99 Things to do in Northern Arizona 2023

YOUR MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES: 2 Clubs, 3 pools (including a salt pool, a lap pool and an outdoor pool), 4 Steamrooms, 6 Jacuzzis, 2 Kids Clubs, 9 Courts, State of the Art Strength and Cardio Equipment, Indoor Track, Gymnasium, Personal Training, Small Group Training, Physical Therapy, Tanning plus much more!

100+ GROUP FITNESS CLASSES PER WEEK

INCLUDED WITH YOUR MEMBERSHIP!

Beginner Classes, Yoga, Cycling, Zumba, Step, Pilates, Aqua Basics, Poolates, Flex-ability Core, Barre Fusion 45, Movement and Strength, Barre Above, Les Mills RPM™ , BodyPump® , BodyJam® , Sprint™ and more!

flagstaffathleticclub.com/schedules

Ages 4-11

Group, Private and Semi-Private Swim Lessons

Meadows surrounding the San Francisco Peaks are filled with the last stand of flowers following an active monsoon season.

6 99 Things to do in Northern Arizona

A list of our 99 favorite things to do in northern Arizona from the Verde Valley to the Grand Canyon.

7 Editor’s

TABLE OFCONTENTS ON THE COVER

Notes

Learn about the newest additions to this year’s edition of 99 Things.

8 Day Plan

Take a trip to Flagstaff for a day-long, space-themed adventure where you can explore ancient craters, the history of NASA and the vast reaches of the universe.

14 Matters of Taste

The Toasted Owl is a quirky Flagstaff-based restaurant with a delicious southwestern flare and a great story that will have you rushing to be seated.

18

Flagstaff Breweries

Looking for a brewery to try out while in Flagstaff? Use this map to help you find a place to enjoy a cool craft beer.

20 Weekend Plan

If you’re a wine drinker, use this itinerary to help guide you down the Verde Valley Wine Trail.

26 Outfitters for the Canyon

Kayak the Colorado outfits northern Arizona’s visitors with everything you need to enjoy the Colorado River from SUPs to kayaks.

30 Memories of Northern Arizona

An array of memories from the people who live and visit northern Arizona.

33 Week Plan

Northern Arizona is filled with natural wonders. Use this week-long plan to guide you through some of the state’s most stunning landmarks.

46 Red Mountain Trail

Take a journey to Red Mountain and learn about the spectacular geography of this ancient cinder cone.

PUBLISHER/ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Colleen Brady Colleen.Brady@lee.net

EDITOR

Matthew Hayden mhayden@azdailysun.com

SALES MANAGER

Zachary Meier ZMeier@azdailysun.com

SALES CONTRIBUTOR

Jayne Hayden jhayden@azdailysun.com

PHOTOS

Jake Bacon

Rachel Gibbons

Matthew Hayden

CONTRIBUTORS

Gail G. Collins

Sabrina Grimaldi

Larry Hendricks

Grand Canyon: Mouth of Havasu Creek 0208.

Photo by Erin Whittaker

JAKE BACON PHOTOS , ARIZONA DAILY SUN

99 THINGS TO DO in Northern Arizona

Flagstaff and the Peaks

Brandon Robertson rides his ski bike down the Midway Catwalk at Arizona Snowbowl.

RACHEL GIBBONS , ARIZONA DAILY SUN

When I first moved to northern Arizona a couple of years ago, I had no idea what I was getting myself into.

Initially, there was a lot of fear because my personal lifestyle tastes did not jibe with my preconceived notions. Don’t get me wrong, I love the heat, but I was in search of a place with ecological variety and a culture that would be more enriching than where I came from. And being the idiot that I was back then, I thought Flagsta and the northern Arizona community would be nothing more than the conclusions that I had come to in my own head.

Boy, was I wrong.

Northern Arizona is bursting at the seams with adventure, culture, beauty and opportunity. I remember visiting the Grand Canyon for the first time expecting, as always, to be underwhelmed, thinking, “How big could it REALLY be?” Well, when I first caught a glimpse of it, I couldn’t fully comprehend its immensity. The light haze that things get when they’re in the distance gave the North Rim a mystical quality; one that makes you feel as if you’ve been transported to a di erent planet. It’s an uncanny feeling, but recently, I’ve been resisting the urge to describe many of the

things you’ll find in northern Arizona as “otherworldly.”

These declarations suggest subliminally, if not outright, that the wonder of this natural world can only be found elsewhere. They dilute our sense of place and our relationship with the land, so in this edition of 99 Things to do in Northern Arizona, we are examining this sense of place and the ways in which we can interact with the land we live with.

Back by popular demand, we have developed three itineraries for you to use as a guide or for inspiration as you venture through the state. We have also brought back Flagsta ’s brewery map with some much-needed edits that will keep our craft beer connoisseurs happy as they navigate Flagsta and the surrounding towns. And we have added a brand new section where you can read about the community’s favorite memories during their time in the area, and we hope that you will be able to contribute your own when your time here is done.

Northern Arizona is shaping up to be a beautiful place to visit this year, but please, if you do decide to come, take care of the land. It’s the only one we’ve got.

All the best,

Matthew Hayden 928.556.2280 mhayden@azdailysun.com

space day A in

Look no further than Flagstaff for your cosmos-themed day trip

Vastanddustylandscapes;deepandintimidating craters; geologic histories that span eons. If you didn’t know any better, it might have seemed like we were describing Mars or the moon, but since you have a copy of “99 Things to do in Northern Arizona” in your hands, you know better. While we agree that a summer vacation on Mars would be thrilling, if not terrifying, northern Arizona has a

Explorer geophysics test at Cinder Lake Crater Field, Arizona in December 1968; John Hendricks (in suit) along with (L to R), Dick Wiser, Bill Tinnin and Putty Mills standing by Explorer vehicle.

plethora of cosmic-themed attractions that will satisfy the little space cadet that lives in us all.So,whether you have a passing interest in the historyof space travel orare a full-blown simp for the universe, here is an itinerary for a space day in the world’s first International Dark Sky Place: Flagstaff, AZ

USGS PHOTO P726C

Though the real show begins after the sun goes down, we recommend getting an early start on your day, so if you’re one of our friends in southern Arizona, treat yourself to a sunrise drive. Coming up I-17, you will be able to witness the splendor of the sun on the plains near Arcosanti and the warm glow of the Sedona red rocks. It’s an earthly experience that will ground you before blasting o into the vast reaches of outer space.

Once you’re in Flagsta , fuel up with some delicious co ee at Macy’s European Co ee House . It has a wide variety of co ee options and an ambiance that is hip, cozy and always buzzing with loyal clientele. If you’re hungry, you can order food from its breakfast-to-dinner veggie menu with vegan and gluten-free options; however, if you’re less interested in the co ee and more interested in

JOHN BALLEM ON UNSPLASH

Located just a couple minutes outside of Flagsta , Meteor Crater is considered to be the best-preserved meteorite impact site in the world. LEFT PAGE: Flagsta is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for cosmic-themed adventures. JEREMY PEREZ, PEREZMEDIA.NET

USGS PHOTO 768227-3

An aerial view of a firing sequence during the construction of Cinder Lake Crater Field # 2 on July 27, 1968.

the food, eat at MartAnne’s Burrito Palace . Its hearty menu o ers guests loads of options, but no matter what you choose, the kitchen will serve up a lot of it. For us, there are few better ways to start a day than with a plateful of Mexican food.

Dab the corners of your mouth and stretch out those legs because our first activity for the day is Meteor Crater. Located just 45 minutes outside of Flagsta , this natural landmark is the best-preserved meteorite impact site in the world and is home to a ton of attractions that tell tales from the history of NASA. Situated on the crater’s rim, the Barringer Space Museum o ers visitors the opportunity to learn more about space exploration and the history of asteroid and meteor impacts on earth. Their hands-on exhibits are fun for the whole family, and the view from the observation deck on

Moon Mountain is stunning. One of our favorite things to do at the museum is visit the COLLISION! 4D Theater and the Meteor Crater impact simulation. Both attractions breathe a lot of life into the already engaging and beautiful landmark and are perfect for kids.

After you’ve been certifiably blown away by the grandeur of Meteor Crater, we recommend that you head back to Flagsta for some lunch before your next activity, but to make sure that you don’t stray too far from your next stop, grab some lunch at Fat Olives . This iconic Flagsta eatery o ers some of the best Italian food in northern Arizona, but if you’re going to get anything, you’ve got to get one of their pizzas. They are a Vera Pizza Napoletana restaurant, so they cook all of their pizzas traditionally, using only the finest imported ingredients, and if you weren’t already interested, this is a frequent stop

ABOVE: A woman sits waiting for her co ee in the reflection of a Macy’s co ee house window. RACHEL GIBBONS, ARIZONA DAILY SUN

LEFT: Fat Olives margherita pizza

JOHN CONLEY

Art Tour

forGuyFieri,theMayorofFlavortown himself.

You’ve paid the check, you’ve loaded up on carbs and now it’s time to hit the road again and visit another crater just north of town. Sunset Crater and the Cinder Lake Crater Fields, though not created by anything from outer space, were used during the initial steps of the Apollo mission to help prepare astronauts for their walk on the

moon. It’s an interesting and often untold chapter of the Apollo story, but it’s one that you can participate in by visiting the crater and walking along the lava flows

You’ve done a lot of walking today, perhaps more than you expected,sowhydon’tyoutake a load off and have a cool drink at one of our favorite spacethemed watering holes, Dark Sky Brewing . Flagstaff is, among many things, famed

ABOVE: MartAnne’s Breakfast Palace offers an extensive menu of Mexican fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

RIGHT: Dark Sky Brewing has recently expanded, a change that includes a new, large, outdoor patio where customers can sit under umbrellas, enjoying Flagstaff’s lovely weather and DSB’s locally brewed beers. RACHEL GIBBONS,

COURTESY OF OLIVE THE BEST

ABOVE: Olive the Best is an excellent place to grab some quality olive oil for yourself and loved ones

GABRIEL GRANILLO

ABOVE: Pato Thai’s Tom Ka is a warming coconut-base soup with chili, mushrooms, cilantro, lemongrass and your choice of meat, shrimp or tofu.

ABOVE: Ceramic mugs by Joni Pevarnik are on display at The Artists’ Gallery in downtown Flagstaff.

RACHEL GIBBONS, ARIZONA DAILY SUN

LEFT: Karma Sushi Bar Grill’s 6 E. Route 66 location includes a long bar located right in front of where the sushi is prepared

JAKE BACON, ARIZONA DAILY SUN

RIGHT: The Lawrence Lowell Telescope, gifted to Lowell Observatory by Abbott Lawrence Lowell, stands at the top of the observatory’s Pluto Walk Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto on Feb 18, 1930, using this telescope.

HOPE O’BRIEN, CRONKITE NEWS

for its delicious craft breweries, and Dark Sky is one of the best. Recently, they expanded their downtown location to feature a beer garden and a kitchen that serves up some fresh hors d’oeuvres that will keep you satisfied as you sip down your favorite microbrew. If drinking isn’t your thing, downtown o ers a lot of cool boutique shopping spots and art galleries for you to peruse, including Shoes & Such , Olive the Best and the Artist’s Gallery .

For dinner, we’d recommend something fresh and a little bit lighter. Pato Thai (BOF) is a delicious, informal Asian restaurant, o ering curries and noodle dishes that you can spice to your preference. Another option along those lines is Karma Sushi

, which o ers a variety of sushi options and grilled Japanese fare. They are both ex-

cellent choices as you prepare for your final stop of the day at Lowell Observatory

First established in 1894, Lowell is one of the oldest observatories in the United States and has seen the discovery of many famous astronomical bodies including the dwarf planet Pluto. There are so many ways to experience Lowell from taking a tour to learn about the observatory’s rich history of discovery to wandering around the facilities, sitting in on science talks and looking through historic and high-tech telescopes. Lowell is the perfect place to spend the evening of your day-long astro-venture. Once your eyes adjust to the dark sky, the universe will open up to you, and you will truly understand why visiting Flagsta is one of the best things for space fans to do while in northern Arizona.

OWLSOME EATS

The Toasted Owl expands and solidifies itself as a northern Arizona favorite

G. COLLINS

We are influenced by our parents. We observed their actions, and they, generally, were our favorite humans. We admired them and often followed in their footsteps. But how does it happen?

Children hear conversations at the breakfast table, where interests, as well as their bodies, are fueled. They are exposed to career paths, especially niche ideas,

through daily details. Interviews with those who mirrored their parents describe the shared pursuits as speaking the same language.

In fact, data show that a son is 20 times as likely to become a scientist if his mother is one, while a daughter is 49 times as likely to echo her mother’s work in food preparation. And so it was for Cecily Maniaci, who owns Toasted Owl, a cozy, quirky breakfast and sandwich shop in Flagstaff.

GAIL

PHOTOS BY GAIL G. COLLINS

Toasted Owl’s owner Cecily Maniaci celebrates her community’s kindness as she opens a new business and expands down to Phoenix.

As a widow, her mother moved across the country, and over time, opened five restaurants in Tusayan. Of course, Maniaci learned what it takes to run an eatery successfully alongside her. As her mother aged out of the business, Maniaci took over before transitioning to Flagstaff and opening her own venture.

Toasted Owl launched in 2013 with a 395-square-foot shop, containing a sink, convection oven and threeplate burner, but in short order, lines winded out the door. The move in 2015 to the current, larger location on Mike’s Pike required renovations to start but offered a patio. Two years later, the bustling dining room pressed the urge to expand again to feed the eastside with a second location on Cortland Street.

“Consistency is most important,” Maniaci says, and her aim has always been, “to serve good quality breakfast food with elevated offerings. We’re not Denny’s, but we are fast. Our high end products make the difference.”

She is a morning person, so breakfast and lunch made sense to get home again to family—her initial tasters for recipe twists on standard fare.

“I enjoy unusual tastes or flavor profiles,” she says. “I eat out everywhere and have a wide palate and love to add things to the menu, whether it’s Indian or whatever tastes wonderful.”

The breakfast tamales are beef or vegetarian, topped with green chili sauce, two eggs, black beans and cheddar and served on mixed greens. Carlotta’s Kitchen, promoting a blend of traditional, yet on-trend recipes, supplies the distinctive tamales. Or as Maniaci describes them, “They are yum, creamy with green sauce. People just love them.”

Another offering from the Owl Flies South menu section are tacos. Build your breakfast with a choice of two taco fillings—sausage, chorizo, ham or bacon

ARIZONA ELEVATED

BREATHTAKING VIEWS FROM THE TOP OF ARIZONA

SCENIC GONDOLA SUMMER ACTIVITIES

SUNSET GONDOLA

Toasted Owl breakfast tacos with their house-made salsa

LEARN MORE AT SNOWBOWL.SKI

ABOVE: The Toasted Owl’s popularity skyrocketed when they moved to their location on Mike’s Pike and offered patio seating.

RIGHT:

Breakfast tamales with black beans and two eggs

made of pork, turkey or jalapeño-spiked—plus scrambled eggs and cheddar, potatoes and house-made salsa.

Owl’s best sellers include biscuits and gravy or the egg breakfast, comprised of classic components from sausage or bacon to potatoes and eggs, which “just kills it,” according to Maniaci. From the Owlrageous Omelettes, guests prefer prosciutto and brie with fig jam. Three eggs with mixed greens and creamy balsamic, plus potatoes, round up Europe’s best bites to start the day.

Lunchtime is covered with a variety of hot and cold owlwiches and a great list of burgers. If you’re chillin’, there are mimosas and Bloody Marys served all day, every day.

Toasted Owl is kitsch and vintage. To sustain an exploding love of throw-back fabulous, Maniaci’s restaurants are filled with one-of-a-kind items from chandeliers to everything owl. It’s her hobby as décor in a retail outlet. As the signs say: Everything is for sale. What will you take home?

Challenges over the past few years have plagued small business owners, and Maniaci believes her patio saved her. It’s always been furry friendly, but during the pandemic, tourists in trailers with their pets in tow pushed the limit in hilarious ways. From an enormous bird on a shoulder to fish in bowls to a tarantula at the table, she laughs at having to set reasonable limits.

Success is a siren, and Maniaci is singing its tune with more good eats. In February, she opened Plantasia Eatery nearby. The plant-based restaurant is the tasty extension of her personal health journey. Additionally, Toasted Owl announced a third location in central Phoenix in a busy, burgeoning spot called The Newton. With hundreds of apartments and an intimate following of friends and family, this owl will fly as far as her others. Think you’ve got what it takes to run a restaurant? Toasted Owl franchising opportunities exist.

Still, Maniaci celebrates and admires the collaboration with her original business neighbors and industry friends most. “Flagsta has been nothing but generous and kind,” Maniaci says. “I have such a love for Flagsta —it was the start of all of it.”

Imagination will often carr y us to worlds that never were. But without it we go nowhere Carl Sagan

FLAGSTAFF

5 Dark Sky Brewing Co. opened in 2014 and has been offering unique brews ever since. A lively indoor space, patio and Pizzicletta pies made onsight complete the cozy ambiance of this mircrobrewery. Plus, Dark Sky just opened a brand new beer garden.

3

Named in honor of historic Route 66, Mother Road Brewing Co. is Arizona’s thirdlargest independent craft brewer. Founded in 2011 it's mission is "to brew distinguished beers and build community, one pint at a time."

NHumphreysSt.

1 Jeff Thorsett opened FBC in 1994 with the mission to provide craft-brewed beer and a robust whiskey selection to a thirsty mountain town. Flagbrew (as the locals call it), provides a casual and friendly atmosphere, which anyone should expect from a genuine brewpub.

Route66

6 Known for its Railhead Red, Conductor IPA, and Black ‘N’ Raz, Beaver Street Brewery is Flagstaff's very first brewpub. Opening in 1994, this familyfriendly establishment was in many ways the vanguard of the thriving local brewing community.

4 With a Barrel + Bottle House concept in both Flagstaff and W illiams, Historic Brewing is worth a stop. Try some mainstay brews like the Piehole Porter or Undercover Cucumber plus Historic's unique limited-release brews that have a fan base of their own.

7 Made with local honey and a focus on sustainable brewing, Drinking Horn Mead Hall is the brick and mortar, Viking-inspired space for all Drinking Horn Meadery creations. Drinking Horn serves authentic mead recipes that pay homage to this ancient libation.

2

The historic Halstead Lumberyard Building, built in the early 1900’s, had been abandoned for eight years before it became Lumberyard Brewing Company in 2010. Over the last decade, Lumberyard has been brewing and distributing its flagship beers throughout Arizona.

Butler Ave 8

8 Located in Flagstaff's east side, Wanderlust Brewing Co. has a soft spot for saisons and farmhouse-style ales but also dabbles in everything from German hefeweizens to Belgian-inspired sours, British-inspired dark ales and obscure styles like Finnish sahtis and German gose.

wine country A weekend in

Take a walk down the Verde Valley Wine Trail for a weekend away

On the southern end of northern Arizona, the Verde Valley plays host to a wide assortment of hidden adventures that any tourist would love, but for wine enthusiasts, this lush river valley has become a place of pilgrimage with its award-winning vineyards and tasting rooms. The dry climate paired with the accessibility of the Verde River creates an environment that grapes thrive on.

The Verde Valley Wine Trail was created to highlight some of the most talented winemakers in this region, and since its founding, visitors from all around the world have come to taste some of the most exquisite wine in America. If you find yourself yearning to flex your sommelier skills, we have a weekend-trip itinerary that will satisfy your craving for both beauty and wine.

Now, if you’re planning a trip like this, we strongly recommend that you find

yourself a designated driver because in order to complete the wine trail, you have to visit 10 wineries, and from experience, we know that going at it alone is not an

option.

It’s Friday. You’ve spent the day working, and you’re ready to go on your wine-tasting adventure, but before we

ABOVE: View from the deck of a garden cottage at L’Auberge de Sedona. TOP: The Verde Valley is located in Yavapai County just south of Flagsta . It’s also home to the Verde Valley Wine Trail, which features 25 di erent wineries within the region. Page Spring Cellars, Arizona Stronghold and Alcantara Vineyard are some of the more popular wineries to visit on the trail.

COURTESY PHOTOS

EIGHT WINE WORKS

CADUCEUS CELLARS

THE ORIGINAL JEROME WINERY

PASSION CELLARS

CABAL CELLARS

CORONADO VINEYARDS

CLARKDALE

CHATEAU TUMBLEWEED

BODEGA PIERCE

SOUTHWEST WINE CENTER

COTTONWOOD

PILLSBURY WINE COMPANY

BURNING TREE CELLARS

ARIZONA STRONGHOLD

CARLSON CREEK VINEYARD

MERKIN VINEYARDS OSTERIA

FOUR EIGHT WINE WORKS

TANTRUM WINE

CELLAR 433

DA VINES

CAMP VERDE

ALCANTARA VINEYARDS

SALT MINE WINE

CLEAR CREEK WINERY

CORNVILLE

DA RANCH

JAVELINA LEAP

OAK CREEK VINEYARDS

PAGE SPRINGS CELLARS

COVE MESA

SEDONA

WINERY 1912

even start sipping, we recommend that you book a hotel in Sedona for two nights; one for the night before; one for the night after.Ifyou’reonabudget,werecommend checking into the Villas of Sedona, but if you’re a big spender and proud of it, splurge on L’Auberge de Sedona. It’s a world-renowned hotel that allows you to experience the best parts of Sedona in all their grandeur. If you’re staying at L’Auberge, stay in and get some dinner at its in-house restaurant. The wine-forward and Southern European menu is perfect for the night before your wine tour, but if you’re not looking to spend an arm and a leg at dinner, a fantastic, second option

would be Picazzo’s. It has delicious pizzas with gluten-free and vegan options that will satisfy the pickiest of eaters, and it’s just a short walk from the Villas. After dinner, turn in early. You have a long day ahead of you tomorrow.

It’s Saturday. You wake up early and are ready to start the wine tour,but before you begin to guzzle that grape juice, stop by the Coffee Pot Restaurant for breakfast It offers large plates of hearty food

that will fill your stomach and prepare your body for, at the very least, a mornings-worth of alcohol

Like we said earlier, you have to hit 10 wineries to say you have officially completed the Verde Valley Wine Trail, so here are our recommendations.

Start in Jerome at the Original Jerome Winery. The views from this historic town are stunning and the wine is even better Next, head down to Old Town

Cress on Oak Creek is a fine dining destination on par with some of the best restaurants in the world

The Coffee Pot Restaurant offers delicious plates of breakfast food to fill you up before you hit the trail

grand canyon brewing + distillery

ArizonaHandemadeGalleryisdedicatedto supportingandsharingtheworkcreatedby artistsinthisspecialcorneroftheworldwhere welive.Weareproudtoshowartinavariety ofmediums,includingpaintings,glassart, ceramicart,jewelry,woodcuts,lithographand intaglioprints,fiberart,metalart,andmixed mediapieces

ABOVE: Villas of Sedona is an affordable option with great views of the red rocks

LEFT: Villas of Sedona offers a cozy dining area where you can eat breakfast in the mornings.

ABOVE: Driving down Route 89A in Sedona, you can see towering mountains of red rocks nearby.

LEFT: Arizona Stronghold is one of Verde Valley’s most popular wineries

Signs like this line the streets of Old Town Cottonwood, each declaring the historic town to be the heart of Arizona wine country

The Caduceus Cellars vineyards in Old Town Cottonwood are situated in tiers of rock-lined soil.

A hillside vineyard located near Page Springs in the Verde Valley

Cottonwood where tasting rooms are aplenty! Here are a couple of our favorites: Tantrum Wines is a women-owned winery with a retro yet tasteful atmosphere; Burning Tree Cellars offers boutique wines and a outdoor patio where you can sip to your heart’s content; and Arizona Stronghold is a Verde Valley favorite with exclusive wine flights that you can only drink there and yummy finger food that pair nicely with the best wines in the state

You’re now four wineries deep and probably feeling a little tipsy, so we recommend that you grab some grub at the Tavern Grill. It’s a low-key spot in Old Town with lots of substantial food options that will refuel you for the back half of your Verde Valley wine crawl.

Once you finish lunch, head into Cottonwood-proper to visit your next two stops: Pillsbury Wine Company and Alcantara Vineyard. Though not sponsored by the doughboy, Pillsbury offers some of the best handmade wines in Arizona, but be sure to make reservations in advance, it is appointment-only for the time being. On the other hand, Alcantara is a place that allows you to go all out It

stocks more than 20,000 different wines and has a gorgeous vineyard with a view of the Verde River, making it the perfect final stop before venturing off to Cornville just a couple miles east.

While Cornville’s water is derived from the wells of Oak Creek, their vineyards are just as affluent and beautiful as the ones supplied by the Verde Oak Creek Vineyards is a delightful first stop with its sweeping vineyard views and delectable cheese and chocolate plates. If you’re feeling a little sore or in need of a good stretch, head over to Page Springs Cellars which offers you the classic wine-tasting experience and the opportunity to participate in a creek-side massage or yoga class Our final Cornville recommendation is the family-owned Javelina Leap Vineyard, Winery and Bistro which has one of the largest selections of wine in northern Arizona. And, with that, you’re at nine. One to go, but before you finish, you have to head back to Sedona and get some more food in your belly

For some delicious Southwestern cuisine, we recommend having dinner at the Salt Rock Kitchen The food is de-

licious and the view from the back patio is out of this world in the evening. The red rocks literally glow as the sun begins to set.

Luckily, your last stop at Winery 1912 is not too far away Treat yourself to a sweeter dessert wine at this family-owned and -operated vineyard, and once you’re done, you’ll be certifiably wined out. But, you can go to bed knowing that you bested the Verde Valley Wine Trail and had a great time while doing it

We gave you a schedule that you could do in a day just in case you wanted to spend Sunday sleeping in and enjoying the culture of arts that Sedona is famous for, but if you aren’t keen on doing the wine trail in a day, give yourself a break after the Cottonwood vineyards and finish up the next day.

The Verde Valley Wine Trail is supposed to be fun, so we recommend that you take it on at your own pace, have a designated driver to transport you from tasting room to tasting room and just enjoy the stunning and lush landscape of the Verde Valley. This experience is unforgettable, and we hope you get the opportunity to experience it, too

OUTFITTERS FOR THE CANYON

Kayak the Colorado offers watercrafts for every skill level

SABRINA GRIMALDI

During the summer months, Flagstaff is a highly soughtout destination because of its beautiful weather Those

who reside in the desert of the valley often make the trek up to Flagstaff to escape the heat, those who live in other states come from far across the US to see its beauty and those who

are lucky enough to live here get to experience it firsthand. This summer, if you’re looking for a unique experience to try, whether you’re coming from far away or live nearby, Kayak the Colorado is a kayak rental and stand up paddleboard outfitter that services Horseshoe Bend.

Brady Black, owner of Kayak the Colorado, started the company because the need for kayak, canoe and other watercraft rentals began to grow. He would often make trips to bring rentals with him, until he realized a business was needed Kayak the Colorado offers a backhaul taxi service that brings guests from the dock at Lee’s Ferry, upriver above

SEAN WALKER

Horseshoe Bend is one of the most famous sites in northern Arizona, and you can experience it first hand on a watercraft outfitted by Kayak the Colorado.

Horseshoe Bend towards the dam where they can paddle the day back down. This service allows beginners and experts alike to experience Horseshoe Bend.

“They can be beginners,” Black said. “The water is flat and it’s only about three miles an hour. For beginners, the inflatable kayaks are very stable. They cannot be capsized, so they make it very safe. We instruct people that they should always wear their life vests on a body of water, no matter how good of a swimmer they are. Then also, as you come down, you can be as close to the shore as you feel comfortable. It’s always safe on shore.”

Kayak the Colorado offers a diverse list of watercraft rentals such as sit-in kayaks, tandem kayaks, 15-foot canoes, inflatable tandems, paddleboats, oar rigs, stand up paddle boards and motor boats. Within this list is something for every skill level – something for every type of adventurer wanting to take on Horseshoe Bend. They

RIGHT: Leave no trace is a principle that Kayak the Colorado built their business on. Owner Brady Black says to “...always be a steward of the canyon.” COURTESY

also have an extremely detailed FAQ section on their website, for anyone feeling confused or for anyone who has questions.

While it is possible to kayak on your own accord, renting and utilizing taxi services from Kayak the Colorado adds another layer of knowledge and safety. Behind Kayak the Colorado is a team of captains who have all of the answers to guests’ questions.

“Our captains are very knowledgeable about the area, the water and the weather,” Black said. “We keep a close eye on the weather because time to time, storms may come through. We have the most diverse watercraft for people because you have paddlers, canoers,

stand-up paddle board enthusiasts. We carry the most diverse watercraft in the area.”

Black and his team encourage everyone to try kayaking at least once, but if they are new, he said it is very important to instill the need for the “Leave No Trace” principles in beginners. The “Leave No Trace” principles are widely known among outdoor explorers and have become a rule book and manifesto – a way to keep the beauty beautiful, a way to keep the outdoors as close to nature, leaving nothing but footprints behind.

“For clients that might come here, always be a steward of the canyon,” Black said. “Employ the leave no trace principles. Pack it

in and pack it out. If you see micro-trash that someone may have accidentally dropped, pick it up and help keep the canyon as pristine as it is. People do a really good job taking care of the canyon and looking out for trash or destruction. It takes a village. Some inexperienced folks through the years have done some damage where they didn’t realize that we leave only footprints. Everyone has to learn for the first time. So if you see anything, let people know and then they’ll get it.”

To check availability and to get a head start on your kayak adventure, head over to the Kayak the Colorado website. Booking through the summer months has already begun.

Kayak the Colorado o ers a diverse list of watercraft rentals such as sit-in kayaks, tandem kayaks, 15-foot canoes, inflatable tandems, paddleboats, oar rigs, stand up paddle boards and motor boats.

COURTESY

Memories

Cambria says...

I loved riding bikes on the Fort Tuthill trails and pump track! Such a fun area for all ages!

Planet

Cree says...

My favorite memory of northern Arizona is going to Havasupai every summer with my family. We like to throw the mud at each other, climb trees, visit family and (try to) swim in the icy water ���� Sadly, none of us are good at swimming (even though we are from a water tribe).

Juliana says...

Last Easter, my partner and I went on a hike to Red Mountain and had so much fun that we've now made it a new tradition to try out a new hike every Easter Sunday.

of Northern Arizona

Kassidi says...

Shout out to the often forgotten tonto and Sitgreaves National Forests! Camping off Rim Road on the Mollogon Rim ❤ kayaking in sweet hidden lakes like Knoll, Bear Canyon, Chevelon, or Blue Ridge Reservoir.

Ariel says...

I loved the very first Flag Shakes performances in the square!! It’s what brought me to Flagstaff in the first place!

What is your favorite memory?

A week of

wonders

Use up those vacation hours with a five-day trip to northern Arizona’s most stunning landmarks

There is a prevalent misconception that Arizona is all deserts and cacti,but as anyone who’s visited northern Arizona knows,this state hosts a diverse selection of ecosystems and landmarks that are sure to surprise any newcomer So,for our final itinerary,we are giving you a weeks-worth of activities which will allow you to see the best that northern Arizona and the natural world has to offer

LEFT: Brandy’s Café sits on South Beaver Street and is the perfect place to grab brunch.

BEN SHANAHAN, ARIZONA DAILY SUN

TOP: During sunrise at Grand Canyon, brilliant orange clouds fill the sky above a vast canyon landscape of colorful peaks and cliffs emerging from nighttime shadows NPS/M.QUINN

DAY ONE

Let’s start in Flagstaff with some brunch at Brandy’s Restaurant & Bakery. We aren’t sugarcoating it whenwesaythatBrandy’sisaFlagstaff staple With its homey ambiance and deliciousfood,anyvisitorwillbestoked to start their day at this unpretentious eatery

Flagstaff has loads of natural wonders,butsomanyofthemrequireafull dayofyourtimelikehikingHumphreys Peak,whichisthehighestnaturalpoint in the state of Arizona. So, we’re going to suggest doing two, smaller excursions that are less tiresome. The first beingtheLavaRiverCave.Thismilelongvolcanictubewasformedroughly 700,000yearsagoafterastreamoflava carved its way through the prairie, and to this day, it remains a stunning geological landmark that is a must see for adventurers big and small. Just make sure to bring a flashlight and a jacket because it can get very dark and very cold underground

After hiking through the Lava Cave, we recommend heading out east to Walnut Canyon While the canyon is

BRADY SMITH

The Lava River Cave is a mile-long lava tube cave formed roughly 700,000 years ago by molten rock that erupted from a volcanic vent in nearby Hart Prairie. U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest.

LEFT: Petrified Forest National Park is filled with thousands of petrified relics from trees that grew millions of years ago.

both large and gorgeous, the real treat is being able to walk amongst the cli dwellings on the canyon walls. The short walk down leads you to a robust pueblo community that was once inhabited by the Sinagua people. It’s a truly special experience as you look across and imagine the canyon walls speckled with light and humming with the sound of voices and laughter.

After these two activities, we recommend that you grab a bite to eat at La Fonda Mexican Restaurant The big portions and

protein-packed food will re-energize you before heading out to Winslow for your first overnight stay at the historic La Posada Hotel. Envisioned by the famed architect Mary Colter, erected by western developer Fred Harvey and immortalized by the structure’s beauty and the jet-setting Hollywood and D.C. elite who frequented its rooms, La Posada is not only a cozy place to rest your head but also a can’t-miss landmark of the Southwest. Spend your evening wandering its hallowed halls or grabbing a drink in the

Turquoise Room. Regardless of what you decide to do, your night will be restful and mindful as you prepare for your second day in northern Arizona.

DAY TWO

You’ve got a lot of ground to cover on day two, so grab an early breakfast at the Turquoise Room and some snacks for the road and begin your trek to the Petrified Forest. Filled with colorful petrified wood and an incredible diversity of fossils, these bad-

MARY BLASING

Cather’s “V-shaped” Walnut Canyon gorge is famous for its cli dwellings.

NPS/JACOB HOLGERSON

REED PARSELL

The La Posada Hotel in Winslow is a restored and somewhat reimagined Harvey House that since 1997 has been owned and operated by the husband-wife team of Allan A eldt and Tina Mion.

lands have so much history to offer. If you’re feeling adventurous, we recommend that you park your car and walk down one of the paved trails to visit the petroglyphs at Puerco Pueblo, but if the weather is bad and you’re not feeling like a walk,drive through the forest loop and visit the visitors center where you can look at complete fossils and other geological exhibits

After you’re done there, head up north to Canyon de Chelly. Located in the Navajo Nation,this vast park has been inhabited and utilized by indigenous people for millennia, and if you look closely, you can see traces of their history on the sheer canyon walls It’s a place that you could spend days at, but we recommend stopping at some of the nine overlook spots on the canyon’s rim There are six on the south side and three on the north.

Once you’ve digested the magnitude of the land and its history, head farther north to Monument Valley. It’s a place that’s been immortalized by the silver screen for its distinctive buttes and dusty plains, but it’s impossible to really appreciate the enormity of the valley without visiting in-person Now, the end of the day is fast approaching, so we recommend checking into The View Hotelandstayingthenight Withviewsfrom

ROBERT MURRAY

The iconic buttes scattered throughout Monument Valley were formed through a lengthy erosion process that has lasted about 50 million years

nearly every window, it’s the perfect place to enjoythevalleywithoutallthehassle;however, we do recommend that you book a stargazing/ moonlight tour to round out the day.If it’s a full moon,thelightwillilluminatethevalleyaswell as the sun, and if the moon isn’t out, the stars will do the work.It’s a breathtaking experience that you have to try while in the park.

DAY THREE

You’re nearing the halfway mark, but this isn’t the time to slow down We have a full day planned for you at the crest of northern Arizona, so after having an early breakfast at your hotel, head west to Page for your tour of AntelopeCanyon.Located on private land in Navajo Nation, this sought-after destination requires visitors to reserve a guided tour with one of the outfitters in the area.Lucky for you, there is no shortage of tour groups, so if you book far enough in advance, you should have no problem getting in.

Once you arrive with your group, you will understand why the people who manage the canyon are so particular about how people visit Its beauty is, truly, otherworldly The walls curve and undulate as the light from the passing day bounces off of them, so make sure to bring your camera The colors from the canyon are dynamic and baffling and make for a wonderful photography subject. Upper AntelopeCanyonisthemostpopularbutdonotforget about the lower part of the canyon, which is equally impressive, wrapping visitors up in pristine sandstone walls

After your visit to Antelope Canyon, you’re probably feeling a little hungry, so grab a big bite to eat at Big John’s Texas BBQ A plateful of food in the shade that their large patio provides hits the spot as you prepare to head off to your next stop

Now, you’ve done a lot of traveling recently, so if you want to take the day to just chill a little bit, we highly recommend enjoying Lake Powell. Grab a paddle board, rent a jet ski or simply get roasted by the hot Arizona sun, but regardless of what you decide to do, the lake will offer some solace after an exhausting few days On the other hand, if you still have some juice in you, head out to the Vermilion Cliffs located about an hour outside of Page. The swoopinghillsofthisremote,rockymonument tell a geologic history that is both fascinating and beautiful, but make sure to bring a vehicle that can handle the rough terrain Visitors will need a high-clearanced,four-wheel-drive vehicle to travel through the deep sand and unpaved roads, so keep that in mind as you plan your visit.

Antelope Canyon is one of the most beautiful places in the world, but you cannot see it without a tour So make sure to book in advance

SVEN KING

Once you’ve returned to Page, check into your hotel for the night. We recommend the Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell. They’re centrally located and have a great dine-in food option for dinner with the Prickly Pear Kitchen Their fresh and locally-inspired food will help settle your stomach as you wind down for an early night in.

DAY FOUR

Over the course of the last three days, you have seen some unique and less-appreciated natural wonders, but today, we’re going to see THE wonder; the thing that puts Arizona on the map and blows the minds of millions of visitors every year. Today, we recommend visiting the Grand Canyon.

Millions of years of erosion have made the Grand Canyon a spectacle that is unmatched on a global scale, and to do it all in a day is impossible. So, we recommend that you spend your time on the South Rim. While it is the most busy out of the park’s four entrances, the South Rim is also the most accessible and visitor friendly with shuttles available to take you to all the historic trails

ABOVE: Beams of light accentuate the curves and crevasses of the canyon walls throughout the day. The sites are, truly, otherworldly.

PAULIUS DRAGUNAS

RIGHT: Pork adobo tacos served at the Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell’s dine-in kitchen, the Prickly Pear Kitchen.

GAIL G. COLLINS

and landmarks, markets and gift shops located conveniently throughout the village and some of the best views from large and safe lookout points

During your time at the Grand Canyon, we recommend you try out a couple things.The first is a hike Now, we understand that some of the hikes at the Grand Canyon are too challenging for some people, so if you’re looking for something easy, give the Trail of Time a try Just a little over one mile, this paved trail offers those who walk it a glimpse into the geologic history of the Grand Canyon With interpretive plaques dotted along the path, the Trail of Time will fascinate and inspire the most rugged of adventurers and the most casual of observers alike If you’re up for more of a challenge, give the South Kaibab Trail a try,and even if you’re a seasoned hiker,do your best to turn around at Cedar Ridge During the summer,this three-mile trail can get absurdly hot,and if you aren’t prepared,you could be putting yourself at risk for heat stroke; however, if you are prepared and stop when you’re supposed to, you will be able to witness some of the most spectacular views in the world.

After your hike,you’ve got to stop by the VisitorsCenter They have a lot of exhibits to check out,aswellasacafewhereyoucanpurchasesome lunch, but make sure to participate in a park ranger program and watch the short,orientation

ABOVE: Day hikers looking out at the Grand Canyon from Ooh Aah Point on the South Kaibab Trail.

LEFT: Sightseers at Yaki Point standing behind a stone guard wall and viewing a vast and colorful mile-deep canyon landscape, filled with peaks and cliffs

NPS/MICHAEL QUINN PHOTOS

F lag staff Station Marke t Cafe

Open 6am to 3pm daily for breakfast and lunch. Dine indoors or out. Full Espresso Bar. Handcrafted panini sandwiches, soups and more. Vegan & Vegetar ian options. Freshly baked cinnamon rolls, croissants, cakes and more including Gluten Free! Offer ing beer, wine and canned cocktails.

Celiac and food aller gy friendly. Dog and kid friendly too!

t

JIM BRENNAN

Rock is reflected in the babbling waters of Oak Creek.

film, “Grand Canyon: A Journey of Wonder.” Both activities will inform and intrigue you as you navigate your way around the canyon, but before you go, make sure to check the center’s hours. They fluctuate based on the seasons.

To round out your day, we recommend wandering around to admire the historic buildings in the park. Currently, there are 39 historic structures that are on the National Register of Historic Places and eight more that are considered National Historic Landmarks, so while the Grand Canyon is a magnificent natural wonder, there are quite a few man-made landmarks that are very important to the history of the United States. One of these landmarks is El Tovar. Once considered the most luxurious hotel west of the Mississippi, El Tovar has remained an important stopping point for visitors since it was erected in 1905. You can stop in and learn about the earliest sightseers and travelers who considered the hotel a second home. Another must-see landmark is the Hopi House. Originally commissioned by the Fred Harvey Company and built by revolutionary architect Mary Colter, the Hopi House stands today as awe-inspiring as it did back in 1904. Modeled after the 1,000-year-old pueblo dwellings scattered around the park, visitors can enter the Hopi House and be transported back in time to learn about the lives of America’s earliest settlers. A final recommendation would be the Grand Canyon Railway Depot Considered to be one of the oldest standing wooden train depots in the United States, this historic structure is still used frequently by travelers who come up from Williams on the Grand Canyon Railway. Though you are not traveling by train, you can still check it out and learn more about the role that the railroad played in making the Grand Canyon a tourist destination in the early 1900s.

You’ve had a long day at the canyon, so we recommend heading back down to Flagsta for some grub at NiMarco’s Pizza and an early night at Little America Hotel .w Both will o er you some peace and comfort as you wind down before your final day in northern Arizona.

DAY FIVE

Congratulations! You’ve reached the end, and as a reward, we’re going to give you a little break from all the traveling that you’ve done the past couple of days and recommend visiting Sedona. It’s only about a 45-minute drive from Flagsta and is filled

with lots of fun activities that are exclusive to the Sedona area.

After grabbing some breakfast at your hotel, head down to Sedona where we rec-

ommend starting your day with a Jeep tour at Arizona Safari Jeep Tours. They are a local company with incredible guides and a wide variety of experiences for you to choose from. If you’re looking for a more mild ride, choose the Outback Trail where you don’t have to be jostled around to learn about the history of Sedona’s magnificent landscape. If you’re looking for a more rugged experience, you need to try their most popular ride, the Rim Run Supreme. On this ride you get to roll along the famous Mogollon Rim and venture into the backcountry of Sedona for a chance to see the diverse wildlife and get away from the urban hubbub.

NPS/MICHAEL QUINN

The El Tovar Hotel was once described as “the most expensively constructed and appointed log house in America.”

COURTESY

Little America is an excellent place where you can rest your head after a long day in northern Arizona.

NiMarco’s Monster Meat Pie

Once you’ve completed your Jeep tour adventure, grab a casual lunch at Canyon Breeze Restaurant before finishing out your day at Sedona’s most famous arts and shopping village, Tlaquepaque

Nestled in a grove of sycamore trees, this unforgettable experience is unlike anything that you’ve seen during your time in northern Arizona. It’s an enthusiastic community of artisans and restaurateurs that has communed in the beautifully constructed buildings since its founding in the 70s. With over 50 specialty shops and exclusive art galleries, there are hidden treasures behind every corner. From tasteful paintings to fine jewelry, this community has something to o er everyone. You could easily spend a whole day exploring the shops and admiring the stuccoed walls and natural décor, but if there’s one thing we could recommend as you finish your day, it is that you take the time to contemplate this week of experience and natural beauty. You did a lot, and we hope that you will go home with memories that will last a lifetime.

GRAEME MACLEAN Tlaquepaque is a beautiful arts and shopping village that is nestled in a grove of sycamore trees.

exposed RED MOUNTAIN

Thicktrunked junipers and stunted pinyon pines bathe in sunlight as the sky builds with fattening monsoon clouds. A stiff breeze dries the sweat on the back of the neck, keeps the body cool and aggressive flies at bay.

Reddish dirt coats the shoes, and the thick fragrance of mountain flowers tickle the nose. A rusted iron cut, as if a giant used a cleaver on the landscape, bisects the mountain and reveals the fascinating geologic beauty that typifies this part of northern Arizona

MyworkcolleagueandfriendEvanBurris andIareonthetrailatRedMountain.Itisan easyoutingwestofFlagstaffthatfewpeople make, opting instead to stay in the car and head for the Grand Canyon.

They are missing out

According to information from the U.S. Geological Survey, Red Mountain is a 740,000-year-old cinder cone volcano situated among hundreds of other cinder

An unusual view of a cinder cone

LARRY HENDRICKS

Evan Burris standing in a cinder chimney

Red Mountain Trail No. 159

Length: Three miles round trip—a great hike for children. Dogs are allowed on leash.

Difficulty: Easy—less than 500 feet elevation gain, unless you try to scramble up a cinder hill.

Directions: From Flagstaff, take U.S. Highway 180 west toward Grand Canyon for about 25 miles. Make a left at milepost 247. The dirt road goes about a quarter-mile and ends at a small parking area for the trail.

PIZZA LOCAL BEER CALZONES

SALADS WINGS

Every Fratelli Pizza starts life as homemade dough in our kitchen and is then proofed, hand tossed, mated with the freshest ingredients & baked to crispy, golden perfection.

PHOTOS BY LARRY HENDRICKS

A panorama of Red Mountain.

Burris approaching the step ladder that leads to the base of Red Mountain.

cones in the San Francisco Volcanic Field. Unlike most cinder cone volcanoes, Red Mountain’s guts are exposed to the world, revealing the geologic processes that took place in creating the rugged landscape.

The trail gradually rises toward the mountain and the “amphitheater” nestled at the base of 800-foot reddish-brown cliffs. The creation of the amphitheater is shrouded in mystery to geologists. How it happened, they don’t entirely know. The trail dips into a wash, and we follow the wash in between cinder mounds toward the shade of the amphitheater. Before we arrive at the large hollow, I suggest we climb the cinders to the east to get a better view of the volcanic field that stretches across the plateau. Hiking up loose cinders is a chore, with every two steps up leading to a brutal slide back, over and over, until the lungs burn. Eventually, we hit the ridge and are rewarded with a higher view of Red Mountain and an unobstructed view toward Slate Mountain, Kendrick Mountain and the San Francisco Peaks. The panoramic view, complete with dancing clouds gathering steam for a monsoon rain, takes the breath away.

Birdsong and insect buzz play on the breeze, and as Evan and I stroll through the dense brush clinging for dear life on the ridge’s cindery soil, we spot deer and antelope scat.

After a heart-thumping descent of sliding and slipping, we land back in the wash, climb a small ladder and head into the amphitheater. The area is filled with large, stone structures called “hoodoos” topped with solid

rocks for hats. The cli walls are pockmarked with holes and little caves, which, according to the USGS, is the result of water and wind erosion. Green, sandstone red and dark grays are featured in nature’s color palette here. The amphitheater is cooler than the sun-exposed path from the trailhead.

We hike along the sandy trail to the southeastern corner. Evan shows me a chimney of rock that we climb to get interesting views of the exposed volcanic material worn nearly smooth in areas by running water.

Other hikers sit in shaded areas and gaze at the unusual rock formations all around. Clouds, white and graying with rain, pass overhead making the light in the amphitheater dance.

I marvel at the surreal imagination of the creative force used to make Red Mountain. We gaze about with mouths open and eyes wide. Once rested from the

heat and renewed with water, we head back.

As Evan and I amble to the trailhead, we come upon a man with children. They stare at the ground and point at a horned toad scurrying through the du and stones. Evan scoops up the small reptile and holds it out for the children to touch. They approach cautiously, not entirely sure if it’s all right to touch the fearsome-looking little creature. A hand reaches out and brushes the barbs on the toad’s skin.

“The horns are soft,” says one little boy, surprised.

After the children have their fill, Evan sets the horned toad in a shaded spot o the trail, and we head on our way back to the car.

I make the decision to return on a cloudless, moonless night. The hoodoos will make a wonderful photographic landscape against the immensity of the Milky Way.

Since 1969 the Deer Farm has been enjoyed by animal lovers f rom around the world. Getting “hands on” close to such beautiful creatures is a rare opportunity Only by raising them f rom babies allows for such intimate human contact We work around the clock taking care of the animals so you can have a memory that will last a lifetime.

Located on a section of old Route 66, the Deer Farm is 10 acres of absolute animal wonderland. Walk a path around our park to view wallabies, llamas, coatimundis, bison, camel, & much more. Walk with deer, feed the deer right f rom your hands. Chat with our silly umbrella cockatoo, Mozart, pet a goat

For a small additional fee you can pet a porcupine or wallaby!

The Grand Canyon Deer Farm is Fun for ALL AGES!

For more info check out www deerfarm.com.