Discover the natural world at its most awe-inspiring in North Central Arizona. Witness its distinctive red rock buttes, clamber down into the Grand Canyon and discover artifacts from the dawn of civilization. Experience the region’s urban charms in its towns and cities, notably Flagstaff and Jerome.
Stroll through Prescott, which served as the capital of the Arizona Territory from 1864 to 1867. It still retains much of its historic charm, with its Victorian homes and vintage-style saloons in Whiskey Row. Go for a hike among the pines of Prescott National Forest.
Learn about frontier life in Fort Verde State Historic Park. Settlers founded Camp Verde in 1865, only to have it taken over by the US Army soon after to ward off Apache raids. Walk through the camp, explore its living spaces and learn about the Indian Wars.
Jerome was once dubbed “The Wickedest Town in the Wild West,” but the bordellos and saloons that lined its streets in its mining heyday have been replaced by family-friendly shops and restaurants. The town is literally built into a hillside, so have your camera ready to take advantage of the stunning panoramic views that its precarious position affords.
Have your camera handy also in Sedona to snap photos of the iconic Cathedral Rock and nearby Bell Rock. Although these formations and other remarkable red-hued sandstone rocks tend to steal the show in Sedona, the town is also thought to be a center of New Age spiritual powers.
Explore Flagstaff, located in the top of the Kaibab National Forest. What was once a way station on the road to California is now a city that embraces the arts and the outdoors with bike paths, cafés and galleries.
You must see the spectacular Grand Canyon National Park to believe it. Hike down into the canyon, ride a mule along its twisting trails or kayak through it along the Colorado River.
Visit North Central Arizona any time of year, but pack accordingly for the season. Consider beginning your visit in its lowland areas, such as Prescott and the Verde Valley, and then gradually make your way north, as the high elevation in Sedona and Flagstaff can take some getting used to.
