About

Leroux Spring , located at the base of the San Francisco Peaks at 8000', is one of Flagstaff's most historically notable natural features. This perennial spring was used by Native Americans for centuries before being "discovered" by Antoine Leroux's Sitgreaves Expedition in 1851. Water from the springs was heavily used by the burgeoning Flagstaff population and Fort Valley farmers for the next hundred years. The US Forest Service purchased the springs and its water in 1971, and along with the community volunteers, restored about half of its natural flow in 2013. Today, visitors can enjoy the diverse wildlife and plants that inhibit the site since its restoration. 

Leroux Spring is within 1/4 mile of the Arizona National Scenic Trail. 

What You'll See

The springs support tremendous biodiversity, particular in the arid high desert of northern Arizona. With restoration of its riparian and wetland features, this site could provide quality habitat for a number of wildlife species, including birds, bats, and amphibians. 

Watch for a diversity of songbirds, turkey, and deer. Visitors should keep an eye out for amphibians such as tiger salamanders and Woodhouse toads that may be returning to the spring after its recent restoration. 

Getting There

The spring is an easy 1-mile walk from Snowbowl Rd. From Flagstaff, take Highway 180 to Snowbowl Rd. (right turn). Go 1-mile up Snowbowl Rd. Where the road takes a sharp right, go straight onto the dirt road, and park to the side of the "road closed" sign. Proceed on foot, and follow the roadbed as it contours around the right edge of a meadow (north, then west). After about half a mile, take the drainage on your right that leads to the hillslope spring." 

 

Helpful Tips

Amenities 

None. 

Access Info

Hike-in access only (approximately 1 mile). Winter access may require snowshoes or skis. 


Contact 

Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff Ranger District

(928)526-0866