Here is a convenient scenic drive that offers the same attractions as others that are much longer and farther out of town. Shultz Pass once served as a shortcut from settlements in the eastern part of the Flagstaff area to downtown. Today, it plays an important role as the quickest route to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for the peace and quiet of the national forest. This drive provides easy access to great views of the San Francisco Peaks, cool ponderosa pine forests, lots of hiking trails, and picturesque picnic spots where you can spend the day or set up camp. In the fall it has a good display of colorful aspens and there is even a good chance you’ll see some of the resident elk, mule deer, or other animals.

You can drive it in your car, pedal it on your mountain bike or even ride it on horseback. However you choose to visit this popular area, you’ll no doubt find others doing the same Please show them the same consideration you would like to be shown in return.

Drive north from Flagstaff about 2 miles on US-180. Just beyond the Museum of Northern Arizona, turn east on FR-420. Follow this route up and over Shultz Pass to US-89 where you’ll turn right for the return trip to Flagstaff.