Pet-friendly Flagstaff: Restaurants, hikes & things to do

Whether you’re a local or you’re house sitting as a pet sitter in Flagstaff, you’ll be happy to know there’s loads to do with your four-legged friend. In fact, USA Today named Flagstaff the best city for a dog-friendly vacation in the country! With more dog-friendly restaurants, bars, and trails than most places, it’s the perfect destination for outdoor adventures with your pup. Read on to discover everything you need to know about pet-friendly Flagstaff!

Dog-friendly restaurants in Flagstaff

You and your four-legged foodie will be spoilt for choice with this selection of dog-friendly restaurants in Flagstaff, AZ! Most welcome pups on their outdoor patios – a great giveaway is a water bowl waiting by the door. Remember that dog-friendly policies can change, so it’s best to double-check before strolling in with your pooch. 

Satchmo’s

This New Orleans style cafe serves slow-smoked BBQ dishes and hearty gumbo. Head to the dog-friendly patio where your pup’s bound to get plenty of attention – and don’t forget to grab some frozen “dog sauce” to take home for a summer treat.

Location: 2320 N Fourth St, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Mother Road Brewing Company

Known for its “radical hospitality”, this relaxed, dog-friendly brewery is a must for craft beer lovers. The spacious patio welcomes furry friends, and you can enjoy sidecars, entrées, and a robust selection of classic and limited-edition brews.

Location: 7 S Mikes Pike St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Madrez Cafe

Found on the iconic Route 66, this friendly cafe is the perfect brekkie stop for you and your best bud. Grab a table on the dog-friendly patio and enjoy waffles, burritos, or bagels while your pooch soaks up the morning sun.

Location: 1420 E Rte 66 #105, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Wildflower

With plenty of outdoor space for pups and their pawrents, Wildflower is a go-to for high-end sandwiches, salads, and baked goodies.

Location: 530 Piccadilly Dr, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

The Oakmont

Relax on the covered patio overlooking the golf course – complete with water bowls for your pup. The Oakmont’s menu changes with the seasons, but you can expect sandwiches, pasta, salads, and drool-worthy desserts year-round.

Location: 2380 N Oakmont Dr, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

The Toasted Owl Cafe

Dig into classic breakfast dishes on the 1200 sq. ft. patio, where Fido can even enjoy their own dog-friendly meal! Expect queues out the door on most days (always a good sign!), and plenty of veggie and vegan options.

Location: 12 S Mikes Pike St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

The Northern Pines Restaurant 

Here, you’ll find a clean, dog-friendly patio complete with dog bowls. They serve all-American comfort food all day long, including chicken-fried steak, French onion soup, and pot roast – yum!

Location: 2200 E Butler Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Tourist Home Flagstaff Cafe

Come here for locally roasted coffee, brunch cocktails, and a Southwestern-inspired menu. With plenty of dog-friendly seating outside and the best burritos in town, we can’t think of a better way to start your day!

Location: 52 S San Francisco St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Josephine’s Restaurant 

For an upscale evening out with your canine companion, head to the beautifully landscaped patio at Josephines. Enjoy American cuisine and a glass from their extensive wine list while your pooch lounges nearby.

Location: 503 N Humphreys St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Dog-friendly hikes in Flagstaff

As a true mountain town, Flagstaff is all about the great outdoors, so it makes sense that dogs are more than welcome! From easy strolls around town to dog-friendly trails through the mountains, there’s plenty to explore together. Just remember to keep your pup leashed and pack water!

Buffalo Park Loop

This 2-mile loop is found right in town, with spectacular views of the San Francisco Peaks. The wide, flat, hard-packed trail makes it a great option for senior dogs or those looking for a gentle walk.

Location: Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA

Fatman’s Loop Trail

You’ll pass through ponderosa pines and volcanic rock formations on this moderate 2.5-mile hike on Mt. Elden. The ‘Fatman's Loop’ part is where the trail squeezes through a tight spot between rocks – a great photo op!

Location: 5098 US-89, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Aspen Nature Loop

Located near the Arizona Snowbowl, this is a prime spot for walking as the colors change for fall. The 2.7-mile loop winds through pine forest and aspen groves, and while it’s relatively easy, the high elevation can make it feel more challenging.

Location: Arizona 86001, Humphrey's Peak Trail, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Red Mountain Trail

This short and scenic 1.5-mile trail leads through a striking volcanic landscape. There’s not much shade and the cinder sand can get hot, so it’s best enjoyed on cooler days.

Location: Left at milepost 247, US-180, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Kendrick Park Watchable Wildlife Trail

Choose between a 0.25-mile stroll or a 1.5-mile loop, both of which offer gorgeous mountain views and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Location: 6325 W Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS)

Spanning over 50 miles, this network of interconnected trails takes you through Flagstaff’s city limits and beyond. It’s great for walking, biking, or even cross-country skiing, and leashed dogs are welcome throughout. Pick up a FUTS map at the Visitor Center to plan your route.

Location: Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Kachina Trail

This 10.2-mile out-and-back trail is one of the most beautiful in the area. Expect stunning forest views and peaceful stretches perfect for an active pup.

Location: N Snow Bowl Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Elden Lookout Trail

This steep hike has significant elevation gain (2,400 feet), but you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Flagstaff from the top of Mount Elden. Only recommended for fit dogs (and pawrents!) who are acclimated to the altitude.

Location: 4870, 5098 US-89, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Dog-friendly parks in Flagstaff

If your pup prefers playtime to dog-friendly trails, Flagstaff has a couple of well-loved bark parks designed just for them. Both offer plenty of off-leash space for four-legged furries to run, sniff, and socialize to their heart’s content. 

Thorpe Bark Park

Nestled among shady pine trees, Thorpe Bark Park has 1.5 acres of space that’s made for large and small dogs. There’s also agility equipment, benches, and covered seating for humans to relax while their pups play.

Location: 788 N Thorpe Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

BarkMaster off-leash Dog Park

This quiet off-leash dog park is located inside Bushmaster Park. A fence surrounds the perimeter and there are two separate sides for small and large pups plus picnic tables, water bowls, trash bins, and even a doggy fountain – everything you need for a great outing!

Location: 3150 N Alta Vista Dr, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Dog-friendly activities in Flagstaff

Whether you’re wandering through downtown, sightseeing, or exploring its creative side, there’s no shortage of dog-friendly things to do in Flagstaff. Here are some of the best ways to experience the city together – leash in hand.

Start at Flagstaff Visitor Center

Start your adventure here! Located in the historic train depot on Route 66, the Visitor Center is the perfect first stop for anyone looking for dog-friendly places in Flagstaff, AZ. Pick up maps for self-guided tours and get insider tips on dog-friendly restaurants, trails, and local attractions.

Location: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Stroll through Historic Downtown, Flagstaff

The historic district is a great place for a dog-friendly stroll – it’s not too busy and lots of the stores have treats and water bowls for pups. You’ll find everything from bookstores to boutiques, plus plenty of dog-friendly cafes, bars, and restaurants to rest your paws.

Location: 6 E Aspen Ave # 200, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Go stargazing near the Lowell Observatory

While four-legged fluffs can’t join you inside the Lowell Observatory, the Mars Hill area is perfect for a peaceful, starlit stroll. Pack a blanket, enjoy the cool mountain air, and take in Flagstaff’s famous dark skies with your furry friend.

Location: Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Hit the trails around the Arizona Snowbowl

Pups can’t ride the chairlifts here, but they’re welcome on the hiking trails so long as they’re kept on a leash. Only a 20-minute drive from town, this scenic area has sweeping views and quiet trails that are beautiful all year-round.

Location: 9300 N Snow Bowl Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Do the Flagstaff Brewery Trail

Since Flagstaff is known as Arizona’s Craft Brew City, doing the brewery trail makes total sense. Visit all eight of the breweries on the trail (five of which are dog-friendly) and collect stamps in your digital passport to redeem a souvenir pint glass.

Dog-friendly stops include:

• Historic Brewing Company: 4366 E Huntington Dr, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
• Wanderlust Brewing Company: 1519 N Main St #102, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
• Mother Road Brewing Company: 7 S Mikes Pike St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
• Dark Sky Brewing Co.: 117 N Beaver St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
• Grand Canyon Brewing + Distillery: 1800 S Milton Rd Ste #11, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Go on a Public Art Tour

There are more than forty public art pieces in Flagstaff, all inspired by local culture and the natural surroundings. Download the Public Art Walking Tour map to see over 20 works within a 1.5-mile loop – all easy to explore with your pup by your side.

Starting location: 1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Visit the Arboretum at Flagstaff

Spanning 200 acres, this peaceful conservation area welcomes leashed dogs. Spend a nature-filled day together wandering through gardens, greenhouses, and scenic trails featuring over 750 plant species.

Location: 4001 S Woody Mountain Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86005

Go to Heritage Square

Located in the heart of historic downtown, Heritage Square is a hub for live music, festivals, and events throughout the year. It’s a great spot to people-watch with your four-legged friend.

Location: Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Tips for pet parents in Flagstaff

• Keep an eye out for wildlife. Elk, deer, coyotes, and even the occasional skunk or porcupine roam near popular trails. Stay alert, especially at dawn and dusk, and don’t let your pup wander into the woods.
• Expect pine needles everywhere. Between the trails, parks, and backyards, Flagstaff’s ponderosa pines shed a lot. Keep a towel handy in the car for brushing off paws (and fur!) after walks.
• Sort your vacation pet care. Whether you’re heading out of town for the weekend or an extended stay, find a loving in-home sitter who’ll care for your pet family like their own. Click below to find out more!

Tips for pet sitters in Flagstaff 

• Watch the altitude. At around 7,000 feet, Flagstaff sits high in the mountains. If you’re not used to higher elevations, take hikes slowly and make sure to drink plenty of water.
• Use the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS). This 50+ mile network of connected trails runs right through the city, making it perfect for daily dog walks without ever leaving town. Pick up a FUTS map at the Visitor Center.
• Experience Flagstaff as a house sitter. Fancy exploring Flagstaff with a furry friend as a tour guide? Click below to find out how to start your house sitting adventure.