Schultz Pass Road Scenic Drive

Here's a scenic drive that offers many of the same attractions as longer drives farther out of town. Shultz Pass once served as a short cut from settlements in the eastern part of the Flagstaff area to downtown. Today, it plays an important role as the quickest route to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for the peace and quiet of the national forest. This drive provides easy access to great views of the San Francisco Peaks, cool ponderosa pine forests, lots of hiking trails, picturesque picnic spots where you can spend the day or set up camp. In the fall it has a good display of colorful aspens and there is even a good chance you'll see some of the resident elk, mule deer or other animals.

You can drive it in your high-profile vehicle, pedal it on your mountain bike or even ride it on horseback. Take a picnic and spread your picnic blanket by Schultz Tank (at the Schultz Pass Trailhead), where you can often see ducks and birds playing and hunting around the water. Wander around the tank for beautiful Peaks views, or take a longer hike up Sunset Trail. Extend your tour by continuing up to Lockett Meadow before returning back to the turn-off to U.S. 89 for your return to Flagstaff.

However you choose to visit this popular area, you'll no doubt find others doing the same. Please show them the same consideration you would like to be shown in return.

At a Glance