Timeline
16:07
Grab an early bite at La Fonda Mexican Restaurant. It is busy most times, so arriving early helps you avoid a long wait. The restaurant is open until 21:00, so you have plenty of time before the evening starts.
16:52
Head to Mount Elden. The Elden Lookout Trail is the most popular route, scaling 2800 ft from the base near Hwy 89 to the summit. The trailhead is accessible from the highway, making it a straightforward start to your ascent.
17:37
Stand at the lookout tower at the summit. This is your moment to watch the sun set toward the WSW. The view looks down on the entire city, offering a panoramic perspective of Flagstaff as the light fades.
18:37
Return to La Fonda Mexican Restaurant for dinner. Since you ate earlier, you can enjoy the authentic dishes and great salsa without the rush. The restaurant remains open until 21:00, allowing you to linger after the sunset.
Local tip
The trail scales 2800 ft, so allow enough time for the climb and descent. The lookout tower at the top provides the best vantage point for the sunset.
Check before you go
- La Fonda Mexican Restaurant is open Mo-Sa 10:00-21:00 and Su 10:00-20:00.
- The Elden Lookout Trail is free and managed by the Coconino National Forest.
- Sunset on 15 January is at 17:37 local time.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Flagstaff (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).