This popular trail system begins in large stands of old-growth ponderosa pine and Gambel oak. The various loops offer a wide variety of seasonal wildflowers, many examples of local birdlife, and frequent wildlife sightings. Visitors enjoy forested glades, broad interior meadows, and scenic views of Mt. Elden, Anderson Mesa and Mormon Mountain.
The system includes five loops. The longest, 5.7-mile Campbell Mesa Loop swings around the northern and eastern perimeter of the mesa, while Anasazi Loop shortcuts the west end of Campbell Mesa Loop to make a 2.7-mile sub-loop.
Continental Loop makes a short 1.8-mile tour to the northwest side of the mesa overlooking Walnut Canyon Lakes, Continental ball fields, and the course of the Rio de Flag. Sinagua Loop takes the shortest jaunt, just over a mile from the trailhead and back.
Walnut Meadows Loop swings 4 miles around the southwest end of the mesa, affording panoramas of Anderson Mesa on the far side of Walnut Canyon and distant Mormon Mountain. From Walnut Meadows Loop, a half-mile connector crosses Old Walnut Canyon Road to the Arizona Trail and Fisher Point.
All five loops of Campbell Mesa trail interconnect with each other and the Campbell Mesa trailhead.
Campbell Mesa lies within a non-motorized use area that provides solitude for visitors and shelter for wildlife. Walkers, hikers, cyclists, skiers, and snowshoers enjoy the trails in all seasons.
General Information
Directions:
USGS Map: Flagstaff East
Location: The Campbell Mesa trail system is located off Forest Road 303, commonly called Old Walnut Canyon Rd. Take the Country Club exit from Interstate 40, Route 66 and North Hwy 89, one mile to Old Walnut Canyon Rd; turn left (Old Walnut goes east, Oakmont goes west at this intersection). Drive approximately mile where you see the sign “Campbell Mesa Recreation Access”. The last 1/2 mile is dirt. Park at the gate but do not block access to the gate. Walk through the gate and up the dirt road approximately 400 feet to the trailhead.
GPS: N35° 11' 58.4154", W-111° 33' 46.4394"
General Notes:
Rating: Easy
Usage: Medium
Best Season: Year Round
Nearest Town: Flagstaff
Operated By: Flagstaff Ranger District - 928-526-0866
Hiking time: Entire trail system: 3-4 hours
Trail Etiquette: Please remember that you share the trail with other users and that trail courtesy and safety is your responsibility. Hikers and mountain bikers should yield the trail to equestrians, and mountain bikers should yield the trail to hikers.
Leave No Trace: Recognize your role in preserving wild lands by practicing these LNT principles: 1) Plan ahead and prepare, 2) Stay on designated trails, 3) Dispose of waste properly, 4) Leave what you find, 5) Minimize campfire impacts, 6) Respect wildlife, 7) Be considerate of other visitors.
