Out of this world sights along Observatory Mesa Trail

<i>Lisa Viotti/NHO</i><br>
The stump of a fallen tree greets hikers along Observatory Mesa Trail in Flagstaff.

<i>Lisa Viotti/NHO</i><br> The stump of a fallen tree greets hikers along Observatory Mesa Trail in Flagstaff.

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. - The Observatory Mesa Trail offers an easy to moderate 3.2 mile trek that will take less than two hours in good weather. During a recent hike, the weather was slightly cold.

The trail still had mud and remnants of snow on the ground. Flagstaff nature photographer Lisa Viotti said a number of trails split off from this one so hikers can make it an all day hike or get lost if not careful. An Internet report states that hikers can take the trail to the far west and then walk along the forest service roads with 9012L looping back into town.

"I did not see any other people on the trail, but it would be a fantastic option for runners due to the elevation increase," she said.

Indeed. The trail is known to be used by hikers, runners and bikers.

The trail only gains about 450 feet, but it's mostly toward the beginning of the trail. After the three-quarter mile marker, the trail levels off. Most of the grade is covered by pine trees making for a forest setting.

The Observatory Mesa Trail is part of the Flagstaff Urban Trail System, which is known for giving hikers a way to see the city. The trail is thus named because it explores the area near Lowell Observatory. The city of Flagstaff built the trail in 1894 to get Percival Lowell to bring the observatory here. The plan obviously worked.

While Viotti didn't see any wildlife on the trail, it is known for birds, bats and other wildlife. Viotti noted that the trail has a lot of "wildlife trees." This refers to dead trees that are left for habitation of wildlife and insects to populate the shelter.

"I am sure that in warmer days this trail is excellent," she said.

Dogs are permitted on the trail.

Flagstaff Parks and Recreation is responsible for keeping the trail up. The trail is well maintained with easy access.

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