4 PLACES TO SEE IN
ARIZONA THAT AREN'T
THE GRAND CANYON (According to Sara)
...PLUS ONE THAT IS! JUNE 2022
ISSUE 01
NUMBER 1
NAVAJO NATIONAL MONUMENT
https://www.nps.gov/articles/navajo.htm
Located in Navajo Nation territory, this historic monument was established to preserve the dwellings of several Native American tribes who lived there for centuries, including Hopi, Navajo, and Zuni. Most notably, there are three cliff dwellings: Betatakin (Navajo for "House Built on a Ledge"), Keet Seel (Navajo for "broken pottery scattered around"), and Inscription House. Visitors cannot get too close to the dwellings, but you can take a guided hike to see them from a distance.
BEFORE YOU GO: The hike is quite steep, and for most of it, you will travel a staircase that takes you down to the bottom of the canyon. It is not recommended for those with limited mobility or fear of heights.
NUMBER 2
PAGE
PAGE, AZ
HORSESHOE BEND
BEFORE YOU GO: The end of the day is the most popular time to visit the lookout point — many visitors arrive at least an hour before sunset. Note: You will need to walk about half a mile from the parking area to the lookout point, so plan accordingly.
PAGE, AZ
ANTELOPE CANYON
BEFORE YOU GO: The upper canyon is at ground level, so it's more accessible and easier to walk. The lower canyon (pictured) takes you down into the canyon. You need to reserve your tour. It is led by a guide from the Navajo Tribe. Photo by Johannes Burkhard
NUMBER 3
WILLOW BEACH
Image source: Getty Images
Willow Beach is about 20 miles south of the Hoover Dam and gives you the chance to enjoy one of the most peaceful parts of the Colorado River as it runs between Arizona and Nevada. You can enjoy all sorts of water sports, camp, or go fishing. It's easy to spend the entire day out there and it's worth going early. Sunrise on the water is unforgettable!
BEFORE YOU GO: If you choose to get into the water, look out for a fast currents and stay in the designated swimming area.
NUMBER 4
DATELAND
There's a lot of empty desert land on the drive from Southern Arizona to Southern California. If you're looking for something fun to do on a road trip (or just want to break up that drive), have a stop in Dateland. Spend some time touring the date trees and try their unique blends of datethemed snacks.
FINALLY...
THE GRAND CANYON
Image source: Getty Images
SAFETY TIPS 1) Choose your travel dates wisely to avoid the year's hottest days. 2) Never get too close to the edge – the park is massive, and unless it's a designated path or lookout point, the ledge isn't guaranteed to be maintained. 3) Be aware of snakes and other predators. 4) Go early in the day and carry plenty of water.
IF THE HEAT SOUNDS AWFUL, REMEMBER...
THE CANYON IS MAGICAL IN
THE WINTER
ENJOY!