The 11 Very Best Places To Go In Arizona This Spring
By Monica Spencer|Published March 14, 2018
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
I think it’s safe to say that spring is almost here! For some people, that may translate to seasonal allergies, but we also have wildflowers, spring training, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. If you’re hoping to get out of the house to enjoy some of this lovely weather before the summer heat arrives, then you’re in luck! We have a wonderful list of 11 places you can visit, spend the night, or just enjoy this spring. Let’s take a look.
1. Take a drive on the Coronado Trail Scenic Byway, Arizona’s windiest road.
Old Highway 666—today known as Route 191, the Coronado Trail Scenic Byway—is Arizona’s windiest road, with an estimated 460 curves on its 123 miles. But don’t think this will be a quick trip! You’ll find yourself driving at snail’s pace on these curves, but take that time to enjoy the beautiful views.
For more information, check out our previous article here.
2. Consider booking an overnight stay at the Shady Dell down in Bisbee.
Have you ever wondered what a night in an Airstream or other vintage camping trail would be like? Book a night or two at this quirky Bisbee park and enjoy the retro vibes in the middle of the desert.
You'll find more info one of our previous articles here.
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3. Check out how incredible our dark skies are by visiting Oracle State Park.
Arizona is home to some of the darkest skies in the country and one fantastic place to visit is Oracle State Park in the northern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Bring a telescope and enjoy watching the stars and planets.
For more information, read one of our previous articles here.
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4. Embark on an easy, scenic hike on Blue Mesa Trail in Petrified Forest National Park.
An easy trail to get you moving this spring is Blue Mesa Trail at Petrified Forest. The trail is a little steep, but you’ll find the 3.5-mile loop has some truly stunning views! The badlands here display muted cool tones that look surreal.
Did you know this is Arizona’s oldest state park? This was once the Cochise County Courthouse and is a fascinating display of what law and order looked like in Wyatt Earp’s day.
For more information, read one of our previous articles here.
The Phoenix Mountains Preserve has some incredible urban hiking trails, but this one is a nice, easy path that will give you a chance to enjoy the desert scenery. I love checking out this trail and many of the others in the early morning hours as the sun is rising; the birds are chirping, the air is almost chilly, and the soft colors of morning are a soothing start to the day.
Do you ever wonder what life was like for Arizona’s early American settlers living in the Wild West? A visit to this outdoor museum will introduce you to that part of history. Explore buildings and replicas from the time period and watch reenactors bring it to life.
This trail is actually most popular in the autumn months when the aspens have shimmering golden leaves; however, we love this 1.5-mile trail throughout the year, and in the spring months, you’ll get to enjoy seeing the wildflowers popping out.
For more information, read one of our previous articles here.
10. For a scenic hike in the Sedona area that sees smaller crowds, enjoy the views on Turkey Creek Trail.
This trail is perfect for a spring morning when the temperatures are cool and the sun doesn’t quite yet feel intense. You’ll especially love how quiet this trail is compared to many of the others in the area!
For more information, read one of our previous articles here.
11. Enjoy a day of cool air, warm sunshine, and a glass of wine near vineyards when you stay at the Vineyards Bed and Breakfast in Page Springs.
That sounds absolutely ideal, don’t you think? This peaceful bed and breakfast in the Verde Valley will feel like paradise, especially with a glass of wine in hand.
For more information, read one of our previous articles here.