Arizona
The weather in the Grand Canyon State is not for the faint of heart. To say that it’s hot there is an understatement. The average high in August is 103 and the low is 79. Living here in Michigan even the low sounds good right about now. The northern part of Arizona, right around the Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon, gets rain and is considerably cooler than the southern region of the state. On the west side of the state is the lower deserts and on the river, it’s warm. Yuma, Lake Havasu City, and Parker all are hotter than Phoenix and Tucson (found in the upper desert). So weather aside, when you think of Arizona you think of the classic west, deserts, Native American culture, museums and some of the greatest natural wonders in the world.
Whenever my calendar and budget says it’s OK, I’m looking forward to visiting Sedona. Is this really the energy capital of the world? Maybe so maybe not. But you’ve got to have a glide down the natural water chute at Slide Rock State Park. Then take a walk down the West Fork Trail. For the history and nature buffs take a tour of the prehistoric Sinaguan ruins, including Montezuma’s Castle and Toozigoot national monuments located in the Verde Valley. The Fort Verde State Historic Park honors history from the frontier days. Visitors have also been known to spot a bald eagle.
Fossil Springs
One of the most awesome springs in Arizona. They pump out thousands of gallons of crystal clear, 72-degree water every minute. The springs are secluded enough to keep the crowds to a minimum and still be accessible enough for day hikers. This may be an adventure best suited for adults and teenagers. Toddlers would be worn out and you’d be as cranky as they.
Grand Canyon
You absolutely can’t visit Arizona without going to the Grand Canyon. You can explore the canyon by foot, or take a bus tour. If water sports are your thing then rafting the Grand Canyon is said to be one of the most exciting adventure tours ever. If you don’t want to get wet you can see it from above with a heli-tour.
Go to: http://www.grandcanyoncoaches.com
www.TourVacationsTogo.com
Now that you experienced Sedona, rafted the canyon, checked out the springs and the culture; it’s time to play golf. Provided of course that you can take the heat. The desert target style courses represent a type of course that is exceptional. A state as fascinating as Arizona can only be home to the most fascinating golf courses. They boast over 300 courses throughout the state. No doubt you’ll find one with a favorable style and that’s budget friendly. There are public courses and PGA Championship links. Here’s an interesting tidbit. By state law, there is a limit to how much water Arizona golf courses can use for irrigation. So developers came up with challenging desert target courses that have minimal fairways. Due to their popularity you might find it easier to get tee time in some of the Tucson golf courses rather than Phoenix. Check out www.golfbellaire.com for weekly web specials.
Don’t overlook Arizona for great family trip deals. You can beat the heat and you can have the adventure of a lifetime.
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