Tom Moody Extended Loop

The Tom Moody Extended Loop is a popular hike in the Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Reserve, an area of natural and cultural significance just 15 minutes from downtown Flagstaff. This reserve protects a sensitive riparian habitat, a gorgeous canyon, and extensive collections of petroglyphs, which the Tom Moody Extended Loop takes you to.

The preserve is inhabited by owls, elk, bats, turkey, eagles, and more. It’s a designated Watchable Wildlife Site, which means you can hide behind the blind near the reserve’s pond to spot animals. Picture Canyon is also one of the top birding sites in northern Arizona.

Aside from its natural importance, Picture Canyon is an area of cultural and historical significance. Inhabited by the Northern Sinagua people from 700-1300 AD, the canyon holds the most concentrated collection of petroglyphs in the area. The 126+ panels depict archers, mammals, turtles, birds, and geometric designs.

The Tom Moody Extended Loop is the longer version of the park’s main trail, which offers interpretive signage, great canyon views, and the chance to inspect the petroglyphs. As with all sensitive sites, make sure to stay on the marked trails, keep pets leashed and on the trail, and don’t touch the petroglyphs.

From the trailhead, the route heads towards the Rio de Flag. At the fork, stay right and then hike north along the river to the waterfall overlook, a beautiful picture spot. There’s a petroglyph overlook next to the waterfall. Follow the route to the T-junction, and then take a left onto AZT-Mount Elden.

Stay right and then cross the Rio, arriving at the main petroglyphs viewing area. Take your time inspecting these ancient drawings before continuing on the Tom Moody Loop Trail, bearing left at the next fork. You’ll go straight through the intersection with the Arizona Trail and follow the route back to the trailhead.

Once you’re done with your loop, feel free to check out the viewing blind at the pond or return to your favorite canyon viewpoints before leaving the area.

Hiking Route Highlights

Petroglyphs

The Tom Moody Extended Loop reveals the petroglyphs of the Northern Sinagua people, who inhabited this area between 700 and 1300 AD. This is the most concentrated collection of petroglyphs in the region, with images depicting different mammals, birds, people, and geometric designs. The petroglyphs are easily appreciated from this loop trail, which also offers an excellent view of Picture Canyon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Picture Canyon from Flagstaff?

Picture Canyon is only about 15 minutes from downtown Flagstaff.

Is the Picture Canyon hike long?

The Tomy Moody Extended Loop is 3.7mi long, but there are other trails in the reserve you can enjoy, too