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Travel: Everything grand: Northern Arizona's best kept secrets
Nature playground: Visitors are indulged in water activity at Slide Rock State Park
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Nature playground: Visitors are indulged in water activity at Slide Rock State Park.(Courtesy of Youtube) (Courtesy of Youtube)
Nature playground: Visitors are indulged in water activity at Slide Rock State Park.(Courtesy of Youtube)
Discover more about what the Grand Canyon State in the land of Uncle Sam has to offer, from natural landscapes to cultural sites.
Looking beyond one of the world's wonders, you will find what Arizona, one of the youngest states in the US, is about ' blessed not only by its size but also convenient driving distances to Las Vegas and Los Angeles. And heading to the north of the state is where Arizona also keeps nature's original secret: the red rocks in the Grand Canyon area.
The striking panorama of the Grand Canyon is what led to the nickname of Arizona as the Grand Canyon State. Despite this, there are numerous ways to look at this 48th state in the US, depending on where you stand. Endless desert in the south paired with the striking heat will disappear once you enter the northern half of the state.
Driving up Interstate 17 from the state capital, Phoenix, you will notice the significant decrease of Saguaro cactus and the sudden drop in temperature. Instead, you will find enormous rocks, hiding countless national parks, cold rivers and thick forest. If you happen to visit in winter time you will encounter some white scenes, especially as you get closer to the Grand Canyon.
Arizona has the southern rim of the Grand Canyon, where sunset watching is highly recommended by many travel websites. The canyon is as pretty in winter as it is in summer. Winter visitors should bundle up because temperatures will drop and the air will be as cold as the white snow sitting comfortably on the rocks. But before your arrival there, there are many other wonders you shouldn't miss on the way up.
If you plan to visit the Grand Canyon without wanting to spend the night camping at the national park, Flagstaff is the best choice. Lying amid the great nature of northern Arizona, the largest city in northern Arizona is dubbed the city of seven wonders. The legendary route 66 also runs through Flagstaff. While you are in Flagstaff, why not visit Humphreys and San Francisco peaks, the highest mountain ranges in the state? They provide an alternative to the Grand Canyon when it comes to breathtaking destinations. Located inside the Cococino National Forrest, this spot is best known for skiing and hiking.
Pack your imagination with you and observe the rocks form an entirely different identity as you drive along this area. Bell Rock is the first to be seen when you enter the village of Oak Creek. Courthouse Rock is right next to it. Cathedral Rock is equipped with hiking trails and local legend has it that the formation was created when the Great Spirit watched a couple who were in constant argument with each other. Behind these rocks are a myriad of state and national parks, each as grand as the well-known canyon. Slide Rock State Park features an eight-foot natural slide, a perfect stop for family fun. Oak Creek is the best place to catch falling leaves. Aside from the slippery river, this state park is also popular for hiking, bird watching and fishing and even picnicking.
A little south of Flagstaff, Sedona is where tourists stop upon visiting the Oak Creek Canyon, often described as the smaller cousin of the Grand Canyon. Sedona is also famous for its natural spa and relaxation facilities. Despite its small size, Sedona provides a luxurious experience among the red rock wonders. Otherwise, take the Sedona trolley around, visit the Sedona Heritage Museum and stop by the antique shops. Sedona has also become one of Hollywood's favorite movie settings although seldom credited as a northern Arizona town.
Southern deserts give you the Fata Morgana mirages, but the northern nature gives you real wonders. Peeking in between the red rocks is an iconic Catholic chapel called The Holy Cross. Built on Cococino National Forest land, the chapel was commissioned by local sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude. The design was inspired by the then newly constructed Empire State Building.
At a glance, Tlaquepaque resembles a tourist trap, created just to lure the passersby for impulse spending. However, this charming landmark, which was named after a picturesque suburb of Guadalajara, Mexico, features an endless art 'viewing journey. The art galleries and local boutiques offer jewelry, tapestries, kitchen decorations, furniture, pottery and more. Escape from the modern structured overload by strolling around the area filled with hand-painted walls, statues and fountains. Make time to linger at the old Mexican chapel with its stucco walls, stained glass and handcrafted pews.
Drive down two hours southwest from Sedona to the town that was once the territory's capital before Tucson and Phoenix took over. Historical Prescott is best known for its Old Western feel in the downtown area while the modern part of the city is a popular golf destination. Views around the area are also lavish with Prescott National Forest, with family campground facilities, in the vicinity.
Just as many may have warned you, it is hard to survive in America if you do not own a car. There are many road trips worth the time and driving up I-17 is definitely one of those. Get your camera ready because it is where God left his unfinished sculptures.
