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Fatmans Loop Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 681 Google reviews · Running trail in Flagstaff, Arizona · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Fatmans Loop Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Walking trail featuring scenic overlooks with city views, volcanic rock formations & more.
What runners say about Fatmans Loop Trail
“The trees provided shade, the rocky road was challenging yet rewarding, and the beautiful views made it all the more enjoyable.”
“The trees provided shade, the rocky road was challenging yet rewarding, and the beautiful views made it all the more enjoyable.”
“The trail is well-marked, scenic, and not overly challenging, making it enjoyable for both adults and children.”
Beautiful hiking area! There’s so many trails. Paths are laid out nice so you know exactly where to go and there’s a lot of signs to help you out. My husband and I loved the peaceful environment and the beautiful scenery. There was so many incredible views. We saw some squirrels, rabbits, lizards, and cute birds too.
Great hike! Not many fat men on the trail and there were a couple of tricky spots, but overall it’s a wonderful way to spend an hour. the scenery is gorgeous and on a cool day in December, it was perfect hiking weather.
Beautiful park that seems very quiet and tranquil. Not as busy as some parks. The elevation change definitely is something to get used to. We went on a snowy day, and it was beautiful. I will say it was poorly labeled and easy to fall off track of the trail (on snowy days like when I went).
It is a great easier trial on mount elder. There is signage present but washes can look like the trail at times, so review the route before hand in case. There is some elevation gain and rockyness on the trail, so sturdy shoes are a must. Flagstaff air is pretty dry, so bring plenty of water.
Trail conditions & character
“The trees provided shade, the rocky road was challenging yet rewarding, and the beautiful views made it all the more enjoyable.”
“Also if you are from out of town (like me) make sure you factor in the higher elevation and how that will effect you during the hike.”
“We did this as a quick scenic loop on the day we flew into town, just to shake out the legs.”
“There’s plenty of parking available, which makes access easy even on busy days.”
“The trees provided shade, the rocky road was challenging yet rewarding, and the beautiful views made it all the more enjoyable.”
“Keep in mind there are no restrooms, so plan ahead, and definitely carry enough water, especially in warmer weather.”
“The trail is well-marked, scenic, and not overly challenging, making it enjoyable for both adults and children.”
“The trees provided shade, the rocky road was challenging yet rewarding, and the beautiful views made it all the more enjoyable.”
Plan your run at Fatmans Loop Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websitefs.usda.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM–10 PM |
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