Most people who live in the Metro Phoenix area are not aware that Prescott is a reservoir of lake adventures. Less than 100 miles away from Downtown Phoenix is a secret land of glass lakes, mellow rivers and streams and a entirely different way to explore our backyard. The treasure that Arizona’s nature provides continues to keep giving and surprising lovers of Arizona time and time again.

Photo Credit: AZ Central

Kayaking in Prescott can be a relaxing experience or an exciting adventure. Placid lakes offer stunning views with giant boulders and  multi-colored rock walls jetting out of the smooth water; a truly humbling experience that allows nature and yourself to come to a peaceful accord. For a little more action, many of these rocks and be jumped off of. Get a group of friends, rent some kayaks, pack some drinks and sandwiches and have a picnic at the base of a rock wall do a bit of cliff diving! (Make sure to take all your trash back with you.)

Other kayaking trips in Prescott include streams with some class two rapids that have class three spots. Some people follow these streams and rivers for a few days by setting up camp on the banks at sunset after a day of water adventure followed by another great day of kayaking just after having sunrise breakfast.

Photo Credit: Sedona Adventure Tours

Summer will be here soon enough and Phoenicians will be looking for a way to take a break from the heat. There’s so much to do in Arizona – this state is truly fortunate to have so much to offer. This summer, be creative with your weekends. If you and your friends or family are looking for exciting and budget friendly things to do Arizona this summer, there’s no shortage of options here.

Here are some kayak/boat rentals and tours:

• Prescott Outdoors
• Lynx Lake – Rentals
• Water into Wine River Trip
• Paddle to Pints
• City of Prescott – Recreation Services

View Prescott Lakes – Kayaking in a larger map

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.

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!

Photo credit: CEBImagery.com on Flickr | CC 2.0

Today, we’re proud to present the second installment of a series we call Back(pack) to Basics with a general guide to Sedona, Arizona. We’ve included everything you need to know about visiting Sedona in a lightweight, easy-to-carry guide you can stuff in your “backpack” of travel resources and this year, visit the place USA Today hailed as The Most Beautiful Place in America.

General Information

Lay of the Land

Getting to Sedona
Most Sedona visitors fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport because it is the closest major international airport to Sedona. From there, it’s best to rent a car and drive yourself to Sedona via I-17 to Highway 179 (exit 298) which is about a 2 hour drive. There are several Phoenix to Sedona shuttle companies offering daily scheduled trips for about $90 – $140 per person round trip.

Lodging

The peak seasons in Sedona, when lodging is at a premium and rates escalate, are January 1 – April 15 and September 15 – November 30. You’ll find the best bargains in the summer months and December, both of which are still fantastic times to visit Sedona. The average length of stay in Sedona is about 2.3 nights; you can see most of the sights in two days, but smart visitors will take advantage of many hotels’ “extra night free” programs, making Sedona their home base for additional day-ventures to the nearby Grand Canyon, Flagstaff and Verde Valley. You can find all the great lodging we describe on our guide to Sedona hotels, resorts and lodging, Sedona.net.

Hotels and Motels

A variety of hotels and motels are available all over greater Sedona. You’ll find both familiar brand hotel chains and independent properties. Prices range from $90 – $250 per night in the peak months and $70 to $200+ per night in the off-season.

Resorts & Spas

Sedona is home to some of the most world-renowned resorts and spas in the country. Indulge in a spa vacation or luxury creekside retreat, perfect for couples, honeymooners, girlfriends’ getaways and individuals (go ahead, you deserve it!) Rates range from $200 – $400 per night in the peak months and $130 to $200 per night (and up to $300 per night for the most upscale resorts) in the off-season.

Bed & Breakfasts

Boasting over 17 unique bed & breakfasts, Sedona is a haven for Europhiles who love the personal touch of a bed & breakfast. Innkeepers of these Sedona gems attract guests with uniquely decorated guestrooms, gourmet breakfasts, personal concierge service, and significant overall value. Whether you’re seeking romance and privacy, sightseeing guidance from an expert Sedona insider, or simply a one-of-a-kind accommodation you’ll remember and recommend for years to come, these bed & breakfasts are certain to fit the bill. Rates vary widely based on the size, amenities offered and demand for these charming inns, but you’ll find anything from $150 per night to $500 per night, based on the season and the style, from simple to luxurious.

Pet-Friendly
Sedona is pet-friendly. Several Sedona bed & breakfasts, inns and Sedona hotels cater to four-legged guests. Check out this list of dog friendly hotels in Sedona, 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.

A pet friendly Sedona vacation goes beyond accommodations; check out these suggestions for Sedona pet friendly activities and restaurants that don’t just accept pets, they cater to them.

Dining

How to See Sedona…

There are many scenic viewpoints accessible by car that offer spectacular views of the red rocks of Sedona, BUT first be sure to pick up a Red Rock Pass ($5/day, $15/week) at one of many commercial vendors (stores, gas stations, hotels, etc.,) government offices and self-serve machines throughout the area. (Where to buy) A Red Rock Pass allows you to park, hike, picnic, and take photos on Coconino National Forest land.

…on a Guided Tour

Likely the most popular way to see Sedona, a Jeep tour from any one of nearly a dozen expert companies is a great way to see some of Sedona’s most breathtaking views, discover the backcountry, learn about Sedona’s history, geology and ecology, and bond with friends, family and other visitors. It’s also an ideal way for multi-generational groups to see Sedona together; a Jeep tour is exciting, yet safe, for kids and grandparents, teens and adults alike.

That’s not to say that a tour by Jeep is the only way to see Sedona from a different point of view. You may opt for other guided tours such as van tours; horseback riding; wine tasting tours; river rafting and kayaking adventures; railway tours; hot air balloon, helicopter and airplane tours; or guided vortex hikes. Every one of these tours satisfies a different interest, taste, ability and budget. And whether you’re seeing Sedona from the back of a horse, or down on Oak Creek, or high above the red rocks, each one of these tours changes your vantage point, so even if this is a return trip to Sedona, you can see it in a whole new light. Find a tour that’s right for you on our guide to Sedona tours, Sedona.net.

…on a Self-Guided Driving Tour

The following are loosely listed in order of how you might encounter them on a driving tour of Sedona, starting in the Village of Oak Creek off Hwy 179 and continuing to the “Y” at Hwy 89A, heading west and then doubling back along Hwy 179 toward Uptown Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon along Hwy 89A. Many include easy to advanced hiking in order to reach the best viewpoints, but several can be viewed from a parking lot or on the side of the road (be careful parking roadside; traffic in Sedona can be very busy.)

You can start this self-guided tour at any of the points below and simply go back to the top of the list and work your way down. Since most Sedona visitors begin their visit by entering the area from the south, (from Phoenix, off I-17) we’re starting our list there.

1. From the Village of Oak Creek on Highway 179, where you can pull into the Coconino National Forest parking lot for the Bell Rock Pathway to view Bell Rock and Cathedral Butte. This turnoff on the east side of the road is about 1.1 miles north of the National Forest’s South Gateway Visitors Center.

2. Return to Highway 179 and head north 2.8 miles to Back O’ Beyond Road, turning west off the Highway and see spectacular Cathedral Rock.

3. Return to Highway 179 and continue north 0.5 miles to Chapel Road, then 0.8 miles east on Chapel Road up the hill to the famous Chapel of the Holy Cross.

4. Continue on Highway 179 and go to the “Y” at the junction of Highway 179 and Highway 89A. You’re now in Uptown Sedona.

5. From Highway 179, take Schnebly Hill Road. This 38 mile winding and picturesque route ultimately ends at an intersection with Interstate 17. You may choose to go the entire way or turn around and head back down to Highway 179 – it’s up to you. (If you do go all the way up to Interstate 17 and want to come down a different way, you can either go south 38 miles to exit 298 and come back up to Sedona through the Village of Oak Creek on Highway 179, or head north on the 17 and come down Oak Creek Canyon 27 miles on Highway 89A.)

6. Back at the divergence of Highway 179 and Schnebly Hill Road, continue around the world-famous Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Shopping District and follow to the “Y,” a traffic circle at the intersection of Highway 179 and Highway 89A. An exit to the right of the Y will take you to Uptown Sedona, where you’ll find shops, hotels, galleries and restaurants with public free parking lots and on-street parking. Best to get out and stroll a while here… there’s too much to see from your car windows!

7. Leave Uptown and head west on Highway 89A 1.1 mile, turning south on Airport Road (keep your eyes out… there is no traffic light here.) A short, steep climb up the hill to Airport Mesa, home of one of Sedona’s vortex spots and perhaps the most popular scenic viewpoint at sunrise and sunset.

8. Return to Highway 89A and head through West Sedona where you’ll find more shops, dining, hotels and galleries. From Airport Road, travel 2 miles west to Dry Creek Road at which you make a right and head north up Boynton Canyon. Boynton Canyon is one of the most scenic of the box canyons that make Arizona Red Rock Country so famous. Boynton Canyon is also home to the renowned Enchantment Resort.

9. Back out on Highway 89A to the west 1.1 miles is Upper Red Rock Loop Road. Red Rock Loop, aptly named, creates a complete loop that passes through Red Rock State Park, one of Sedona’s most popular hiking, picnicing and photography spots. From here, many iconic photos of the view from Red Rock Crossing to Cathedral Rock have been taken.

10. Complete the loop on Lower Red Rock Loop and return to Highway 89A. From here, your trip doubles back 5.5 miles toward Uptown Sedona, and continues up Oak Creek Canyon. You’ll pass Midgley Bridge and Indian Gardens, both great places to stop and take photos. (If traveling north to south, you’ll enter Uptown Sedona about 7.1 miles from Slide Rock.)

11. Just 7.1 miles from Uptown Sedona is Oak Creek Canyon’s most popular attraction, Slide Rock State Park. With easy walking trails, wading in the creek and a natural waterslide, this park is open year-round but is most popular (read: crowded) in the summer months with visitors and families looking for some cool, natural water play. (If traveling north to south, look for West Fork about 2.8 miles from West Fork .)

12. Another 2.8 miles up Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A will take you to the trailhead for the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon Trail, an easy 3-mile and extremely popular day hike. (If traveling north to south, look for West Fork about 6 miles from the Oak Creek Vista .)

13. Nearly 6 miles of winding switchbacks up Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A is the Oak Creek Canyon Vista. Look for a well-marked and ample parking lot on the east side of the highway. Don’t miss this opportunity to stretch your legs and view Oak Creek Canyon from its apex as it runs south. Breathtaking year-round, it’s a signt to behold in winter, fall, summer or spring. (If returning from I-17 in the north, the turnoff is about 8.3 miles down the canyon.)

14. From here, you can either turn around and head back down Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A south or continue 6.4 miles to the junction of 89A and Interstate 17. If you continue north toward Flagstaff and the I-17, you can either take I-17 south to Schnebly Hill Road or the full 38 miles to exit 298 and return to your starting point in the Village of Oak Creek.

…Through the Lens (Photography)

For viewing and photographing Sedona, the light is most dramatic early or late in the day; mid-day sun tends to flatten the view and soften the colors. Remember that days are short in the winter and long in the summer. Times for sunrise and sunset are listed below along with our Sedona weather tables.

…On Foot (Hiking)

Sedona 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 Sedona unfolding below.

Best Easy Hike – West Fork Trail

West Fork of Oak Creek Trail is probably the most popular hikes in Sedona because it’s an easy hike and offers something new and uniquely beautiful every season of the year. Though easy, the trail does cross the creek in a number of places, so be prepared to walk across stepping stones or through some shallow water.

Rating: Easy
Distance: 3 miles
Time: 2 – 3 hours round trip
Map and Information: Coconino National Forest Service

Best Moderate Hike – Brins Mesa Trail

A convenient and picturesque trail, Brins Mesa leads hikers out into the open to delight in unobstructed views of spectacular red rock formations. Start your hike at the trailhead located about a mile from Highway 89A on Jordan Road in Uptown Sedona. Brins Mesa can be hot in the summer, so be prepared with plenty of sunscreen and water, as you would with all hikes. Turn around at the edge of Brins Mesa to return to the trailhead. If you have two cars, park one at the Jordan Road end and one at the Soldier Pass trailhead and do the whole trail one way.

Rating: Moderate
Distance: 3 miles – 4.1 miles
Time: 1 hour
Map and Information: Coconino National Forest Service

Best Difficult Hike – Schnebly Hill Trail plus Munds Mountain Trail

Schnebly Hill Trail features a moderate and steady climb toward several overlooks offering great views of Munds Mountain, Bear Wallow Canyon and the red rock formations beyond. With simple signage, it’s easy to continue onto Munds Mountain Trail, a steep, switchback ascent, climbing 500 feet in just over .5 mile. You’ll be rewarded by fine views over Jacks Canyon and the rim country all the way to the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff. Turn around where the trail flattens out as it emerges on the broad, open, flat expanse of the mountain top.

Rating: Difficult
Distance: 6.2 miles
Time: 4 hours
Map and Information: Coconino National Forest Service

Sedona Weather: Temperatures, Precipitation and Sunrise/Sunset Times

Sedona Temperatures and Precipitation:

Sedona Sunrise, Sunset Times and Length of Days:
based on the 1st day of each month

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

Flagstaff, Arizona during ski and snowboarding season is a great time to experience a different side of Arizona from what most visitors expect. Flagstaff is one of the few places in Arizona where Christmas, pine trees, scarves, beanies, mittens, sledding, tobogganing, hot cocoa and snowball fights are truly part of the season. Though it’s wonderful to be able to play golf in 68 degree weather in Phoenix in December, there’s something very invigorating about playing in the snow during the winter.  

The slopes at Snowbowl opened on December 17, 2009 this season, and you better believe we were there to test the snow out! As Arizona residents know and accept, Snowbowl is great for a quick snowboarding fix. If driving from Phoenix, it’s a two-hour drive into a Winter Wonderland. For those who are avid boarders or skiers who are used to Colorado or Utah slopes, please realize that Flagstaff is located in a state that is primarily a desert. We’re just happy to have decent slopes.

Having said that, the conditions at the beginning of 2010 are looking great. It’s packed powder; all 4 lifts are in full operation (that means Agassiz to the top!); 9 boxes, 2 rails and 4 hits.  You can check out the current conditions and any updated slope/rate info at ArizonaSnowbowl.com

Over the last few years, we’ve collected a few favorite places to make part of our snowboarding ritual. In addition, we’ve learned a few tricks to make our adventures a little more budget friendly and/or painless.

Peaks Card

For a multiple visit skiers and snowboarders – but not often enough to justify purchasing a season pass:

The Peaks Card is $50, which discounts your lift tickets for five days throughout the season and gives you one of those days for free. Not bad!  Card holders can buy lift tickets Mondays through Fridays for $10 off, while weekend and holiday tickets are available at $5 off. These Peaks Cards are available for adult passes only and can only be used by one person per day.

A full day lift ticket at Snowbowl is $49, so basically, it is a $1 to purchase the ability to have your next four lift tickets discounted. The cards may be purchased online or at the Guest Services office in Hart Prairie Lodge when you visit Snowbowl for the first time. A picture ID is required to purchase the discounted lift tickets with the card.

Mid-Week Discount Coupon

This has specific dates, so just click here on Flagstaff Snowbowl Mid-Week Discount Coupon to see if the dates match up for you.
  

Ski & Snowboard Rentals

Peace Surplus  Tel: 928-779-4521
 14 West Route 66
 Flagstaff, AZ 86001
 Email: info@peacesurplus.com

Snowboard and Ski Rental Packages: $21.00 out the door

Ski Haus
Tel: 928-774-7671
204 West Sullivan (800 Block of North Humphrey’s)
Flagstaff, Arizona 86001

Basic Snowboard Package: $22 +tax
Premium Snowboard Package: $27 + tax (newer demo Burton setups)

Basic Ski Package: $20 + tax Premium Ski Package: $28 + tax (Rossignol Bandits, Head Cybers, Rossignol RocX, or dealer demo)

Best Place to Warm Your Aching Bones: 

Macy’s European Coffeehouse, Bakery & Vegetarian Restaurant 
Tel: (928) 774-2243
14 Beaver Street
Flagstaff, AZ 86001-5502

Best Place to Drink Away Your Sore Behind:

Beaver Street Brewery 
Tel: (928) 779-0079
11 Beaver Street
Flagstaff, AZ 86001-5500

My dad is just like my grandpa,
but my grandpa is better.

- Zach, 5th grader

Photo credit: ArizTravel.com - All Rights Reserved

“What makes your grandparents so special?”   This was the question Verde Canyon Railroad posed to thousands of grade school students across the state of Arizona, in the annual “Grandparents Day Essay Contest.”

An abundance of entries poured into the Railroad’s Clarkdale depot, full of all the qualities that children find most appealing and important in a grandparent. Winners were chosen from each region, and each successful author will be awarded complimentary first-class train rides for them and their grandparents aboard the famed wilderness excursion train on Sunday, September 13th, 2009 celebrating Grandparents Day.

“We really enjoy reading the essays– they’re always so bright, funny and charming that it makes it very difficult to choose winners,” said Teresa Propeck, Verde Canyon Railroad’s Marketing Director.

“My dad is just like my grandpa, but my grandpa is better,” said Zach Abrigo in his prize winning essay. Abrigo is a 5th grade student at Cottonwood Middle School in the Verde Valley. Adriana Revilla, a 4th grader from Desert Heights School in Peoria, let us know about her “lovable” grandparents, “They are so understanding because when I accidentally gave my grandpa a black eye they did not get mad.”  “What makes my grandparents special is that they love me no matter what,” said McKenna Olsen, a 5th grader from Challenge Charter School in Glendale. “Sure, they’re sometimes embarrassing and weird, but that’s only because they’re just trying to play around with me.”

Students from Del Rio Middle School in Chino Valley submitted an entire binder full of entries about their retiring lunchroom/playground volunteer, Celia Chapman, known as “Grandma” to the entire student body. The students love their “Del Rio Grandma” for helping them open their snacks and lunches, keeping them safe from harm on the playground, and for her famed Hubba Hubba dance every Friday. “She also knows most of our names at school, which is about 700 children,” said 3rd grader, Coltin Farnsworth. Naturally, with credentials like this, the Verde Canyon Railroad will award a train ride to “Grandma” Celia Chapman.

Students love their ‘Del Rio Grandma’ for her famed Hubba Hubba dance [she performs] every Friday.

Other winners include Makaela Hayman,  4th grader at Clarkdale-Jerome School; Keigan Willingham, 3rd grader at Del Rio Middle School in Chino Valley; Miranda Masters,  2nd grader at Canon Elementary in Black Canyon City; Adrian Lara  and Charity DeTemple, both 4th graders at Prescott Valley’s Acorn Montessori; Nialetti Daley, 5th grader at Phoenix’s Joseph Zito Elementary; Collin Wood and Rook Wood, 2nd graders at Bustoz Elementary in Tempe; and Justin Paprocki and Jacob Garza,  5th graders from Challenge Charter School in Glendale.

Grandparents Day is Sunday, September 13th. On this date, the Verde Canyon Railroad departs at 1:00 pm and returns at 5:00 pm, a perfect, leisurely excursion through the wilderness for grandparents, parents, and children of all ages.

The Verde Canyon Railroad depot is located at 300 N. Broadway in Clarkdale, 25 minutes from Sedona, 2 hours north of Phoenix and 90 minutes south of Flagstaff. Go to verdecanyonrailroad.com for more information.

Last Day’s “Last Run” is Just Straight-up Fun.

Photo credit: Shap2007 on flickr.com

There’s no amusement park in Sedona.  But that doesn’t mean that Sedona’s not a great destination for families with kids.  There are all kinds of things to do in Sedona – especially in the spring and summer – that appeal to kids and parents alike.  Check out a quick rundown of great things to do in Sedona – or a quick 20 – 60 minute drive away – if you have a child or children under the age of 12:

1) JEEP TOURS – In town, a Sedona Jeep Tour is a great, classic “must-do” for Sedona visitors of all ages. Sedona Jeep tours routinely cater to families with young children. There are several companies to choose from that offer jeep tours in Sedona so visit each one’s website to see what fits your family best.

2) SEDONA TROLLEY – The Sedona Trolley will take your family all over Uptown Sedona for shopping and dining; and a visit up Oak Creek Canyon to Slide Rock State Park is fun for some natural summertime water-play.

Photo credit: kyle simourd on flickr.com

3) STARGAZING – If the kids can stay up a little late, you might check out some Sedona astrological tours (“Sedona by Starlight” is presented by the Institute of Eco-Tourism) on Monday nights and take advantage of seeing Sedona’s beautifully dark skies filled with stars.  For tours any night of the week, check out Evening Sky Tours.  This is what you call family-friendly, natural Sedona entertainment and nightlife!

4) WILD ANIMAL PARK – Just a short 45-minute car ride, near Camp Verde, look for one of the best things to do in Prescott, AZ: Out of Africa wildlife park – a great zoo experience for the whole family.

Photo credit: cogdogblog on flickr.com

5) RIDE THE RAILS – Just a bit south of Sedona, look for the Verde Canyon Railroad (about 20 min from Sedona) for an old-fashioned train ride and sightseeing experience including lots of wildlife

7) SPECIAL EVENTS – There are some really fantastic special events in Sedona happening year-round. See our Sedona event calendar. Depending on the dates of your visit, you may catch the Sedona Arts Festival, one of many music festivals like the Sedona Jazz on the Rocks, live theater like Shakespeare Sedona or the Sedona Film Festival. Several popular fall & winter holiday events like Fiesta de Tlaquepaque and the famous Sedona Luminarias are reason alone to take a family vacation to Sedona, AZ.  And anytime of year during your sightseeing in Sedona, be sure to look for all the “Javalinas on Parade,” a public art installation all around town. Kids love to use their “treasure” maps and go “hunting” for the Javalinas.

Photo credit: eyeliam on flickr.com

8) KIDS EAT FREE – For parents on a budget (read: ALL PARENTS) a Kids Eat Free deal is something to shout about.  Check out Sedona restaurants like Joey Bistro and Stakes & Sticks – both located at Los Abrigados Resort & Spa – where, starting March 29, 2009, Kids Eat Free  every Sunday. Please call Stakes & Sticks at 928-204-STIX (7849) or Joey Bistro at (928) 204-JOEY (5639) for more information.

Enjoy your Sedona family vacation!

Tickets are now available for the Grand Canyon Railway’s enormously popular The Polar Express for its ninth season.  Based on the classic children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, this Christmastime attraction will run in 2009 and early 2010 on selected dates from November 13, 2009 through January 9, 2010.  Tickets for The Polar Express sell out quickly, so be sure to reserve your tickets for 2009 now, available exclusively at 1-800-THE-TRAIN  or on the Grand Canyon Railway website, www.thetrain.com.

• November 13-15, 19-23, 25, 27-30, 2009
• December 2-7, 9-14, 16-23, 2009
• January 2-3, 8-9, 2010
  

  Santa visits with those who Believe on the Polar Express. Photo credit: Philms on flickr.com

In 2007, we polled thecanyon.com visitors to discover the most popular Grand Canyon vacation activity plans. It’s easy to see that there are such numerous and diverse things to do at the Grand Canyon that there is no one clear winner. So what does that mean to you? There’s something for everyone and you don’t necessarily have to give up on your favorite for fear of impossibly long lines and twelve-month waiting lists. So start planning your vacation today! Browse the tours, activities, attractions and information on thecanyon.com to make these popular Grand Canyon vacation activities come alive.