Elk are abundant in the Flagstaff area and are a frequent sight throughout the surrounding high-elevation forests. These majestic animals, specifically the Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus canadensis), represent a thriving, managed population that is well-established across northern Arizona. Their presence is a result of successful conservation efforts that restored the species to its native range in the state.
Geographic Distribution and Common Sightings
Elk are frequently encountered in the expansive Coconino National Forest, which surrounds Flagstaff and provides their preferred habitat of ponderosa pine forests, mixed conifer stands, and open mountain meadows. Their distribution is closely tied to seasonal changes, with herds moving between higher and lower elevations to find food and avoid deep snow. The San Francisco Peaks herd utilizes high-elevation areas during the summer months.
Many of the most reliable viewing opportunities occur along the Lake Mary Road corridor, which cuts through prime elk habitat. Locations like Mormon Lake and Lower Lake Mary often host large herds, especially near dawn and dusk when the animals are most active and move out into open areas to graze. During the winter, elk often transition to lower elevation habitats dominated by pinyon-juniper woodlands, seeking areas where snow depth is less restrictive.
While they primarily inhabit forest environments, elk sightings within Flagstaff’s city limits are not uncommon, particularly in green spaces or during drought conditions when they seek out urban water sources. The migratory portion of the herds west of Flagstaff travels an average of 42 miles between their summer and winter ranges.
History of Elk Reintroduction in Arizona
The elk currently found near Flagstaff are not descendants of the original native Arizona population, which was a distinct subspecies known as the Merriam’s elk (Cervus elaphus merriami). This native elk was completely extirpated from Arizona by around 1900, primarily due to unregulated hunting and competition with livestock from early settlers.
In 1913, an effort led by the Winslow Elks Lodge initiated the reintroduction of elk to Arizona, using the Rocky Mountain elk subspecies (Cervus canadensis nelsoni) from Yellowstone National Park. The initial shipment involved 83 animals released near Chevelon Creek, which formed the foundation of the current thriving population. Additional transplants from Yellowstone were made in the following years to other parts of the state, including areas near Williams and Kingman.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) currently manages the state’s elk population, which has grown to an estimated 35,000 to 60,000 animals statewide. This management involves regulated hunts, which are implemented to control population numbers and maintain habitat quality.
Safety Guidelines for Observing Elk
Elk are large, powerful wild animals, and maintaining a respectful distance is the most important safety rule for observers. Visitors should stay at least 100 feet away from all elk, or approximately the length of two school buses, to ensure the animals do not perceive a threat. Using binoculars or a telephoto lens allows for safe observation without approaching too closely.
Specific times of the year require extra caution, especially during the breeding season, known as the rut, which occurs in September and October. Bull elk are aggressively protective of their harems during this time and can be highly dangerous to human observers. Similarly, cow elk are fiercely protective of their newborn calves, which are typically born in late May and early June. Never attempt to approach or touch a calf, as the mother is always nearby and ready to defend her young.
Feeding wild elk is prohibited and dangerous, as it causes them to lose their natural fear of humans and can lead to aggressive behavior. A major hazard near Flagstaff is the risk of elk-vehicle collisions, especially on major forest roads like Lake Mary Road and Interstate 40, particularly after dark. Motorists should drive slowly and remain vigilant for elk crossing the roadway to prevent serious accidents.