Arizona Vacation Source: Sep 3, 2008

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

 

Arizona Highways by Lane Mettarod

Arizona is one of my favorite states. I can usually do without deserts, but for Arizona I make the exception. Rarely is my destination Arizona, but when driving across the country it is one of my favorite stops of all. Have you seen it? Do you know what I’m talking about?
Pictures will never ever do Arizona justice, but if ever there were a magazine with fabulous pictures, it’s Arizona Highways. That’s a sentimental one for me. My grandparents subscribed. The Arizona Highways magazine was always on the table in their formal living room. I must have seen every issue for a couple of decades. Priceless. Get a copy and look: http://www.arizonahighways.com. Especially if you are considering driving to or through Arizona!

The highways of Arizona are straight and you can see forever. Don’t tell, but sometimes I just turn on the cruise control and gawk at the scenery. There’s relatively little traffic out there, too, except near the cities and tourist destinations.

Speaking of tour destinations in Arizona, you have not lived until you have visited the Grand Canyon. Trust me on this. Do not die without seeing the Grand Canyon! Take a tour while you’re there and learn some of the history and geographic information that you won’t get unless you read a book on it. Of course you can do that. Search Amazon.com and you’ll find lots of books on the Grand Canyon.

Definitely look at http://grandcanyontourcompany.com where you can find any kind of tour imaginable. There’s the raft tour, the horseback tour, the train tour, and of course, the bus tour. Their site says they’ve been doing this since 1982.

Here’s another website for Arizona information: www.arizonaguide.com/home.asp. You’ll find an interactive state map, information for kids, scenic roads and information on the Native Americans of the region. Always remember that this was their land and respect the traditions of the Native Americans.

Three words: Arizona: see it!

About the writer – Lane Mettarod was born in Arizona in the 50’s and moved away to go to school in a more temperate climate. He returns to Arizona once in a while on vacation. Read more articles about Arizona at [http://www.computecarizona.com]Computec Arizona
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lane_Mettarod http://EzineArticles.com/?Arizona-Highways&id=75560

 

Arizona Hiking Trails - Follow More Than a Prickly Path

Did you know that Arizona's state flower is the Flower of Saguaro Cactus? Can you guess Arizona's state bird? It's the Cactus Wren. There are even districts, towns and national parks named after this spiny vegetation. You may see the correlation already.
When American's think of Arizona, spontaneous images of great deserts, arid and empty lands with monster cacti come to mind. One portrayal you might never imagine, however, is the beauty of Arizona's Hiking Trails. Hiking trails in Arizona crisscross the entire state. If you're planning a backpacking trip in Arizona, then you are wise to try some of these eminent, almost legendary, hiking trails. Here's where to go and how best to plan for some of Arizona's most diverse hiking trails-where you're guaranteed to see more than just cacti.
For you trekking junkies, Arizona's Paria Canyon Trail bestows over 37 miles of trail, canyons and sandstone features. The narrow canyons that make up the majority of Paria Canyon Trail are a feature seldom seen by idle passerby. Near the border of Utah, the Paria Canyon Trail literally crowns the top of the state and is a top hiking trail in Arizona. This trail may be easier for those trampers who don't like hills-There are only slight elevation gains along the whole route.
If you're compromised by the days spent hiking, perhaps the South Kaibab Trail will keep your feet inspired. This hiking trail in Arizona is a much smaller backpacking trip than the aforementioned Paria Canyon Trail. At just 14 miles, you'll be able to glide down this trail in two or (for a stretch) three days. This trail offers some of the easiest means to the Colorado River. You'll want to load up your hiking poles and other necessary over-night camping equipment, such as hydration packs and canteens, for both the Paria and South Kaibab Trails.
If you're not one to believe in superstition, perhaps the Arizona trails of Superstition Mountain will alter your sensibilities. This hiking trail in Arizona, or the Mountains at least, can be seen from the Apache Junction. You'll hike the ridgelines and traverse cross-country settings, all for the namesake of hiking. Just atop 19 miles long, this Arizona hiking trail furnishes a multi-day hike for those a bit more hardcore.
Or, if you want a piece of the superstitious mountain, jump on the Massacre Grounds Trail (3 miles). You won't need a compass, but be sure to pack the umbrella, chairs, cooler and grill. Do a picnic lunch and learn about the Spanish miners who were sadly ambushed here not so long ago.
Hiking trails in Arizona render a new meaning to Mother Nature. The natural world carved here allows trekkers to see the past seemingly frozen in the rock formations. The colorful hues create a world unlike anywhere else in the US. Be sure to pack your best camping equipment and hiking gear for the state that offers some of the sharpest (cactus pun intended) trails you'll ever ramble across.
Merely Camping is your last shop stop for all sorts of camping needs and camping equipment. Visit our online store and find out what you'll need for your ultimate hiking or camping vacation at http://www.merelycamping.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terrance_Dean_Hollowell http://EzineArticles.com/?Arizona-Hiking-Trails---Follow-More-Than-a-Prickly-Path&id=1254967

 

I LOVE ARIZONA - THE GRAND CANYON STATE!

I created this blog to post articles and information on the great places to see, wonderful places to stay and fun things to do throughout the beautiful state of Arizona! From the Grand Canyon to Sedona, Lake Powell, historic Tombstone, Bisbee and beyond - sightseeing, hiking, biking, golfing, boating and shopping - there's something for everyone in Arizona!

Please share your stories and experiences as you travel and explore this great state!

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