Many Reasons Arizona is the Best State

We are known for the heat, and cactus and desert landscapes. I get it. But Arizona is so much more than that. If you have never visited, let me show you some of the reasons to come check us out.

I will start with the obvious. The Grand Canyon. We are that state. One of the wonders of the world and if you have ever stood on the edge and looked down to the Colorado River, It’s simply breathtaking. I will go a bit further. Five years ago my husband and I hiked it. Yep, all the way down the Kaibab Trail carrying a backpack of, well everything. You need to pack in pack out, that’s the rules. On this particular trail, there are no water stations. So that goes in your pack too. With a permit, you can camp at the bottom in tents. We stayed for two nights next to a creek where we had beautiful deer visit us several times during our stay. We chose the Bright Angel Trail for the trip up. It does have water stations and seemed a bit “easier” if that can even be said. All worth it if you ever get the chance.
Our beautiful Snow-capped mountains. Yes, mountains and snow. For those who have never been to Arizona, you may not realize we have mountains and yes snow in the winter on them. Down south to Mount Lemon to north to Flagstaff and east to the White Mountains, we get snow everywhere. We even have skiing. Attractions such as Snowbowl in Flagstaff or Sunrise Park in Greer. No need to go anywhere else to ski or enjoy the snow.
How about taking the boat out? Yep, we have lakes, many of them. Theodore Rosevelt is one of our best, named after, yes the President. It’s a fun place to hang out with the family.
Do you Golf? We have just an amazing number of beautiful Golf Courses. From Verrado Golf Club in Buckeye to Raven Golf Club in Phoenix, to Camelback Golf Club in Scottsdale and the list goes on and on. In the winter golfing gets expensive, so shop around. Of course, if you love the heat, summers you can get a deal at any of these clubs.
For those history buffs, check out the Native Amerian Cliff Dwellings, like the Montezuma Castle located in Camp Verde. It’s amazing to see the walls basically their version of brick and mortar construction. Using limestone and mud and stone from the base of the mountain, the Hohokam and Hakataya built this livable intricate structure they called home.
What about our awesome Colleges? Tempe is the home of Arizona State University, South in Tucson is the University of Arizona, and north to Flagstaff is Northern Arizona University. Sure to fit every academic wish. What to ask during your campus tour?

Our weather allows for outdoor activities pretty much year-round. Yes its warm in the summer, but for us locals, it just means we hike or bike early. Bring plenty of water and wear a hat and sunscreen and you are good to go. Check out some of the best hiking and biking trails in Arizona.