The Rio de Flag Wetlands along the Flagstaff Urban Trail System are centrally located and see many visitors. Waterfowl are commonly found in the ponds, while riparian and wetland birds enjoy stream habitats. Waterfowl, wetland- riparian- forest songbirds, raptors, marsh birds, elk, Abert’s squirrels, and fox all inhabit the area.

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. The lush riparian area provides great wildlife habitat, which is why it has been designated an Arizona Watchable Wildlife Site.

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, Chicos, and Pita Jungle. After shopping or a lunch break, drop in for a hike and tour!

The Friends of the Rio de Flag (FoRio) are individuals and organizations that support the preservation and restoration of the natural beauty and beneficial functions of the Rio de Flag stream channel.

FoRio promotes the Rio de Flag’s natural stream system as a unique and valuable natural resource, an asset, and an amenity to the City of Flagstaff and the surrounding community.

FoRio promotes the preservation and rehabilitation of all parts of the Rio de Flag and its tributary streams with particular emphasis on sections of the channels that have been disturbed, undergrounded, or abandoned.

The goal of FoRio is to protect, restore, clean up and improve the Rio de Flag and its tributaries to maximize their beauty, educational, recreational, and natural resource values, including the riparian habitats they provide.