Did you know?
– Flagstaff is the 2nd highest located city in the US (with a population over 25,000)
– Pluto was discovered at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff.
– Flagstaff is located in the world’s largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest.
We stayed a cozy cabin rental. There are couple of local cats who will come by for a quick pet. Breakfast is included and is the perfect place to stay for a rustic cabin feel. 
6355 N. Highway 180, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
The lodge is located close to the birch forest. This is the location for family photos.
This is remote and we almost turned around when suddenly the birch trees appeared. I followed the instructions below.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arizona/waterline-road-trail
Take US-89 about 12 miles north of city center. Turn left directly across from the turn to Sunset Crater. The left turn is on to a Forest Access Road (FR 420). Take this ½ mile to a T and turn right onto FR 522. This goes 4.6 miles on a very bumpy, some areas washboard grated, ascent. Road is narrow with areas to pull out every few 100 yards in case another car is coming the opposite direct. This was a little nerve wracking as you can’t see ahead very far. I wouldn’t do this again without AWD or 4WD. After 4.6 miles of painfully slow driving you come to a pretty clearing of yellow flowers and grass = Locket Meadow. Signs take you to day parking, which is free and located near an outhouse.
Be sure to take advantage of all that Flagstaff has to offer. The downtown is quaint and perfect for bringing out your festive holiday spirit.
Take a stroll with your hot tea or chocolate and enjoy the lights.
If you are looking for a holiday gift that is unique and one of kind then stop in the local shops. Check out local artists at: https://oldtownshops.net/
120 N Leroux St, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, United States
Round off your trip with a hike into Coconino National Forest lava cave. It is often crowded to be prepared to practice your patience. The further into the cave the crowd thins out. It is a warm hike so bring water.
Location: About 14 miles north of Flagstaff on paved highways and graveled Forest Roads. Travel time is about 45 minutes.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55122&actid=102
One of our favorite watering holes:
It’s not just about the altitude it’s all about the attitude.
928-779-2739
5 S. San Francisco St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86001