Arizona Vacations

Planning this year's summer vacation? It's easy when you live in Arizona. Here are a few vacations ideas to get you started: Looking north, the Grand Canyon (one of the seven natural wonders of the world) plunges one mile down and 277 miles across the horizon. Stand in four states at the same time at Four Corners Monument, view the famous buttes of Monument Valley, and explore the red canyon Indian ruins of Canyon de Chelly. For water enthusiasts, two thousand miles of shoreline await at Lake Powell. To the the northeast, cross the world's longest travertine bridge at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. Then follow the pine-studded trails of Mogollon Rim into the White Mountains where hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, and fishing define the great outdoors.

Higher elevations and cooler temperatures make Flagstaff an attractive escape from the heat. Visits to the San Francisco Peaks, Meteor and Sunset Craters, Walnut Canyon, and Wupatki are well worth the trips. And don't forget the gorgeous red rocks of Sedona, the rushing streams of Oak Creek Canyon, and natural water fun at Slide Rock State Park. Hikers and picnickers love the serene waters of Lynx and Watson Lakes in Prescott.

A southern swing through Tucson will net more outdoor recreation with summertime chairlift rides in the Santa Catalina Mountains. Sabino Canyon is an excellent riparian area with hiking, picnicking and exploring. Bring out your "inner cowboy" with a visit to Old Tucson Studios or to one of the "dude" ranches in the area. A little further south, tour Arizona's living cave, Kartchner Caverns. Experience the rustic old west in Tombstone and the true grit of copper mining in Bisbee.

Chase the sunset to Arizona's west coast where dune buggies and off-road vehicles play in the sand dunes of Yuma. Follow the Colorado River north for more non-stop water recreation at Lake Havasu City. Stroll across the London Bridge and shop at the English Village there. Continue the journey north until you reach Hoover Dam and Lake Mead.

Summers may sizzle, but the greater Phoenix area offers thrilling water parks indoor recreation, nearby lakes, and lower summer rates at championship golf courses.
For more Arizona vacation ideas, contact the Arizona Office of Tourism at 602-364-3700 or visit www.arizonaguide.com.