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}

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…

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!

When we say “artist community,” what city comes to mind? Santa Fe, New Mexico? Certainly. Sedona, Arizona? Absolutely. How ’bout Tubac, Arizona? Oh, you’ve never heard of it? Well, here’s to learning something new every day!

Tubac is a quaint southern Arizona artist community that, in addition to an eclectic array of restaurants, galleries, wineries, and boutique shops, boasts many amenities and activities, including mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, bird-watching, cave exploring, and more. Surrounded by lush grounds and magnificent mountain ranges, the community is bejeweled by the Tubac Golf Resort & Spa, home to a stellar 27-hole championship golf course (where “Tin Cup” was filmed), beautiful hacienda-style spa and salon, and stylish 18th century mission-style wedding chapel.

There’s no time like the present to get to know this charming town because this week, there’s a great cultural and culinary event happening in Tubac.

Click to view larger at TubacOriginals.com

Restaurant Daze and Twilight in Tubac will start this Wednesday, May 18 and run until Sunday, May 22. The event features 13 unique restaurants that will serve specially selected meals at discounted prices. Lunch specials will be $9.95 per person, a 3-course dinner special is $16.95 per person, and a couple’s 3-course dinner special is $29.95. Tubac Golf Resort & Spa’s own Stables Ranch Grille will be participating and thus offering the special prices and menu. In addition, over 30 shops and galleries in the area will be celebrating Twilight in Tubac by staying open till sunset and offering specials as well. Restaurant Daze and Twilight in Tubac is the perfect time to explore all of southern Arizona’s hotspots!

Event At-a-Glance:

• Where: Tubac, Arizona – approximately 1 hour south of Tucson on I-19
• When: Wednesday, May 18 through Sunday, May 22
• What: 13 participating restaurants and 30+ shops and galleries offering specials and extended hours for unique dining experiences and strolling the village streets, finding art and collectibles.

Check out these Tubac, Arizona tourism resources and more information about Restaurant Daze and Twilight in Tubac:

• Tubac2Day.com Blog
• TubacOriginals.com
• Tubac Golf Resort and Spa

Google Map of Tubac, Arizona:

View Larger Map

Today, we kick off a series we’re calling Back(pack) to Basics series with a general guide to the Grand Canyon. We’ll answer all the basic questions about visiting the Grand Canyon in a lightweight, easy-to-carry guide you can stuff in your “backpack” of web resources and maybe even visit this Natural Wonder of the World this summer.

Simple Starters

Grand Canyon National Park is located entirely in northern Arizona near the southern border of Utah and the southeastern tip of Nevada.

Most visitors come to the South Rim (open all year). The North Rim (open mid-May through mid October only) has fewer facilities and is less accessible (it is over 200 miles one way by automobile from the South Rim to the North Rim, a 5-hour drive for most). When making reservations for lodging and camping remember to identify the rim you plan on visiting.

• Bring an extra set of car keys it could be a long wait for a locksmith.
• Film is available at both rims, but the closest camera repair is in Flagstaff, Williams, or Page.
• There is an automobile mechanic on the South Rim, but you may experience delays waiting for parts.
• Distances are deceiving in this part of the country: it may look like you can visit three parks in one day, but reality is often different.
• Keep your gas tank full the next gas station may be quite some distance down the road.
• Carry water in your car, particularly during summer months.
• Cell phone service is very limited, if at all available, inside the Park.

General Information

Pets
Pets are allowed in the park but must be on a leash at all times. Leashed pets are allowed on rim trails throughout the developed areas in the park but not below the rim, in park lodging or on park buses. The only exception is certified service dogs. Persons wishing to take a certified service dog below the rim must check in first at the Ranger Office (at the corner of Center Road and Village Loop Drive.)

A kennel is available at the South Rim only. It is open daily from 7:30am – 5pm. Call (928) 638-0534 for information. Reservations are suggested.

Fishing
Fishing in the park requires an Arizona state fishing license. Licenses are available at the Camping Department of the DNPS General Store at Market Plaza, Grand Canyon Village, South Rim. They are not available at the North Rim. Make sure you know the regulations before you fish.

The best time of year to fish for trout within the park is in the fall and winter. Bright Angel Creek by Phantom Ranch permits unlimited trout fishing; unlimited striped bass; unlimited catfish. Trout taken at Bright Angel Creek shall be killed and retained as part of the bag limit or immediately released.

Ranger-led Programs
National Park Service (NPS) rangers offer a wide variety of interpretive programs throughout the year on the South Rim, including a nightly evening program (indoors in colder weather, outdoors in summer) and throughout the season on the North Rim. All NPS programs are free and open to the public. Detailed program information is listed in the park’s newspaper available at the entrance station.

Bus & Air Tours
Persons wishing to take a guided bus tour should visit our Grand Canyon Tours by Land: Hike, Ride, Rail, Walk. A variety of different tours are available throughout the year.

All scenic air tours operate from outside Grand Canyon National Park. Local commercial air tour operators are located in Grand Canyon Airport (just south of Tusayan). For a list of air tour operators, visit our Grand Canyon Helicopter & Air Tours page.

Bicycling
Bicycles are not available for rent in the park. If you plan to bring one, remember that in Arizona bicycles are subject to the same traffic rules as automobiles. Use extreme caution when riding on park roads; shoulders are narrow and vehicle traffic is heavy. The West Rim Drive is open to bicycles throughout the year, but remember that during the summer months there is heavy bus traffic on the West Rim Drive. Use caution and do not obstruct traffic. Bicycles are not allowed on any park trails.

Mountain bikes are allowed only on those roads open to automobile traffic.

Shuttle Transportation
From March 13 to October 18 the park operates a free shuttle bus system on the South Rim in Grand Canyon Village and along the West Rim Drive. These shuttles provide transportation; they are not tour buses. You must get off the bus to see the canyon. Most shuttles are inaccessible to wheelchairs. However, accommodations can be made with advance notice by calling 928-638-0591 at least 24 hours in advance.

Shuttle service is provided seasonally between the North Rim and the South Rim for a fee by Trans Canyon Shuttle (928-638-2820). Shuttles depart the North Rim daily at 7 a.m. with arrivals to the South Rim at noon; South Rim departures are at 1:30 p.m. daily with arrivals to the North Rim at 6:30 p.m.

Medical Services in the Park
The South Rim has a clinic and pharmacy (928-638-2551) open all year. Emergency medical services are provided by rangers and clinic staff – dial 9-1-1. North Rim emergency medical services are provided by rangers on duty – dial 9-1-1.

Accessibility
Not all park facilities meet the accessibility standards that have been set in recent years, and many of the buildings in the park are historic. However, many facilities are accessible with assistance, and an increasing number of facilities are accessible. Accessibility Guide may be downloaded here.

Lodging
In-Park

Lodging on the South Rim is booked well in advance. Be sure to make reservations as far ahead as possible. A variety of lodging facilities are available and reservations are handled by Xanterra Parks & Resorts. Prices range from $45 to $285 per night for two people. There is no youth hostel in Grand Canyon National Park.

Out-of-Park
The following accommodations are available in Tusayan, 7 miles south of the South Rim. More details about these hotels can be found on our South Rim Lodging page

Camping
In-Park
Camping in the park on the South Rim is restricted to established campgrounds, although a few remote sites are available with a Backcountry permit.

Mather Campground: Operated by the National Park Service and located in Grand Canyon Village, this campground offers tent and RV camping (no hook-ups). Reservations are required from April 1 through November. For online reservations, visit http://reservations.nps.gov. Fees are $12 to $15 per site depending on the season. Maximum of two vehicles and six people per site. Sites may be reserved up to five months in advance. Campsite reservations are booked well in advance; make reservations as far in advance as you can. Mather Campground is handled on a first-come, first-served basis from approximately December 1 to March 1 of each year. Cost: $10 per site.

Trailer Village: (adjacent to Mather Campground) offers RV sites with hook-ups; reservations may be made by calling 303-297-2757. Cost: $20 per site. A dump station is located adjacent to Mather Campground and Trailer Village on the South Rim (closed during the winter months).

Desert View Campground: (26 miles east of Grand Canyon Village; no hook-ups) is open mid-May through mid-October and operates on a first-come, first-served basis only. Cost: $12 per site (maximum of 2 vehicles and 6 people per site).

Out-of-Park
Ten-X Campground: The U.S. Forest Service operates this public campground 2 miles south of Tusayan. Open May through September. No hook-ups or showers; pit toilets and cold water faucets are located throughout the campground. Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and rarely fills. Cost: $10 per vehicle per night (maximum of two vehicles per site). Group site is available for groups of up to 100 people, reservations required. Call 520-638-2443.

Dispersed Camping: Dispersed camping, or camping “at-large” is permitted in the national forest outside the park. Camping must be at least 1/4 mile away from Highway 64. Other restrictions may apply. Contact the Tusayan Ranger District, Kaibab National Forest, P.O. Box 3088, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 or call 520-638-2443 for information.

Services

A variety of services are available in Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim and in Tusayan, 7 miles south of the rim.

Dining
A wide variety of restaurants are available in the park from formal El Tovar Hotel to cafeterias at Yavapai and Maswik Lodges. Tusayan offers both fast food and more formal dining.

Fuel
Gas, diesel, and propane are available at Desert View, in Tusayan, and just outside the south entrance.

Showers and Laundry
Located adjacent to Mather Campground in Grand Canyon Village and in Tusayan.

Groceries
Available in Grand Canyon Village, at Desert View, and in Tusayan.

Camping Equipment
Sales and rentals in the Grand Canyon Village. Other: Post office, Western Union office, bank, automatic teller machine (ATM).

Park Headquarters & Visitor Center

The main park Visitor Center and Headquarters building is located on the South Rim at the east end of Grand Canyon Village, 6 miles from the South Entrance Station, and is open all year. Other visitor contact stations open year-round with exhibits, ranger staff, and/or bookstore operations include Tusayan Museum, Desert View, and Yavapai Observation Station. North Rim Visitor Center is open during the summer months.

How to See the Canyon

There are many overlooks accessible by car that offer spectacular views of the canyon. The East Rim Drive (Highway 64) follows the canyon rim for 26 miles east of Grand Canyon Village to Desert View (the east entrance to the park). The East Rim Drive is open to private vehicles throughout the year. The West Rim Drive follows the rim for 8 miles west from Grand Canyon Village to Hermits Rest. The West Rim Drive is closed to private automobiles from mid-March through mid-October. At that time of year the park runs a free shuttle bus to provide transportation to overlooks on the West Rim Drive.

A hiking trail follows the rim from Yavapai Point to Hermits Rest; the Rim Trail is paved from Yavapai Point west only as far as Maricopa Point. Unpaved portions of the trail are narrow and close to the edge.

Yavapai Observation Station (at Yavapai Point, just west of Mather Point on the South Rim) offers panoramic views of the canyon (including the Colorado River and Phantom Ranch) from inside the building and is open all year.

For viewing and photographing the canyon, 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 in THE GUIDE, the park newspaper issued at the park entrance. If you’re planning to see the canyon at sunrise or sunset, it is recommended that you be on the rim at least an hour beforehand.

The Colorado River, which is responsible for the existence of Grand Canyon, lies at the bottom of the canyon, 5000 feet below the rim. Because of the enormous depth of Grand Canyon, the river is visible only from certain viewpoints. It is a two-day (round-trip) hike to the river from the South Rim for most people; it’s a longer trip from the North Rim. It is possible to drive to the Colorado River at Lees Ferry (near Marble Canyon, Arizona) but this is a 2 1/2 hour drive (one way) from the South Rim. Lees Ferry marks the official beginning of Grand Canyon, and the canyon is only a few hundred feet deep at this point.

Hiking and Backpacking

Grand Canyon offers some of the most challenging hiking and backpacking found anywhere in North America. Steep trails, intense heat, fast changing weather, and elusive water and shade combine to make for harsh conditions–even on a good day. Over 250 visitors are evacuated from the Canyon for medical emergencies by the park service Search and Rescue team each year. Proper planning and training is imperative.

With few exceptions the 1.2 million acre national park is fair game for foot traffic. Due to the difficult terrain the vast majority of the backcountry is only accessible by experienced off-trail hikers or uphill forays from rafting trips. To assist the rest of us there are approximately two dozen established trails that provide access to some of the park’s most remarkable destinations.

These trails begin on the North or South Rim and eventually make their way to the rock bottom of the Canyon a vertical mile below. The trails vary in length and difficulty. A backcountry permit is required for all overnight camping in the park. Find out more about securing a permit by following this link http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/backcountry.htm

Day hikers are not required to obtain a permit from the park service. They should choose their route carefully, and let someone know where they are going and when they plan on returning. Each year several day hikers become lost or disoriented in the Canyon, and several perish as a result. Don’t become a statistic. Do your homework, don’t take any undue risks, and stay well within your known limits in terms of physical exertion.

Best Day Hike

Bright Angel Trail
The best day hike for newcomers to the Grand Canyon is a descent of the Bright Angel Trail. This historic trail begins in Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim and tumbles seven miles to the Colorado River below. However, going to the river and back in a single day is strongly discouraged for any hiker on any day. The good news is that there are obvious places to change course and head back uphill including the rest houses (with treated drinking water during the hot summer months) that are found at 1.5 mile increments between the top and Indian Garden Campground which is half the distance to the bottom. Plan for twice as much time and effort to go up than it takes to go down.

As with all day hikes, get a reliable weather forecast and dress accordingly, wear sturdy shoes and a brimmed hat, and take a few quarts of water and salty snacks for each person in your party. All this same advice follows for the best day hike on the North Rim that can be found on the precipitous North Kaibab Trail.

Best Backpacking Destinations

Bright Angel Campground &Amp; Indian Garden Campground
For first-time backpackers in Grand Canyon National Park the most popular itinerary is to spend a few nights at either Bright Angel or Indian Garden Campground. The Bright Angel Campground can be accessed by either the Bright Angel or the South Kaibab Trail (off the South Rim); Indian Garden by the Bright Angel Trail. Advance campground reservations are recommended.

Both campgrounds have restrooms, treated drinking water, established campsites, individual food storage canisters (to thwart the critters), and are frequently staffed by helpful park rangers. Packing correctly will make or break your experience. For a list of backpacking gear follow this link http://www.hitthetrail.com/equipment.php

Once you’ve mastered the “easier” trails in Grand Canyon you can graduate to the next tier of more remote trails in the Hermit and Grandview Trails (South Rim). Also popular is Havasu Canyon including the waterfalls at Havasupai and Mooney Falls.

Havasupai And Mooney Falls
Havasu Canyon, home to the Havasupai Indians, is a paradise located in western Grand Canyon known worldwide for its towering waterfalls and beautifully sculpted rock. In this idyllic setting of lush side canyons and sun-splashed cliffs a small group of indigenous hunters and farmers arrived centuries ago and carved out a simple lifestyle; one that continues to this day.

Havasu Creek, the carver of this serpentine side canyon beneath the South Rim, is fed by a deep aquifer. The perennial desert stream tumbles over several major waterfalls on its journey to the Colorado River on the floor of the Grand Canyon. The presence of calcium carbonate in the highly mineralized, spring-fed water gives Havasu Creek its distinctive blue-green color. This same robust creek sustains a rich riparian ecosystem that is home to a wide variety of plants, birds, and animals.

Though many Supai tribal members continue to farm in this flood-prone drainage, tourism has emerged as the tribe’s primary source of income. Fee-based camping is offered year round. In addition to backpackers, visitors arrive by helicopter and horseback, some staying in the tribe’s rustic lodge. Camping in Havasu Canyon requires an permit that can be obtained directly from the tribe. For more information on visiting Havasu Canyon follow this link http://www.havasupaitribe.com.

The South Rim

Rim Trail
Begin from any viewpoint in the Grand Canyon Village or along Hermit Road. The Rim Trail extends from Mather Point in the Village west to Hermits Rest. It offers excellent walking for quiet views of the inner canyon and for visitors who desire an easy hike.

Bright Angel Trail
The trail begins just west of Bright Angel Lodge. It is well-maintained and follows switchbacks to the Indian Garden Campground and Inner Gorge. After Indian Garden, the trail heads east along the river to the Bright Angel Suspension Bridge and on to Phantom Ranch. The roundtrip length of the Bright Angel Trail is 19 miles and descends 4,400 feet.

South Kaibab Trail
This trail begins south of Yaki Point on Yaki Point Road. It is 12.6 miles roundtrip and is steep, dropping 5,000 feet in 6.3 miles. The trail follows ridge lines rather than side canyons. It goes to the Inner Gorge where it meets with the Kaibab Suspension Bridge on the way to Phantom Ranch.

Grandview Trail
Caution is required as this trail is unmaintained, steep, and very strenuous. It begins at Grandview Point on Desert View Drive 12 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. The 6 mile roundtrip trail descends to Horseshoe Mesa.

Hermit Trail
Hermit Trail begins 500 feet west of Hermits Rest which is 8 miles west of Grand Canyon Village. It is unmaintained, steep, and very strenuous. The 17 mile roundtrip leads from the canyon rim to the Colorado River. Sights include Hermit Gorge, The Supai Formation, Santa Maria Spring, and the Redwall Formation.

The North Rim

Widforss Trail
The trail can be reach by leaving Grand Canyon Lodge and going 2.7 miles north on the highway, then turn left one mile on a dirt road; the turnoff is 0.3 mile south of the Cape Royal turnoff. This is a relatively easy hike with great canyon views. It skirts the head of Transept Canyon and across a plateau with ponderosa pine to an overlook near Widforss Point. Below the trail’s end is Haunted Canyon flanked by the Colorado River on the right and Many Temple and Budda Temple on the left. The trail is 10 miles roundtrip and is frequented by mule deer.

Ken Patrick Trail
The 19.8 roundtrip trail starts at Point Imperial and goes along the rim to Cape Royal Road. Then it continues through forest to the North Kaibab trailhead. Great hiking through the forest with views across the headwaters of Nankoweap Creek.

Uncle Jim Trail
The first mile of the trail is along the Ken Patrick Trail and then breaks off to Uncle Jim Point. It is 5 miles roundtrip and has views of Roaring Springs Canyon and North Kaibab Trail.

For further reading you may want to purchase the Official Guide to Hiking the Grand Canyon which features all the Grand Canyon trails as well as giving tips on packing, permitting, and safety. This book is published by the Grand Canyon Association (GCA) and can be purchased online at http://www.grandcanyon.org. For a guided backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon consider joining an educational outing with the GCA’s field seminar program, the Grand Canyon Field Institute (a link available on the GCA homepage). There are also numerous commercial guiding companies that can be hired for backpacking or day hiking. Find them on this site under Grand Canyon Tours & Things to Do and Grand Canyon Tours By Land: Hike, Ride, Rail, Walk.

On a final note, please remember that the Inner Canyon is a fragile desert ecosystem, and that the desert “grows by the inch and dies by the foot.” A single careless boot print off the trail can last for decades in such an environment. Be sure to tread lightly, and leave the Canyon the way you found it. For more on Leave No Trace hiking and backpacking follow this link http://lnt.org/programs/

Grand Canyon Weather, Temperatures and Precipitation

Grand Canyon South Rim Weather:

Grand Canyon West Rim Weather:

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

Take your kids sledding in AZ! Photo credit: Tony the Misfist on Flickr.com / Creative Commons

Got a great question on our Facebook page today, but thought I’d post the reply here for everyone to read. If you still have questions, or have any other recommendations to add, please feel free to comment here.

Dear Arizona Travel: Where do we take the kids sledding on a day trip from Phoenix?
Maria – Phoenix

Hi, Maria! Try these:

Flagstaff Nordic Center

• The Flagstaff Nordic Center offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowman building and pull-behind sledding and night play on Fridays when conditions allow. Downhill sledding is available at Crowley Pit, just 1 mile past the Flagstaff Nordic Center. The center is open daily and had 20 of its 40 kilometers of trails.
• Getting there: The center is about 15 miles northwest of downtown Flagstaff and 160 miles from central Phoenix. Head north on Interstate 17, which leads into Milton Road in Flagstaff. Follow Milton Road downtown to U.S. 180 north. The parking lot is along the highway at mile marker 232.
• Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily and 6-9 p.m. Fridays if conditions allow.
• Skiing: Reservations for equipment rentals must be made by 3 p.m. three days before your visit. Skis and rental packages range from $10 – $20/day, and trail passes are priced at $10 – $18/day.
• Snowshoeing: The center has about 9 miles of marked snowshoe trails, and dogs are allowed if kept under control. Reservations are suggested to ensure equipment availability. Trail passes and snowshoe rentals are $10 – 18 per day each.
• Sledding: A sledding area is near U.S. 180 at Crowley Pit, about 1 mile past the Nordic Center. The pit’s parking area is not maintained, but portable toilets and a garbage can are available. Several hills with various grades and lengths are available. Learn more about Crowley Pit, a Forest Service site, at flagstaffnordiccenter.com/snowplay.php
• Details: 928-220-0550 or flagstaffnordiccenter.com

Wing Mountain Snow Play area

This area offers small sledding hills and moguls for tots, as well as areas for skiing, snowshoeing and other snow play. Food and hot drinks are available.

• Getting there: It’s about 150 miles from central Phoenix. Take I-17 north to Milton Road into downtown Flagstaff, then U.S. 180 north. At mile marker 226, 2.8 miles past Snowbowl Road, turn left onto Forest Road 222B.
• Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily.
• Admission: $12 per vehicle. Sleds are available for purchase.
• Details: 928-226-0493 or snowplayaz.com.

Sunrise Park Resort

Known for its downhill ski runs, Sunrise also offers tubing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

• Getting there: It’s about 220 miles from central Phoenix. Take Arizona 87 (Beeline Highway) north to Payson, then Arizona 260 east through Show Low and Pinetop-Lakeside to Arizona 273, on the Fort Apache Reservation. Turn right (south) on Arizona 273. Sunrise Park Lodge is about 4 miles south, and the Sunrise Ski Area is about 3 miles past the lodge.
• Tubing: It’s like sledding, only you fly down the hill on an enormous inner tube. A tubing hill is behind Lake Ono, off the main entrance. Tube rentals are $8 a day, or you can bring your own tube.
• Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing: More than 13 miles of groomed trails are available. Trail passes cost $7 for adults and $4 for juniors. Equipment rentals are $10 a day.
• Sleigh rides: $22 per person for a 30-minute ride, and $30 for a 60-minute ride.
• Details: 928-735-7669 or sunriseskipark.com

Elk Ridge Ski and Recreation Area

Named for the ridge line south of the ski area, this site once was known as the Williams Ski Area. Tubing, cross-country skiing and snowboarding are available. The lodge has been renovated and is under new management. Check their website for schedules and holiday closures.

• Getting there: It’s about 180 miles from central Phoenix. Take Interstate 17 north to Flagstaff and Interstate 40 west to Williams. Go south on Fourth Street, which turns into Perkinsville Road, then Ski Run Road to Elk Ridge.
• Hours: 10a.m.-5:00 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
• Prices: $13 Adults ages 13+; $10 Kids ages 4-12; $35 Family (2 adults, 2 children under 13); Free for children younger than 4 with an Adult.
• Details: 928-814-5038 or elkridgeski.com

Enjoy the snow! Let us know how it goes and feel free to share pictures through email and/or on our Arizona Travel Facebook page!

– Christina

Okay, your turn folks… any other questions or suggestions to add?

Photo credit: NASA_goddard CC BY 2.0

When we were kids, my sister and I loved the 1980 PBS series Cosmos with Carl Sagan. Something about his deep, soothing voice and that gold cordoroy blazer just drew us in. Well, that, and the fact that as daughters of a NASA spokesperson and an accomplished teacher, we were reared on a steady diet of science, art and philosophy. That was me at age 5.

Now that I’m a mother, I am thrilled that there is an emerging children’s museum in Prescott, Arizona. Located inside Prescott Gateway Mall, the spot… a Child’s Museum is an “emerging” museum in the throes of its fundraising and awareness phase.

Judy Paris, president of the Children’s Museum Alliance and founder of the spot… a Child’s Museum explained, “The museum promotes STEM programs (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics so we are eager to begin our science programs. The initial method will be through Science Saturdays which are comprised of specific topics in the field of STEM presented by an expert. We expect to have these special Sci Sat programs monthly on a variety of subjects.”

the spot’s inaugural Science Saturday is this weekend, Saturday, May 22 from 10:30am until 1:00pm at their space inside the mall (next to Dillard’s.) Children will experience the theme of the event, “Exploring the Solar System” with guest speaker, Stacy DeVeau, who is the Director of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University’s NASA Educator Resource Center.

“Stacy was involved very early with us, even before we became a non-profit. She was excited to hear we were researching the possibility of a museum since she is a former teacher and now the NASA educator located at ERAU. We have had many chats with ERAU about partnering to bring STEM programs to young children so they are energized to follow careers in those fields. Stacy is passionate about this as well and was a member of our charrette team who developed our primary concepts for the grand vision,” said Paris.

Children will also get to participate in hands-on art and engineering activities. Because the spot is not only focused on STEM principles but also ties in all the fine arts as well as our Arizona heritage and culture, the special event’s activities will also include poetry, literature and art.

“Stacy will introduce children to basic aspects of the solar system,” Paris continued. “Children will be able to identify the planets, learn how they differ, gain knowledge about size, weight and distance. They will design their own planets, create an alien, and use solar system stamps and stencils to create a card or poster.”

Children will listen to poetry about planets by Jen Ulm, author of the children’s book, Planetary Personalities, who will be on hand to do a reading from her book and one-on-one time for literary exploration.

“It should be an out-of-this-world experience!” Paris quipped.

Dr. Sagan once wrote: I am often amazed at how much more capability and enthusiasm for science there is among elementary school youngsters than among college students.

the spot… a Child’s Museum embodies the same passion for introducing children to discovery-based and inquiry-based learning early in their lives. Research shows that many children (and many adults) learn better when education includes hands-on experiences. Paris explained, “Hands-on learning is absolutely critical to young children. Sometimes it’s better to do something than to read it in a book. Children need to be active and doing things in order to learn and create those experiences in their brains that they can call upon later when they are reading books and they are doing mathematical problems, that they have those experiences to back up the principle.”

Science Saturday is an ideal way to give your child the experiences to back up the principles they’re learning in school. And it’s the first of many events at the spot in which central and northern Arizona families can support their children’s education and their community.

“This is another major step for us at the museum. It is the first in a series of science programs that we want to bring into the lives of young children. It takes energy, time and money to bring these programs to children so we may clearly demonstrate to the community the value of our museum. We continue to be a core group of volunteers who want to enhance the education of children and embrace families through unique experiences.”

Tickets are limited, so be sure to buy online before the event. Tickets are available through ShowUp.com and cost $10 (plus a $2 service fee) per 1 adult + 1 child. The event is targeted toward children ages 5 – 12.

If your 5 year old is anything like the 1980 version of me, I’m certain he or she will be fascinated by this weekend’s Science Saturday. And I’ll bet you a Milky Way bar that your child will say, “This is my spot! My place of discovery. When can we go back to the spot?”

Photo credit: thales on Flickr.com - CC BY 2.0

Imagine floating over Sedona as the sun peeks out over the crimson towers that line the eastern horizon. As the sun crests in the sky, your morning hot air balloon ride gives a bright perspective on what the day might bring. End your ride with a gourmet champagne brunch amidst the famous Sedona red rocks.

Things to Know Before Hot Air Ballooning in Sedona:

• Afraid of heights?  Not to worry.  People who normally fear heights tend to feel very comfortable in a hot air balloon because there is no sensation of motion. Balloon flight is smooth; in fact, if you close your eyes, you can’t feel it.
• Safety checks.  Better than a parachute, the balloon is inflated on the ground and checked thoroughly before going up.  Within minutes, passengers feel secure and comfortable and are able to relax and enjoy the spectacular view in every direction.
• While its true that you’ll generally drift along with the wind, which is part of the reason ballooning is such an adventure, balloon operators have precise vertical control.  The wind direction varies at different heights; we can change our altitude to achieve some variation of our direction.
• The balloon company’s chase crew will follow on the ground and take you back to the launch site.
• A traditional champagne toast follows your flight once upon return to the launch site.
• A balloon flight is typically three-to-four hours from the time you arrive until you’re ready to go home. Flight time is 1 to 1 1/2 hours depending on weather conditions.
• What should I wear for my hot air balloon ride? It’s actually warmer in the balloon than on the ground because we’re moving with the wind instead of against it so there’s no “wind chill”.  We don’t go to altitudes where it’s cold and we get some radiant heat from the burners above us. Dress for your comfort on the ground, keeping in mind that a sunrise takeoff may be chilly on the ground.  Wear  casual clothing in light layers.  When considering footwear, you’ll usually land in a pleasant spot but, on rare occasions, we may have to hike out so wear appropriate hiking boots or athletic, closed-toed shoes.
• Hot air ballooning is a colorful experience so you’ll want to bring a camera or video gear. Just bring a soft bag for your equipment to protect it and other passengers on landing.

There are several hot air balloon companies in Sedona, Arizona.  Please visit our Sedona Outdoor Recreation page on Sedona.net to find and book reservations with Sky High Balloons or Red Rock Balloons, two of our favorite tour providers.

Dear Arizona Travel:

In the last ten years what has been the average weather conditions in Sedona from July 15 – 31? Would Sedona be good vacation location for a person with a heart condition who is unable to tolerate the high temperatures in July? I am hoping my friend will not have to stay in the air conditioned condo during our stay the week of the July 15th.

–M.E. Zapata

Greetings, M.E.!

Here is a chart of the average daily temperatures for July 15 – 31. I don’t know how large the sample of years over which these averages was taken (i.e. your suggestion of 10 years) but I used Weather.com as my resource.

Photo credit: BethinAZ on flickr.com http://www.flickr.com/photos/bethinaz/ / CC BY 2.0

In general, the latter half of July is rather warm and sunny. However, there will be plenty of daytime hours that should feel quite comfortable for your friend. I recommend you start your days early, around 7am, to take advantage of comfortable morning temperatures. I suggest a morning Jeep tour – there are several companies that can offer a tour that would be safe for someone with a heart condition. After about a 4 hour tour, you could have a nice lunch indoors or on a cool, shady patio like the one at The Secret Garden at Tlaquepaque. Your friend may want to return to the condo for a respite during the hottest hours of the day, between 2 and 6pm.

There are plenty of really great indoor activities beyond spending time at your condo. Perhaps a nice spa treatment, a movie, a visit to the Sedona Arts Center, gambling at the nearby Cliff Castle Casino, a scenic drive, a ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad, a visit to an area winery, or a psychic reading. Also, you can get out of the heat by driving up Oak Creek Canyon for a shady walk/hike, or venturing down to the banks of Oak Creek to sit and relax with or even wade in the creek. There are lots of big trees, tall mountains and cool shade.

Another option is to take a half-day trip up to Flagstaff and visit Lowell Observatory or the Aboretum. Flagstaff is beautiful in the summer, with higher elevation and milder temps around 80 degrees at the peak of the day’s heat. Flagstaff is just 40 minutes from Sedona via Oak Creek Canyon (27 breathtaking miles.)

Here’s a list of 102 Things to Do in Sedona, many of which are perfect for staying cool in the summer.

So, YES! Sedona is a great vacation destination in July or anytime of year.

–ChristinaToo