Fascination USA: Arizona – the perfect destination for adventurers and explorers
Arizona in the southwest of the USA is a dream destination for adventurers and explorers. We have put together the best tips for the perfect adventure holiday for you.
Outdoor activities in a unique natural setting, including history and culture: If you appreciate this mix, Arizona is a holiday destination that will give you unforgettable moments. And no matter which region you choose – adventure and discovery are guaranteed. Be inspired by the diversity and beauty of Arizona…
fishing and fly fishing
Arizona is rich in fish species such as catfish, rainbow trout and walleye. Various types of perch and carp also feel at home in the lakes and rivers. The best conditions to reach for a fishing rod!
Fly fishing is particularly popular with the locals. The feather-light, hand-made lures are true works of art and the technique differs from conventional fishing. Why not just give it a try?
And now to the hotspots: If you are traveling in the north of the country, the White Mountains with their extensive lakes and Lees Ferry near Page at the foot of the Grand Canyon are recommended for an extended fishing trip. It is also recommended to visit the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge near Yuma in southern Arizona near the border with Mexico. There, the Colorado River lures with rich fish stocks and lots of nature experiences.
Horseback riding and Wild West romance
The horses are taken care of, now the riders are sitting around the campfire and reviewing the day – a scene that appears in almost every cowboy film. Arizona offers friends of such romantic moments a lot of opportunity to experience exactly that, because spread over the entire state you will find some very large ranches, which are the start and finish for extended day rides and offer comfortable accommodation.
One of the most impressive is undoubtedly the Tanque Verde Ranch in southwestern Arizona. Near Saguaro National Park, explore the Sonoran Desert on historic trails with local Boy Scouts and feel transported back to the time of the first settlers.
Another tip for an eventful holiday in the saddle is the Grand Canyon Western Ranch near the Nevada border. The resort offers excursions for both beginners and advanced and is ideal for a holiday with children, as pony rides and covered wagon rides are also on the programme.
A third highlight among ranches in Arizona is the Rancho de la Osa in the south of the state. It is considered the most historic ranch in the country and offers you that pure cowboy feeling with long rides through high grassland in front of an imposing mountain backdrop.
Kayaking on rivers and lakes
When exploring Arizona by car, a kayak is essential.
After all, completely new perspectives of the breathtaking landscapes of the Grand Canyon and Co open up from the water.
A special experience awaits you on the Lower Salt River at Mesa near Phoenix. The wild horses that live on its banks are not disturbed by canoeists and kayakers while grazing and bathing in the river and are a popular photo motif.
The rounded granite rocks on the shores of Watson Lake near Prescott are no less photogenic. Not only canoeists and kayakers cavort here, the lake is also ideal terrain for SUP boards. If you don’t have your own equipment with you, no problem: At “ Prescott Outdoors“ you can rent just about anything that gets you on the water.
Another lake to explore is Lake Powell near Page. Its canyons are spectacular and the destination of many water sports enthusiasts. While water sports are easily available, due to the drought, the water level has dropped, revealing the amazing caves and geological formations of the Glen Canyon uncovered, which have been under water since 1963. Tip: To experience the highlights of these rocky landscapes, we recommend a guided tour.
Wander through a world of contrasts
Hiking is the best way to discover some of Arizona’s most beautiful parts. Lake landscapes, bizarrely shaped rocks, cactus gardens… the variety makes it difficult to decide.
A true “must do” is a tour of the Hassayampa River Conservation Area near Prescott. Here you hike along the wildly overgrown shoreline, through poplar and willow forests and finally reach Palm Lake, home to rare waterfowl.
A total contrast to this is the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. Steeped in history, the path leads almost 2,000 kilometers through deserts and forests and past cities like Tucson and offers plenty of opportunities to get to know Arizona from its most original side.
A third highlight and a real insider tip for hikers are guided tours through Wind Pebble Canyon or Rams Head Canyon, both not far from Page. The rugged rock formations glowing in rich colors are a sight to behold.
Star tents within reach
Not only during the day, but also at night, Arizona is a country of outdoor adventures – keyword starry sky. The US state is one of the top spots in the world to observe the night sky. You have the choice between observatory and wilderness, whereby a combination is recommended.
The Lowell Observatory at Flagstaff and that Kitt Peak National Observatory south of Tucson are among the most popular places to see space and make great day trips from these cities.
But even the “wild” Arizona has a lot to offer when it comes to the stars – for example this Chiricahua National Monument near the Mexican border. There is no light pollution here – the best conditions for night-time “star-watching”.
The cactus gardens of the Chiricahua National Monument offer a completely different backdrop than the bizarre rocks of the Chiricahua National Monument Saguaro National Park at Tucson for the Star Spectacle. And that’s not all: Also the starry skies over the San Tan Mountain Regional Park and the Oracle State Park are pure fascination. Off to Arizona!
Ready for Arizona’s outdoor adventure world? Then let’s go – with a direct flight from/to Frankfurt. It couldn’t be more comfortable! All information for your perfect vacation in Arizona can be found at visitarizona.com. See you soon!