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Fatmans Loop Trail No. 25

Fatmans Loop Trail (yes, it's spelled Fatmans without an apostrophe) is part of the Mount Elden Dry Lake Hills Trail System.

For the most part, the Fatmans Loop is an easy walk, although it does have a few short steep sections and keep in mind that the trailhead starts at 6,876 feet. Scenic overlooks of Flagstaff, the city's eastern suburbs and the surrounding countryside make this a good place for a stroll when you have time to stop and enjoy the view. Along the route there are a number of interesting rock formations that bear witness to Mt. Elden's volcanic origins. One of these is a bit of a tight squeeze, hence the trail's name.

The area through which this trail leads supports a diverse community of plant species including upland trees such as white fir and ponderosa pine. Shrubs and smaller trees more usually associated with lower altitudes are also present. Among these are cliff rose, alligator juniper and broadleaf yucca. Wildlife you may encounter on this trail includes Abert's squirrels, pygmy nuthatches, mule deer and grey foxes along with more commonly encountered animals such as Steller's jays and ravens.

This trail provides access to the Elden Lookout Trail which continues two miles and a 2,404 feet gain from the parking lot to the summit of Mt. Elden.

Current Conditions
Dogs must be on a leash at all times, and owners must pick up after their pets. DO NOT leave bags of poop from your pets along the trail/trailhead. If your pet defecates, you must bag the poop and take it with you—not leaving it for picking up later. If you do not want to do this, do not bring your pet on these trails.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

25

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trailhead Elevation: 6,874 ft.
  • Elevation Gain: 600 ft.
  • Length: 2.5 mile loop
  • Time: 1-1.5 hours
  • Interactive Topo Map: Fatmans Loop Trail No. 25 (connects with Mt Elden Trail No. 4 to complete the loop)

Open year-round.

  • No motorized vehicles on the trail.
  • Dogs must always be on a leash, and owners must pick up after their pets. DO NOT leave bags of poop from your pets along the trail/trailhead for picking up later. If your pet defecates, you must bag the poop and take it with you. If you do not want to do this, do not bring your pet on these trails.

Getting There

Parking

The parking lot can accommodate about 30-40 vehicles.

Directions

USGS Map: Flagstaff East

GPS (Map): 35°13'49.1"N 111°34'45.2"W

Location: Near the Flagstaff Mall on Highway 89 in east Flagstaff.

Access: From the Flagstaff Mall, drive northeast on U.S. Highway 89 about half a mile (past Flagstaff Ranger Station) to a trailhead parking lot on the northern side of Hwy 89.

Additional Information

Operated By

Flagstaff Ranger District: 928-526-0866

Last updated June 13th, 2025