The romantic sentiment that comes with castles didn’t get left behind as early settlers traveled to the Wild West. The open land, pink sunsets, beautiful land formations and free spirit invited the opportunity for dreams to come true. Just as medieval castles were built to provide family protection, comfort and luxury, while making a statement to those outside the walls; these selected castles in Arizona are no different. Behind each castle wall is a story of the love, labor and an aspiration to make a dream come true.

1. Mystery Castle

Mystery Castle, Phoenix AZ Photo by Kaila White

In the 1930′s, Seattle native, Boyce Gully, moved out to Arizona without his family after being diagnosed with tuberculosis in effort to save  them from the suffering all would endure due to his illness. He was told he only had six months to live, which turned out to be 15 years. Gully was sad about having left his family and had decided to built a castle for the daughter hoping to show her how much he really loved her. Using recycled building materials and random objects like wheels and spokes, Gully had successfully built his “little princess” a castle stone by stone. This castle consists of 18 rooms, 13 fireplaces and is over 8,000 square feet. A year after news of his death, his wife and daughter, Mary Lou, moved into the castle. To this day, Mary Lou still lives in the castle built by the father who loved her so much. Visitors can take a tour of the castle, though tours times are lessening as she now in her 70′s. This grandeur statement of affection holds intimations of a father who wanted his daughter to know him; yet the need to protect her from his illness was greater.

2. Montezuma Castle

This well-preserved cliff dwelling was once the home to the Pre-Columbian Sinagua people dating back to about 700AD. Located on the way to Sedona near Camp Verde, Montezuma Castle has been a home to many for generations. This five-story stone and mortar homestead contains 20 rooms and would house about 50 people at a time. Its high postition in the cliffs offered the cliff dwellers protection from both enemies and the elements. Though it is believed that the area was briefly abandoned due to the ash form the Sunset Crater Volcano. It was last occupied in 1425AD and the reasons for abandonment of their habitation sites are not yet known; but warfare, drought, and clashes with the newly-arrived Yavapai people have been suggested.

Follow I-17 to exit 293 (4 miles north of the exit for Montezuma Castle). Continue through the towns of McGuireville and Rimrock, following the signs for four miles to the entrance to the Well. There is no fee to enter Montezuma Well.

 3.  Copenhaver Castle

This castle is a private resident located on the south side of Camelback Mountain, a popular place for residents to hike as it is a beautiful mountain located in the heart of the city.It was modeled after an old Moorish fortress in Spain that the designer and builder had remembered seeing in a movie when he was a child. The castle was built over a twelve-year period by Phoenix orthodontist, Dr. Mort Copenhaver.
Dr. Copenhaver was known to have donated money to missions in Mexico, and in exchange some of the Hispanic missionaries had come and helped him with building the castle. Dental patients also bartered construction projects for dental services. The interior of the 7,000 square foot castle was built using eight levels, with ten balconies providing a great view of the valley. It has twenty rooms, including five bedrooms, seven and one half bathrooms, four fireplaces, and three garages and carports. The living room has a seventeen foot waterfall that cascades above the fireplace. The Great room features a spa that seats twenty people. Above it is a retractable roof for views of the famous Arizona blue sky, or a wonderful view of the stars. The dungeon can be accessed through one of the many secret passageways in the home, and a helicopter pad is located on the roof for easier travel to the airport. There is a drawbridge, and a moat, and almost everything one would expect from a moorish castle. There’s even slots to shoot arrows through. The massive stone walls and solid construction of the building is a guarantee of its ability to still be standing on Camelback Mountain centuries from now.

5050 E. Red Rock Road Phoenix, Arizona

4. Sibley Castle

Sibley Castle located in the Galiuro Mountains of Arizona, About 100 miles southeast of Phoenix in what was once a old mining camp called Copper Creek. The castle is a two story structure which was built around 1908. The home once contained 20 rooms and polished oak floors. E. Roy Sibley was the manager of the Copper Creek Mine and his wife, Belle, was the postmaster at the post office  that was estableished on March 6, 1907. The town consisted of about 500 people, which included a physician, stage line, mansion, and many other buildings, much of which was built on tiers as the town was in a canyon. Today much of the town site remains and can be explored.

Copper Creek, Arizona – Take the road from town up the creek. Accessible by walking.

5. Agua Verde

This castle is a private residence built by Duane Durham. He built this castle for his wife and daughters in Vail, Arizona, which is about southeast of Tucson. Very few people have actually been inside this castle, but it is rumored to have extraordinary decor as each room has a differnt theme. There is a train that travels around the perimeter that the children once rode on. Though this house is not one visitors can tour, it is quite beautiful to see. It’s perched at the top of a hill, mysterious and ripe for legendary tales to be made.

6. Castles -n- Coasters

Alright, so maybe this isn’t a real castle, but this is a favorite among the kiddos. Castles and Coasters is located in central Phoenix and is a great place for the kids to have an afternoon doing their thing. From miniature golf and bumper boats to rides and even a full scale roller coaster, Castles -n- Coasters is sure to be a good time for the whole family.

9445 Metro Parkway East
Phoenix, AZ 85051
602-997-7575

Thanks to http://www.dupontcastle.com/ for the collection of castles and information.

View Northern Arizona Wineries Map in a larger map

Did you know that Arizona is home to 40 wineries and vineyards? It’s true. In fact, the Wall Street Journal recently acclaimed the Verde Valley as an emerging hotspot vying for Napa-like status¹. Prescott and the Verde Valley are home to hundreds of acres of vineyards, farmed by five distinct wineries. Go wine tasting in Arizona by taking winery tours to these Verde Valley area wineries, located within an hour’s drive between Prescott and Sedona in towns like Page Springs, Cottonwood and Jerome. Experience the wineries themselves or stay local and check out funky area wine bars where they serve Arizona wines. As the epicenter of Arizona wine country, the Verde Valley offers a tremendous opportunity for tourists and locals to taste some of the country’s best wines right here in one place.

Wineries:

Javelina Leap Winery and Vineyards
Tasting Room Open 11 AM to 5 PM Daily. Located 90 minutes from Prescott just outside Sedona in historic Page Springs valley on
the slopes of a volcanic mountain, overlooking Oak Creek.
1565 North Page Springs Rd, Cornville
(928) 649-2681
www.javelinaleapwinery.com

Page Springs Vineyards & Cellars
Tasting room open daily 11am-6pm. Nestled along the banks of the Verde Valley’s famous Oak Creek. Page Springs vintner Eric Glomski offers visitors unforgettable syrah, petite sirah, and more.
1500 North Page Springs Rd, Cornville
(928) 639-3004
www.pagespringscellars.com

Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery
Enjoy a spacious, gravious and newly renovated tasting room where you can sip wine, eat cheese and chat with the friendly staff. If you find something you love while you’re there, Oak Creek Vineyards offers a VIP Club and wines shipped right to you.
1555 North Page Springs Rd, Cornville
(928) 649-0290
www.oakcreekvineyards.net

Echo Canyon Vineyard and Winery
No scheduled wine tastings but visitors are encouraged to call or email for information. Visit their website for contact information and to order wines online. Located 90 minutes from Prescott.
3222 N Echo Canyon Rd, Cornville
Access via 2 mile dirt road
(928) 634-8122
www.echocanyonwinery.com

Granite Creek Vineyards
Open for tastings Friday-Sunday 1-5pm. Award winning, family owned winery located 20 minutes from Prescott in Chino Valley, Arizona. One of few U.S. 100% Certified Organic wineries.
2515 Road 1 East, Chino Valley
(928) 636-2003
www.granitecreekvineyards.com

Alcantara Vineyards
Tasting room open daily 11am-5pm. Taste 5 of Alcanterra’s outstanding wines. Check out Arizona winery tours and tasting with an outstanding selection of wines, made right here in Arizona.
7500 Alcantara Way, Cottonwood
(928) 649-8463
www.alcantaravineyard.com

Juniper Well Ranch Winery
Tasting room open every weekend from noon to 6PM. Juniper Well Ranch has planted over two acres of vineyards featuring the Spanish Tempranillo grape.  We are also growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Pino Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc and Malbec, many which were first planted in 2004 and harvested in Fall 2008. Enjoy seasonal events, bring a picnic or purchase one of the winery’s cheese plates and enjoy the Fiesta Patio.
10080 W. Tough Country Trail, Skull Valley
(928) 442-3415
www.juniperwellranch.com

Verde Valley Wine Tasting:

Jerome Winery
Located between Prescott and Sedona in historic Jerome, featuring over 30 local wines. Want a good story paired with a good glass of local wine? Head to Jerome Winery just off the main strip.
403 N Clark St, Jerome
(928) 639-9067
www.jeromewinery.com

The Art of Wine
Wine tasting 7 days a week in Uptown Sedona. The Art of Wine is dedicated to selling wines as stunning as the red rock landscape. All of their wines are produced locally.
Pinon Pointe Shops
101 N Hwy 89A, B-9
(877) 903-WINE
www.artowine.com

Arizona Stronghold Vineyards Tasting Room
Tasting Room open 365 days a year.
Enjoy wines in a confortable, relaxing environment while exploring the eclectic shops, galleries, antiques, restaurants and cafes of Historic Old Town Cottonwood.
1023 North Main Street, Cottonwood
(928) 639-2789
www.arizonastrongholdvineyards.com

Pillsbury Wine Company North
Tasting Room Hours: 11am-6pm. Sun.-Wed.; 11am-8pm Thurs.-Sat., closed major holidays.
Serves delicious wines from Pillsbury’s vineyard in Cochise County and local wine from Freitas Vineyard in Cottonwood.
1012 North Main Street, Cottonwood
(928) 639-0646
www.pillsburywinecompany.com

Bitter Creek Winery
Located in historic Jerome. Experience exquisite hand-crafted wines while overlooking the Verde Valley.
240 Hull Ave, Jerome
(928) 634-7033
www.bittercreekwinery.com

¹_{Karp, H. (May 25, 2007), United States of Wine, Wall Street Journal}

Basic Beginnings

General Information

Lay of the Land

Getting to Flagstaff
Most Flagstaff visitors fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport because it is the closest major international airport to Flagstaff. From there, it’s best to rent a car and drive yourself to Flagstaff via I-17,  which is about a 2.5 hour drive. There are a limited amount of flights from Sky Harbor Airport to Flagstaff Airport available, but that is an option. There are shuttle companies that offer daily scheduled trips for about $38 per person each way, while Amtrak has a train station in heart of town as does Greyhound bus service.

Lodging

Flagstaff experiences an influx of Phoenicians trying to beat the summer heat during the months of July – August. Grand Canyon visitors start coming around in May and keep flowing in all the way through October. Then the snow players take it from there during the months of December – February. This town has plenty of hotels, motels, cabins and bed and breakfasts, but it gets booked pretty quickly on holiday weekends, days following a good snow storm or extra hot days in The Valley.  Making plans in advance is recommended especially if you, your family or travel friends have accommodation preferences. Even the hostels get booked up regularly!

Hotels and Motels

A variety of hotels and motels are available all over greater Flagstaff. You’ll find both familiar brand hotel chains and independent properties. Prices range from $75 – $250 per night in the peak months and $50 to $200+ per night in the off-season.

Cabins
Flagstaff is the perfect place to rent a cabin. Flagstaff’s four season weather makes it inviting year round. Cool off  and relax in a summer cabin surrounded by wildflowers with picturesque mountains in the distance. Better yet, stay warm by a crackling fire with a cup of hot cocoa after a day of skiing or sledding in the winter wonderland. Cabins tend to be visitors’ first choice in Flagstaff lodging, so book early if possible.

Bed & Breakfasts

Flagstaff’s charming mountain home atmosphere makes it a perfect place to enjoy staying at a bed and breakfast. Rates vary widely based on the size, amenities offered and demand for these charming inns, but you’ll find anything from $125 per night to $350 per night, based on the season and the style, from simple to luxurious.

Pet-Friendly
Flagstaff is certainly pet-friendly. Several Flagstaff bed & breakfasts, inns, cabins and hotels cater to four-legged family members. Check out this list of dog friendly hotels in Flagstaff, which may or may not be complete, so don’t be afraid to call your hotel or bed & breakfast and ask if Spike or Fluffy can come along.

Dining

How to See Flagstaff…

“Is everyone here young and cool? Even that old man with a white beard acts like he’s 35.” – overheard at Charly’s Pub at the Weatherford Hotel

It’s true. Flagstaff tends to attract people who are looking for adventure. The vibrant spirit often appears as being young at heart – and it’s everywhere. It can’t be helped. From hiking, snowboarding and rock-climbing to Grand Canyon helicopter tours and Colorado River rafting, it all starts in Flagstaff. How do you want to see Flagstaff?

…on a Bicycle Ride Around Town

If you’re planning on staying in town, a bicycle is the perfect way to get around Downtown Flagstaff. That’s what the locals do! There are bike racks everywhere and nothing is far enough to actually need to hop in a car to get to.  In fact, finding a spot to part a vehicle can be quite the chore in this part of town. Rent a bike. You’ll be able to see, experience and interact with more  of everything, guaranteed. There are people from all over the world and all walks of life in the mountain town that you won’t want to miss.

…on a Guided Tour

You won’t want to miss a guided tour of Lowell Observatory. This was where the once so-called planet, Pluto, was discovered. Flagstaff’s fresh mountain air and clear skies make it a wonderful place to explore the Beyond. Other guided tours include the Museum of Northern Arizona, which features a wealth of geological and cultural information about the Southwest; then there is the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, a five-acre park showcasing an extraordinary early 1900s mansion owned by the Riordan family who logged Flagstaff in the city it is today.

Other tours that depart from Flagstaff are tours to the Grand Canyon. Many tours to the Grand Canyon leave from Flagstaff since it is the biggest city near the canyon. Visitors often take helicopter tours, jeep tours, bus tours, river trips or guided hikes. See Flagstaff.com‘s tour guide to get more information and pricing.

…On Foot (Hiking)

Flagstaff offers both easy and challenging hiking, and the reward for those willing to make the effort is a chance to marvel at the beauty of Flagstaff from above,

• Must-Do – Humphrey’s Peak

Humphrey’s is located 14.5 miles northwest to Flagstaff, Arizona. Take US 180 north for 7 miles, then Snowbowl Road (FR 516) for 7.4 miles to the Snowbowl lower parking lot. Find the Humphrey’s trailhead at the north end of the parking lot. All roads are paved.The trail is very well marked until you reach the saddle. The first 3 miles the trail gradually climbs the mountain, then the last 1 3/4 miles it gets steeper and more difficult. There are posts added on the last 3/4 of a mile to help mark the trail. It is very rocky and loose above 12,000 feet. The trail ascends 3 false summits before reaching the true summit. The trail is moderate to difficult, but anybody in some sort of shape can make it without consideration to elevation sickness. Total mileage is approximately 4 3/4 miles.

Trail Length:4.5 miles one way.
Elevation Range: 9,300 to 12,633 feet.
Elevation Gain: 3,333 feet.
Summit Peak: 12,633 feet.
Trail Rating: Strenuous.
Hiking Time: 3 hours one way.
Hiking Season: Late spring to fall.
Winter Permits: Required
Camping:No camping above tree line.

• Local Favorite – Mt. Elden Trails

The summit of Mt. Elden is a 9,299-foot peak on the north edge of Flagstaff. You can hike any of several good trails or drive up a rough road. Wildflowers, a variety of forests, and panoramic views reward those who ascend even part way. A fire-lookout tower marks the summit. Climb the tower, if it’s open, for the best views. On a clear day you’ll see much of north-central Arizona: Oak Creek Canyon and Mormon Lake to the south; the Painted Desert to the east; Humphrey’s Peak, Sunset Crater, and other volcanoes to the north; and Bill Williams Mountain to the west. Flagstaff lies directly below. An eruption of thick, sticky lava created Mt. Elden.
The hiking season runs from May to October, a bit longer for the drier eastern slope. You’ll need to carry water.  Allow at least half a day for a hike to the summit and back; elevation change is 1,300–2,400 feet, depending on the trailhead. Horseback riders and mountain bicyclists can use most of the trail system.

Rating: Moderate
Distance: 2.5 – 3.5 miles
Map and Information: Mt. Elden Trail Guide

 …On a Wall (Rock Climbing)

The Pit (Le Petit Verdon) is one of Flagstaff’s most accessible rock climbing areas for people of all skill levels. Most of the routes are sport but there are a handful of trad routes.

Take I-17 towards Flagstaff. Take the Lake Mary Road Exit. Turn right onto Lake Mary Road, then follow this road approximately 6 miles down. On your left, you will see “Canyon Vista” campground. This is where we are camped at the trailhead to the Pit. Park in the parking lot, trail starts at the end. Go down the small trail, take a right at the fork. You can see the crag from the parking lot and trail. Follow the trail to the other side, there you will see the bolts and pitches.

Flagstaff Temperatures and Precipitation:

Flagstaff receives an average annual snowfall of 99.5 inches
based on the 1st day of each month

Flagstaff Average Clear, Partly Cloudy and Cloudy Days by Month Annual Total

So, there you go! That’s our primer all the basics of visiting Flagstaff. Did we leave anything out? What else would you like to know? Feel fee to comment and we will reply!

Visitors are revving up to travel to North Scottsdale Jan. 15-22

Rev up your 2012 travel plans and come to the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale January 15-22. More than 250,000 classic car lovers from all over the world flock to WestWorld of Scottsdale each year for “the world’s greatest collector car auction”; will you be one of them? Even if you don’t have six figures of bid money burning a hole in your pocket, you can enjoy all that Scottsdale has to offer away from the action of the auction block.  Kick back at one of the area’s resorts or hotels, enjoy luxurious resort spa treatments, great restaurants and bars, first-class shopping and championship golf.  The entire destination is sure to please auto enthusiasts and their friends and families alike. Read our Visitor’s Guide to Barrett-Jackson to find out where to stay, eat, expected weather and how to get around North Scottsdale near WestWorld.

Hotels and Resorts near WestWorld

(with approximate rates during Jan. 15-22)

• Scottsdale Links Resort – Rooms from $259/night
• Hilton Garden Inn North Scottsdale – Rooms from $234/night
• Fairmont Princess Resort Scottsdale – Rooms from $399/night
• Scottsdale Marriott at McDowell Mountains – Call for availability 1-888-559-2575
• Zona Resort Hotel and Suites – Call for availability 1-888-559-2575
• Residence Inn Scottsdale North – Rooms from $269
• Sleep Inn at North Scottsdale Road – Rooms from $229
• La Quinta Inn & Suites Phoenix Scottsdale – Rooms from $165

5 Places Locals Like Eat in North Scottsdale

Weather Forecast

Average January temperatures you can expect around during Barrett-Jackson around the state:

                      High / Low (F°)
Scottsdale 66° / 41°
Phoenix 67° / 46°
Sedona 56° / 28°
Prescott 51° / 21°
Flagstaff 42° / 15°
Grand Canyon
South Rim 41° / 18°
North Rim* 37° / 16°
West Rim 64° / 39°
Below the Rim 56° / 36°
Tucson 65° / 42°
Lake Havasu 66° / 40°

*North Rim is Closed Oct – May

Getting Around

Wondering if you should rent a car when you arrive in Phoenix or take a taxi/shuttle? Take it from a local, cabs here are pricey and Phoenix and Scottsdale are very large, spread-out cities. We’d hate to see you get stuck paying expensive taxi fares every time you venture out to the car auction, restaurants, shopping and golf courses. Save the cab fare and rent a car at the Phoenix airport and enjoy exploring Scottsdale on your own schedule. Sure, you won’t save enough cash to buy one of the collector cars at the auction, but you could treat yourself to a “long drive” on the golf course!

The South Rim is the most popular destination at the Grand Canyon

Which should you visit – the South Rim or the West Rim of the Grand Canyon? It’s a question more and more visitors are asking each year. The answer depends on several factors and ultimately comes down to whatever makes the most sense for your vacation. Read on for some questions and answers to help you figure out what you expect to get out of you Grand Canyon visit, and choose the Rim that’s right for you.

#1 Where will your trip originate? Nevada or Arizona?

If your trip will originate from Phoenix, Flagstaff, Sedona or another Arizona city, you’ll most likely want to choose the South Rim. It will probably be a shorter drive by several hours and hundreds of miles, giving you more time to enjoy the views at the rim instead of a view of your steering wheel. On the other hand, if you’re starting from Las Vegas, it probably makes the most sense to see the West Rim. Just a 3.5 hour drive (122 miles) from the glittering desert oasis lies Grand Canyon West, home of the Grand Canyon Skywalk and dozens and dozens of tour options.

#2 How much time do you have to spend at the Grand Canyon? A half-day or 1-2+ full days?

Because the entire Grand Canyon – regardless of West or South Rim – is in a remote part of Northern Arizona, half-day driving trips to the Grand Canyon are nearly impossible.  Half-day Grand Canyon trips are do-able from Las Vegas, Williams, Flagstaff, Sedona and Phoenix when you book a helicopter or airplane tour.

Again, your origination point will influence whether you’ll see the West Rim or the South Rim. If you’re coming from Las Vegas and you have just a half-day to see the Grand Canyon, definitely plan on taking a helicopter or airplane tour and seeing the West Rim. The vast majority of Las Vegas helicopter and air tours land at the Grand Canyon West airport. If you’re coming from Sedona or Phoenix, you can take a helicopter tour straight to the South Rim. If you’re coming from Flagstaff or any other Arizona departure point, plan on driving 2 hours or more to the South Rim, then taking a 30- 45 minute helicopter tour from Grand Canyon Airport, located in the village of Tusayan.

If you have one full day to see the Grand Canyon, those driving from Las Vegas will likely choose the West Rim (a 10 hour day, including drive time) over the South Rim (an 18 hour day.) Likewise, folks coming from all points Arizona will likely want to visit the South Rim (a 12 hour day) versus the West Rim (an 16-20 hour day.)

Needless to say, if you have multiple days to see the Grand Canyon, either Rim – or even both – is do-able as long as you plan nearby overnight accommodations. The vast majority of visitors choose to stay overnight in or around the South Rim since there are far more lodging choices and room availability at the South Rim than the West Rim.

#3 What kind of view do you expect? Deep and narrow, or wide and expansive?

The South Rim views are the classic Grand Canyon views with which you’re probably familiar.  Wide, expansive, and panoramic – the Grand Canyon as seen from the South Rim is an almost surreal, unbelievable sight that will leave you changed forever. The view of the Grand Canyon from the West Rim is impressively deep, with narrower canyon walls plunging downward to the Colorado River below. Many visitors delight at the unique view of the Grand Canyon available only at the West Rim; the view from the Grand Canyon Skywalk. The view straight down through the glass cantilevered bridge offers a sometimes dizzying perspective on the Grand Canyon and the rocky chasm floor 4,000 feet down.

#4 What kind of activities do you want to do? Hiking, river rafting, a helicopter tour or train ride?

At the West Rim, one can drive or take a helicopter or air tour from Las Vegas, land at Grand Canyon West, walk the Skywalk, fly down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon in a helicopter, ride down the Colorado River in a pontoon boat, and go back up to the Rim for a horseback ride. At the South Rim, you’ll find helicopter tours, Jeep tours, bus tours, light walking and hiking, heavy-duty backpacking and overnight backcountry camping, and the ever-popular Grand Canyon Railway train ride. Upper and Lower Canyon river rafting trips typically end and begin, respectively, at Bright Angel Trail at the South Rim.

#5 Is your vacation budget a factor? Could cost make a difference?

The cost of seeing the West Rim differs from the cost of seeing the South Rim. In short, the South Rim is less expensive with regard to entrance fees, parking and shuttle costs (about $25.) The West Rim, which is not part of Grand Canyon National Park but is owned and operated by the Hualapai native American tribe; the Hualapai collect fees for entrance to the West Rim (a minimum of $43, not including tickets to walk on the main attraction, the Grand Canyon Skywalk.)

#6 Do you follow the majority or the minority of visitors?

Simply put, the majority of visitors come to the South Rim each year. Compare 4 million annual South Rim visitors to 200,000 visitors at the West Rim. There is a good reason people flock to the South Rim; it’s actually part of Grand Canyon National Park; it’s stunningly beautiful; it’s more developed by way of visitors centers and services; there’s more lodging nearby; you can hike, backpack and camp; it’s easier to access and is more centrally located for Arizona visitors; and it offers more activity and tour variety.

The West Rim is emerging as a destination so it offers fewer options for lodging, services, visitor centers and variety when it comes to activities and tours. Because it’s not a part of Grand Canyon National Park but actually owned and operated by the Hualapai Tribe on tribal land, Grand Canyon West is more a tour destination and pay-for-admission attraction than the National Park.  It’s proximity to Las Vegas, unique Skywalk attraction, beautiful rugged views and plethora of Las Vegas tour packages make the West Rim a fantastic choice for more and more of the Grand Canyon-bound each year.

Say Buh-Bye to limited airport options... Arizona's got several options to check into. Screenshot: Saturday Night Live Season 19 (March 19, 1994)

With the peak travel season for many destinations within Arizona soon upon us, many of our readers may be wondering which Arizona airport they should fly into. To help you quickly and efficiently arrive at your chosen getaway, we’re highlighting five Arizona airports that offer commercial service from major cities around the U.S.  And please, remain seated with your seat belt fastened until the pilot has turned off the Fasten Seat Belt sign. Thank yooooooouuuu!

1. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport – It’s probably no surprise that we’d start with Phoenix Sky Harbor. Phoenix Sky Harbor, or PHX, is the 6th busiest airport in the world with nearly 39.5 million passengers arriving and departing each year.  1500 flights arrive and depart daily leaving no doubt that the Valley of the Sun continues to draw tourists, businesses and residents alike.  Most Arizona visitors fly into Phoenix, via 17 commercial airlines from hundreds of cities, domestic and international, and drive themselves to every corner of the state. Get more information on Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport flight status, parking and airport shuttles, Phoenix transportation options, maps and directions.
2. Tucson International Airport – The gateway to all destinations in southern Arizona, Tuscon International Airport (airport code TUS) is serviced by 8 commercial airlines, with over 60 flights departing daily, providing nonstop service to and from 15 destinations with connections worldwide. We suggest flying into Tucson if your travel itinerary includes popular tourism spots as Tucson (of course), Tombstone, Tubac or Bisbee.
3. Flagstaff Pulliam Airport – While Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is serviced by just one commercial airline, US Airways Express, and all flights connect through Phoenix before arriving in Flagstaff, it may make sense for you to exert a little extra effort to fly into this northern Arizona city if your main destination is Flagstaff, Grand Canyon, Sedona or any other northern town. With 6 daily flights arriving in Flagstaff (airport code FLG) via Phoenix from over 70 destinations worldwide, it’s easy to take a quick 1-hour flight into the heart of northern Arizona.
4. Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport – This new airport is a gem of a gateway and a best-kept Arizona travel secret. Serviced by Allegient Air and Spirit Airlines, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway (airport code AZA) is located in the southwest Valley with easy access from the Santan Loop 202 Freeway to all points around the metropolitan Valley area. Allegiant Air provides service between Mesa and  32 U.S. cities, and Spirit Airlines offers non-stop flights between Las Vegas and Dallas-Ft. Worth, with continuing services to 8 more destinations nationwide. Airfares on Allegiant and Spirit often present great savings opportunities, but you have to be flexible with your travel schedule, as not all flights run daily.
5. Prescott Ernest A. Love Field – We’re willing to bet you didn’t know you can fly commercially directly into Prescott, in the heart of central Arizona, but you can! Great Lakes Airlines offers daily direct flights to and from Prescott Ernest A. Love Field (airport code PRC) via Denver, CO, Farmington, NM and Los Angeles, CA, with continuing service to many other U.S. cities. Prescott’s Ernest A. Love Field is located just north of downtown Prescott and is minutes from all the Prescott and Verde Valley areas’ best lakes, hiking, museums, golf and birding.

Now that you know where to fly into for your Arizona vacation, please remain seated until the pilot has pulled all the way into the jetway. Use caution when removing luggage from the overhead bins, as bags may have shifted during flight. Thank you for choosing Arizona Travel Blog Air, have a fantastic day.

Mmm’buh-bye.

Winter in Northern Arizona

Northern Arizona in the winter is a perfect place to spend a winter vacation or a weekend getaway. Whether you embark on one of the open-air tours or hiking trails that affords visitors stunning views of the breathtaking red rocks of Sedona and Grand Canyon all dusted in white, or you spend your days skiing, snowshoeing or cross country skiing on the majestic San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff. With nearly 100 inches of annual snowfall, Flagstaff and the surrounding area offers unmatched alpine activity, making Northern Arizona the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists of all types.

Regardless of your activity level and choice of adventure, the key to staying warm on your  cold-weather visit to northern Arizona is packing 10 winter suitcase essentials.

10 winter essentials for your suitcase

• Long-sleeved mid-weight shirt – pick a base layer that wicks away moisture and keeps you dry

• Fleece or wool sweater – quick-drying and ideal for repelling water and snow

• Waterproof gloves – Shield your hands from cold wind, snow and dampness. Stay away from cotton or woven materials and stick with wool, Gore-Tex or other moisture wicking textiles.

• Scarf – Keeps your neck or head warm outside and acts as a great layer you can leave on when you’re indoors or in sunny, milder temperatures.

• Hat – Essential for keeping your body heat in. Hikers may opt for a wide-brimmed style, while skiiers and snowboarders might choose a knitted skull cap or beanie.

• Waterproof outer layer – Necessary for keeping out wind and locking in warmth while you’re on the slopes or taking photography and sightseeing stops

• Boots with reliable tread – important for keeping you warm and upright!

• Sunscreen – Remember that UV rays are harmful on cloudy and sunny days alike

• Healthy snack – Keep up your energy with protein and carbohydrate-packed nuts, fruit and plenty of water.

• Camera – to capture the the stunning views

It’s here! Arizona Snowbowl has officially opened for the 2011-2012 snow season. All resort amenities will be open.  Agassiz, Sunset and Hart Prairie chairs and the Little Spruce Conveyor will be operating daily from 9 am to 4 pm. Over 80% of the resort is now open with terrain available for all ability levels. This includes several of the new runs made over the summer! Flagstaff has been getting some unusually cold weather and the town is excited to have a great skiing and snowboarding season at Snowbowl.

Is this your first time to Arizona Snowbowl?

Arizona Snowbowl is located just 14 miles outside of Flagstaff. It takes about 2 1/2 – 3 hours to the top of the mountain if you’re coming from Phoenix. There are plenty of places to rent ski and snowboarding gear around town averaging about $30/day for a complete equipment set up not including clothing. There are several slopes perfect for beginners. In fact, this is one of the more beginner friendly places to learn. This resort has a great team of instructors to learn from if you feel like taking ski or snowboarding lessons at Snowbowl. So just come out, give it a try and have fun!

Arizona Snowbowl Info:

Lifts Operating

• 3 of 6; Agassiz, Sunset & Little Spruce Conveyor

Surface Conditions
Early season; please watch for marked and unmarked obstacles on the slope sunset Terrain Park

• Boxes: 1
• Rails:3
• Hits: –

For Arizona road conditions please visit ADOT’s website

Forecast: Read the National Weather Service forecast for Snowbowl

Rates:

Please remember that lift tickets purchased in advance do not guarantee vacancy at the Arizona Snowbowl. If our maximum occupancy has been reached on any given day, admission may be denied. An early arrival is recommended for those who purchased their lift tickets in advance.

*HOLIDAY DATES

• Thanksgiving: 11/24/11 – 11/27/11
• Christmas: 12/21/11 – 01/01/12
• Martin Luther King Weekend: 01/14/12 – 01/16/12
• President ’s Day Weekend: 02/18/12 – 02/20/12

Military Discount – Anyone with a DOD card is eligible for a $40 All Day Adult Midweek Lift Ticket. That is 25% in savings!
(Discount is valid Monday through Friday, non-holiday and cannot be combined with any other specials)

Military Discount is also offered at the Ski Lift Lodge & Cabins. Present your DOD card at the time of check-in to receive 10% off your accommodation!
(Does not apply towards our Stay & Ski package)

Stay and Ski FREE – 2 Lift Tickets for the price of 1 are available with your stay at the Ski Lift Lodge & Cabins.
This special is available upon check-in. One free ticket per room per night, but additional tickets are available for purchase on the mountain.

Great Discounts for Groups of 10 and more guests.

You can find more discounts like the Peaks Card, which is a five time use lift discount card, or places to rent a ski and snowboard equipment, and other fun stuff on our Peaks Card information page.

Jamburrito Goodness

Don’t miss “Food Truck Day” November 17th.   If you’re visiting or live in the area; take a break and have lunch.

If you are not sure what your hunger is craving, join the Phoenix Street Food Coalition and the culinary selections on Thursday.

Where:  In the parking lot of Whole Foods @ Raintree and the Loop 101 Freeway

Time: 11AM – 1:30PM

Food Truck List:  Short Leash Hot Dogs, Jamburritos, Sweet Republic, CarteBlanche Gourmet Tacos,

Torched Goodness,Beet Streat, Taste Rite, and the Hey Joe Truck will all be there ready to serve you.

Hope to see you for lunch…

“One for the Road” by Teton Gravity Research
Two Showings at the Orpheum Theater
1st Showing – 7:00PM
2nd Showing – 9:00PM
Doors Open 30 Minutes Prior To Showtime
**Tickets Only Available at the Door**
Tickets are $8 for Students with Student ID
or $10 for non-Students

“Is this real life?” Yep. Thanks to Teton Gravity Research (TRG), we get to see what it’s like to not only live on the edge, but what it’s like to live off the edge, flying, falling, climbing… “One for the Road” follows world-class snow athletes in pursuit of challenging nature, physics, the human body and spirit. This film captures what most people will never get to experience. L-I-V-I-N!

Shot on location with some of the world’s most progressive snow sports athletes, TRG brings home epic footage of winter adventures using some of the world’s most technologically advanced cameras including Phantom, RED, GoPro HD, and Canon DSLR. From a record-breaking season in Jackson Hole to Iceland and the Balkan wonders of Macedonia – watch these athletes explore more as they continue through Montenegro, while shredding deep pillow lines at Baldface Lodge and uncover first descents in Pemberton, BC.

Only a select few cities have the privilege of seeing this in the theater and Flagstaff, Arizona is one of them. Tuesday, November 15, 2011, Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center (KPAC) is having its annual fundraiser at the Orpheum Theater. “One for the Road” will have two evening showings, 7pm and 9pm. Proceeds go to KPAC’s avalanche awareness and safety clinics. There will be raffles and silent auction items – and of course an amazing film being shown in a theater with some really great people.

Come support KPAC and experience an unbelievable adventure while sitting in a cozy, warm seat at the Orpheum Theater.

Athletes: Sage Cattabriga-Alosa, Ian McIntosh, Todd Ligare, Griffin Post, Chris Benchetler, Dylan Hood, Dash Longe, Daron Rahlves, Sven Kuenle, Erik Roner, Nick Martini, Dana Flahr, Rory Bushfield, Callum Pettit, Rachael Burks, Shroder Baker, Byron Wells, Andreas Hatveit, Tom Wallisch, Mike Riddle, Grete Eliassen, Josh Dirksen

Locations: Iceland; Macedonia; Montenegro; Pemberton, BC; Baldface Lodge, BC; Jackson Hole, WY; Juneau, AK; France; Utah; Squaw Valley, CA

If you can’t make it to the show, consider donating to KPAC.