Coconino National Forest
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Coconino National Forest is located in the northern part of Arizona and covers over 1.8 million acres.
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Summary
The forest is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including canyons, mountains, and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the main reasons to visit Coconino National Forest is to explore its many hiking trails. These trails range from easy to challenging, and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some popular hikes include the West Fork Trail, which takes visitors through a picturesque canyon, and the Humphreys Peak Trail, which leads to the highest peak in Arizona.
Another point of interest in Coconino National Forest is the ancient ruins of the Sinagua people. These ruins can be found at the Wupatki National Monument, which is located within the forest. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient dwellings, as well as learn about the history and culture of the Sinagua people.
In addition to hiking and exploring the ancient ruins, Coconino National Forest also offers opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. The forest is home to a variety of animals, including elk, deer, and coyotes, as well as over 200 species of birds.
The best time of year to visit Coconino National Forest depends on what activities you are interested in. Spring and fall are popular times for hiking, as the weather is cooler and the foliage is changing. Summer is a great time for camping and fishing, while winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing.
Overall, Coconino National Forest is a beautiful and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in hiking, history, or wildlife, this forest is definitely worth a visit.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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