From the Majestic Grand Canyon to the rugged high desert, Arizona offers a wide variety of landscapes, climates and activities!
One of our first exploration trips when we first moved to Arizona was north through Flagstaff and on to the Grand Canyon. The city is situated just south of the San Francisco Peaks which is the highest mountain range in the state. The highest point in Arizona at 12,633 feet, is located about 10 miles north of Flagstaff in Kachina Peaks Wilderness. Flagstaff lies along the historic Route 66 and is home to Northern Arizona University. At 7,000 feet Flagstaff is nestled in Aspens and Ponderosas pines. The Coconino National Forest surrounds the area and provides many scenic views, trails and outdoor recreation opportunities. One can actually enjoy tour distinct seasons here including skiing at the Snowbowl in the winter. We found out quickly that Flagstaff is a popular place for the ‘desert rats’ to escape some of the summer heat to cool off for a few days.
Our travels continued 78 miles to the south rim of the world famous Grand Canyon where we stayed at the historic Bright Angle lodge. This is an treat that everyone should experience. The views of sunset and sunrise over the canyon are breathtaking. We eagerly hiked down in to the canyon for several hours. Remember to bring water and that going down is easier and faster that coming back up! The views are indescribable and are literally transformed with each step you take as your perspective and the lighting change. Photos do not do this landscape justice - you must experience it for yourself.
Over the years, we have traveled back several times always to be amazed at the never ending beauty of this creation. The outings with toddlers prevented extensive hiking but lots of exploring fun. Then came the teenages - there was no way we could keep up with their hiking pace. They would go ahead and wait and by the time we caught up they were ready to go again! Now that it is just Gayr and I, we can enjoy the hikes at our leisurly pace. We hope to one day to hike down to the bottom of the canyon and stay at the rustic cabins in Phantom Ranch.
Another fun trip to the Grand Canyon is to climb aboard the Grand Canyon Railway. This restored 1920’s steam engine driven train departs from the town of Williams (east of Flagstaff) and takes about 2 1/2 hours. The 65 mile trip ends at the south rim where you have several hours to explore before your return trip to Williams. We experienced this journey with a group of friends and had a wonder time as were serenaded by wandering western minstrels, robbed by horsemen who boarded the train (fortunately captured J) and entertained by western comedians.
Much of the eastern portion of northern Arizona are the Hopi and Navajo reservations. The 27,000 square miles of unparalleled beauty includes Canyon de Chelly, Monument Valley, the ageless Window Rock Tribal Park, and Navajo Nation Veteran's Memorial. The Rainbow Natural Bridge, Four Corners Tribal Park, and Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Definitely worth an exploration trip!
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