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Easy • 2.9 miles • Out and Back • 60-90 minutes

An easy 2.9-mile out-and-back that follows the rim of Walnut Canyon before descending into Sandy's Canyon, about 5.5 miles southeast of Flagstaff off Lake Mary Road (Forest Highway 3). You'll get views of the San Francisco Peaks and sandstone cliffs along the way — a mix of easy walking and scenery that works well for preschoolers through tweens. Elevation gain is about 305 feet on a rocky surface; plan 60 to 90 minutes, and remember the descent into the canyon is the climb back out. Shade is only partial. Partway in, the sandstone cliffs are a climbing area locals call The Pit, and watching roped climbers is half the entertainment for kids. Free trailhead parking. Open dawn to dusk in spring, summer, and fall, and it's free. A family-friendly outing, with the rocky tread and the climb out as the honest work.