Flagstaff

Are you looking for a special place to visit with plenty of nostalgia, charm, and natural beauty? Head north to an elevation of 7,000 feet where the ponderosa pines stand tall against the majestic San Francisco Peaks, and you'll find flagstaff, Arizona.

In the heart of the Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff is home to the Arizona Snowbowl, Northern Arizona University, Sunset Crater, Walnut Canyon, Wupatki National Monument, Riordan Mansion, and much more.

In 1876, long after the Native American Sinagua left this rugged frontier, a group of young men from Boston arrived to settle in the area. While camping at the base of the San Francisco Peaks, they stripped a young pine tree of its bark and branches and hung a flag from its top in celebration of the fourth of July. The pine tree became a landmark for the area, and travelers thereafter identified the area by the pine tree—the flag staff.

In 1880, when the Atlantic & Pacific Railroad began laying track west from Albuquerque, supply camps were set up along the lines to outfit and entertain construction workers, One such collection of tents and log cabins was established in Flag Staff; and, in 1881, the citizens named their new little hamlet Flagstaff.

On August 1, 1882, the railroad reached Flagstaff, and the town became a regular stop. Since beef could be affordably shipped to market via rail, cattle ranchers began to settle the open ranges.

By the end of the decade, Flagstaff was one of Arizona's largest towns, with a population of 1,500. It had a well-developed business district, and homes were sprouting up all over. Residents realized that they needed a plan and organization to manage their rapid growth; so, in 1894, Flagstaff became an incorporated town.

In February, Flagstaff hosts its annual Winterfest. Whether you like outdoor adventure, a fun night out, tall tales of the west, or 18th-century works of poet Robert Burns, you'll enjoy the many events and activities of Winterfest.

Form more information about Flagstaff or Winterfest, call the Flagstaff Visitors Center at 800-217-2367 or visit www.flagstaffarizona.org.