Hike and Explore

Willow Bend is located within Coconino County’s , Elizabeth “Liz” C. Archuleta, Park. Certified as “backyard wildlife habitat” by the National Wildlife Federation, the gardens feature a small pond and plants native to the Colorado Plateau — unique communities such as desert scrub, meadow, forest, and a rainwater terrace garden.

From Willow Bend you can access the Flagstaff Urban Trail System along the Rio de Flag. Stop in and visit before your hike to plot your trip on our new 3-D relief map; check out some binoculars and field guides and see what wildlife and birds have been spotted recently.

This section of the Rio de Flag is perfect for a short hike especially for families with children, with lush riparian areas that provide great wildlife habitat.

At the start of the hike the Rio slices through ancient limestone cliffs on one side and recent lava flows on the other. A one mile hike through the canyon leads to a wetlands area.

Willow Bend is a classic urban wildlife corridor, serving as a convenient launching point from nearby retail outlets to natural surroundings. Within walking distance to the north are many new shops including Whole Foods, Wildflower Bread Company, REI, Chico’s, and Pita Jungle. After shopping or a lunch break, drop in for a hike and tour!