2 0 0 8 - 2 0 0 9
& V I S I T O R ’ S
G U I D E
VISITCOTTONWOODAZ.ORG
W
Welcome
Though the Verde Valley is as pleasant as its name suggests, perhaps the powers that be should rename this region Variety Valley. From landscapes to historical treasures to family attractions, to climate, the Verde Valley has it all. In the shadows of Mingus Mountain and in the heart of the Verde Valley, Cottonwood offers a distinctive historic district lined with shops and restaurants on its Main Street. Nearby Clarkdale is where you catch the thrill-packed Verde Canyon Railroad ride followed by an old west dinner and show at the Blazin’ M Ranch. Cornville offers wineries, tasting rooms and a relaxed take on some of Arizona’s most pristine high-desert scenery. Camp Verde is home to Montezuma Castle National Monument, an ancient cliff dwelling dating to 1150 A.D. that towers above the valley. Camp Verde also serves up casino gambling and the recently relocated Out of Africa Wildlife Park, where safari tours bring you face-to-face with lions and tigers and zebras, oh, my! No Verde Valley excursion would be complete without a journey to Jerome, the “City in the Sky.” Once a thriving mining camp of 15,000, Jerome acquired “ghost town” status by the 1960s. Today, entrepreneurs have restored many of the quaint buildings that cling to the mountainside and the town now dishes out artsy boutiques and panoramic views in equal measure. Speaking of views, Sedona’s stark, giant, red rock formations are so compelling, they cause grown men to take up painting or poetry. Toss in dozens of superb shops, galleries, restaurants and recreational opportunities, and Sedona has found a magical elixir.
Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce 1010 S. Main St., Cottonwood, AZ 86326 p. 928.634.7593 • visitcottonwoodaz.org Produced and Published in conjunction with Hennen Publishing and Marketing Group p. 480.664.0541 • hennenpmg.com Photography Susan & Russell Beach, Beach’s On Location p. 928.639.3374 • beachsonlocation.com Cover Photo: Verde River Published annually, every effort is made to make this publication as accurate as possible. Cottonwood/Verde Valley and Hennen Publishing will assume no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.
2
•
vi si t cot t onwooda z . org
TOP: World’s Largest Kokopelli
Cottonwood/Verde Valley 2008-2009 Official Visitors Guide
V
Located in the ‘heart’ of Arizona, the Verde Valley is ideally situated above the heat of the desert and below the cold of Arizona’s high country. Surrounded by the red rocks of Sedona, Mingus Mountain elevating to 8,000’ to the west, and the Mogollon Rim stretching north and east, its low elevation of 3,300’ and moderate climate is enjoyed year-round. With its state parks, historic sites and enticing attractions, the Verde Valley offers activities for all ages. There is an assortment of hotels, RV Parks, campgrounds and restaurants to choose from, all within close proximity to the parks, attractions, wineries and Old Town Cottonwood. Plan to stay a few days; you will need them to see all there is throughout the Verde Valley. Ancient civilizations, with their unique history and cultures, are here to explore. More than 100 species of birds reside at Dead Horse Ranch State Park and Native American history abounds at Tuzigoot National Monument.
E
Kf K_\ >iXe[ :Xepfe (/' -+
=cX^jkX]] N`cc`Xdj
+'
Jc`[\ IfZb JkXk\ GXib
/08
J\[feX (.
I\[ IfZb JkXk\ GXib
(.0
/08
M\i[\ :Xepfe IX`cifX[
:cXib[Xc\
AXm\c`eX C\Xg M`e\pXi[ N`e\ip FXb :i\\b N`e\ip Klq`^ffk Ekc% Dfeld\ek GX^\ Jgi`e^j :\ccXij N`e\ip 9cXq`eË D IXeZ_ DX ;\X[ ?fij\ IXeZ_ JkXk\ GXib `e
:fiem`cc\
Jk
:fkkfenff[ : :fkkfenff[ :_XdY\i fi em 8cZXekXiX f] :fdd\iZ\ `cc\ I[ M`e\pXi[j N`e\ip A\ifd\ % /08 JkXk\ GXib %
A\ifd\ N`e\ip
A\ifd\
(.
Gi\jZfkk
4
vi si t cot tonwooda z . org
M 9Xi M G\kif^cpg_ J`k\ (
(.
)-'
>fc[ B`e^ D`e\
•
M`ccX^\ f] FXb :i\\b
8iZfjXek` Kf G_f\e`o
Dfek\qldX :Xjkc\ Ekc% Dfeld\ek
Dfek\qldX N\cc =fik M\i[\ JkXk\ GXib :Xdg
M\i[\
)-'
A
Arizona
State Map
UTAH
NEVADA
North Grand Canyon Rim Supai National Park Hualapai Grand Hilltop Canyon Village
Hoover Dam
40
r
Lake Havasu City Rive
CALIFORNIA
89
Canyon de Chelly N.M.
Wupatki Window N.M Rock Sunset Crater Williams Volcano N.M. 40 Walnut Winslow Flagstaff 89 Canyon N.M. Petrified Tuzigoot N.M. Sedona Mormon Lake 40 Holbrook 180 Forest Jerome Montezuma N.P. 666 Cottonwood Castle N.M. Cornville Heber Prescott Camp Show Low Verde 89 Payson 17 Springerville Pinetop-Lakeside Wickenburg Greer Hon-Dah Carefree 60 Alpine 60 Fountain Hills Fort Apache Peoria PHOENIX Scottsdale Tonto N.M. Glendale Mesa 666 Globe Tempe Apache Avondale Chandler Junction 70 Casa Grande N.M.
93
Parker
Quartzsite 60 10
95
LEGEND Points of Interest National Parks and Monuments Important Roads Divided Highways Scenic Roads Interstate Highways
8
89 10
Ajo Organ Pipe Cactus N.M.
Mt Lemmon
Tucson Saguaro N.P.
10
Saguaro N.P.
19
Tubac Rio Rico Nogales
89 U.S. Highways 73 State Highways
Tombstone 666 Sierra Vista Bisbee
80
Douglas
MEXICO
T E MP E R AT URE S A ND PR ECIPITATION The Verde Valley’s climate is ideal for year-round visitation. Due to its low elevation of 3,300’, visitors tend to enjoy moderate climate year-round.
Month
Daily Min.
Daily Max.
Avg. Total Prec. (Inches)
January February March April May June July August September October November December Yearly Average
28.1 31.7 35.6 41.9 49.2 57.8 65.9 63.8 57.4 46.4 35.6 28.7 45.2
58.1 63.3 68.3 76.3 84.8 94.8 98.5 95.5 91.3 81.2 68.1 58.6 78.2
0.77 0.78 0.85 0.54 0.38 0.50 1.89 2.22 1.08 1.04 0.73 1.05 11.84
Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
5
40
NEW MEXICO
Bullhead City
Colorado
191
89
Kingman
8
160
Navajo N.M.
180
93
Yuma
COLORADO
64 Glen Canyon N.R.A. 163 Monument Valley 89 Page Tribal Park
15
C
Cottonwood The Town of Cottonwood began as a campground and stop-over for travelers to Oak Creek, Beaver Creek and Camp Verde. It was one of three main crossings over the Verde River. Cottonwood became a supplier of fresh produce to the copper miners in Jerome in the early years of the 20th century. Today, it is the commercial hub of the Verde Valley and is home to a number of antique shops, fine restaurants, art galleries and festivals throughout the year. Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce, 928.634.7593, visitcottonwoodaz.org Historic Old Town Shops, galleries and restaurants line Main Street and provide the backdrop for this quaint and colorful historic district. The unique Cottonwood Jail stands guard at the top of Main Street. Allow two hours.
Pine Shadows Golf Course This par-3 executive course, located at the base of Mingus Mountain, offers nine holes that strategically meander through the surrounding high-desert terrain. 928.634.1093. Tee time reservations recommended. Blazin’ M Ranch Chuckwagon & Western Stage Show The Blazin’ M Ranch offers an authentic western evening. Stroll through the Old West town complete with shopping, Old-Tyme photos and cowboy activities, then enjoy hearty trail vittles and listen to authentic foot stompin’ cowboy music, comedy and tales of days gone by. The food is great and the entertainment is outstanding. 928.634.0334, 800.937.8643. Ranch opens at 5pm and dinner is served at 6:30pm. Reservations recommended. Allow three hours.
6
•
vi si t cot tonwooda z . org
TOP: Downtown Cottonwood RIGHT: Blazin’ M Ranch
Cottonwood’s River Walk - ‘Jail Trail’ For a self-guided Riparian Gallery Forest Tour, pick up a brochure at the Jail Trail trailhead located behind the Old Town Jail. The trail is part of the Verde River Greenway, a unit of Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Early birders may get a glimpse at the many birds that live and migrate through the area, as well as more common animals such as deer, raccoon, coyote, beaver and Javelina. Allow one hour.
Clemenceau Heritage Museum Rooms and display cases filled with artifacts focus on Verde Valley history. The Railroad Room depicts miles of railroad during the early mining and smelting days. Volunteers and donations keep the museum operating. Two major fund-raisers during the year include the annual Zeke Taylor Barbecue in November and the Crafts American Style Show in February. 928.634.2868. Wednesday: 9am-noon. Friday-Sunday: 11am-3pm. Closed major holidays. Located at 1 N. Willard. Donations appreciated. Allow one hour.
Artisan Ice Cream & Gelato Made On-Site Also Featuring Espresso and Desserts 917 N. Main Street in Historic Old Town Open Wed-Mon 12-8
Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
7
C
Clarkdale
The Verde Canyon Railroad The Verde Canyon Railroad is considered Arizona’s longestrunning nature show. The remote wilderness of the Verde Canyon is renowned for its towering, red rock pinnacles, clean, green waters, Indian ruins, tunnels, trestles and clear, azure skies. This picturesque setting is further enhanced by the variety of indigenous flora and fauna, the many migrating waterfowl, and bald eagles that winter in this riparian respite each year. Though it is possible to hike the canyon, riding the rails of the Verde Canyon Railroad is the most comfortable and entertaining way to experience it. 928.639.0010, 800.293.7245. Most trains depart daily at 1pm. Reservations required. Allow four hours. Tuzigoot National Monument Approximately 800 years ago, this Sinagua pueblo was home to the Native American population once inhabiting this area. The site is comprised of 42 acres, including hiking trails (one wheelchair accessible) and a complete museum. Visitors are escorted through the various rooms of the pueblo to view this ancient civilization. Images, etched in stone, help tell the tale of daily life. 928.634.5564. Open daily at 9am. Fee area. Allow half day.
8
•
vi si t cot tonw ooda z . org
TOP: Verde Canyon Railroad RIGHT: Verde Santa Fe Golf Club
Home to the Verde Canyon Railroad, Clarkdale was laid out in 1914 near the site of the existing smelter, which was built in 1910. It processed ore from nearby Jerome until 1952. Clarkdale was a company town, built with modern amenities. The mining and smelter sites, along with the Clarkdale Memorial Clubhouse, are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. Clarkdale hosts a number of community events, including an art festival and Independence Day celebration. Clarkdale Chamber of Commerce, 928.634.9438, clarkdalechamber.com
C
Cornville
Don’t expect to find rows of cornfields in the small town of Cornville. For a unique small town experience and the opportunity to enjoy Oak Creek without crowds, a trip to Cornville has it all. Check out Eliphante, a three-acre outdoor art experience. For fine dining, the Manzanita Inn is known throughout the Verde Valley as one of the most popular dining experiences. 928.634.8851. Verde Santa Fe Golf Club Golf enthusiasts of all levels can enjoy this par 71 layout at just over 3,300’ elevation. Verde Santa Fe offers a memorable round of golf overlooking the beautiful landscape of the Verde Valley framed by Mingus Mountain. This is an 18-hole course playable at all levels. 928.634.5454. Tee time reservations recommended.
Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
9
JJerome
Nicknamed “The City in the Sky,” Jerome was at one time the most talked about mining camp in America and is listed on the National Historic Register. Its population went from 15,000 in its heyday to a “ghost town” of under 50 people, to its role today, as a center for the arts with unique shops, galleries, dining and lodging. The Jerome Mine Museum on Main Street brings to life the challenges and triumphs achieved during the booming mining era. This scenic view of the entire Verde Valley offers wonderful photographic opportunities. Jerome Chamber of Commerce, 928.624.2900, azjerome.com.
Gold King Mine The Gold King Mine displays early machinery of the mining era in Jerome and will round out this step back in time. 928.634.0053. Open daily 9am-5pm.
10
•
vi si t cottonw ooda z . org
TOP: Downtown Jerome
Jerome State Historic Park The Douglas Mansion at Jerome State Historic Park has been an eye-catching landmark in Jerome since 1916, and is now a museum devoted to the mining history of Jerome and the Douglas family. It features photographs, artifacts, minerals, a period room and a “3-D” model of the town including the underground mines. 928.634.5381.
Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
11
C
Camp Verde
Fort Verde State Historic Park General Crook’s U.S. Army scouts and soldiers were primarily based at Fort Verde. They were charged with preventing Apache and Yavapai Indian uprisings in the late 1800s. Some of the original buildings remain. Its officers’ quarters are open to visitors and a museum is located in the old headquarters building. 928.567.3275. Fee area. Montezuma Castle National Monument and Montezuma Well This ancient cliff dwelling dates back to 1150. The Castle stands in a cliff recess 100 feet above the valley. Montezuma Well, also part of the monument, is a natural limestone sinkhole, and was an important source of water for the Sinagua Indians. The Castle stands as one of the most well-preserved cliff dwellings in North America. 928.567.3322. $2 for adults, children are free. Summer hours MaySept.: 8am-7pm; Winter hours Sept.-May: 8am-5pm. Located at 2800 Montezuma Castle Road off Interstate 17 at exit 289.
12
•
vi si t cottonw ooda z . org
TOP: Out of Africa Wildlife Park RIGHT: Montezuma Castle National Monument
Camp Verde offers a blend of ancient cultures, military influence and ranching heritage. It is a small town that began with farms and cattle ranches. Camp Verde Chamber of Commerce, 928.567.9294, campverde.org.
Out of Africa Wildlife Park Right in the heart of Arizona, walk or ride Safari vehicles through the Serengeti or Wildlife Preserve to get up close and personal with large predators such as lions, tigers, giraffe, wildebeest and zebra as they prowl their natural environment. Photo opportunities abound! 928.567.2840 Cliff Castle Casino Family-friendly, with Kids Quest, a bowling alley, four restaurants, a Lodge, blackjack, poker and 660+ machines. Cliff Castle Casino has it all. 928.567.7900, cliffcastlecasino.net. Open daily.
Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
13
S
Sedona Sedona is surrounded by magnificent red rock formations and offers world-class restaurants, numerous art galleries and hundreds of unique shops. There are many arts and cultural activities plus golf, hiking, balloon rides and bi-plane tours. Several Jeep tour companies offer the unique experience of traveling through the red rock canyons and areas otherwise forbidden to motor travel. Sedona Chamber of Commerce, 928.282.7722, 800.288.7336, visitsedona.com. Oak Creek Factory Stores Outlet Mall The Prime Outlet Stores in the Village of Oak Creek offer great savings, restaurants and designer shops such as BASS, Ann Taylor and Tommy Hilfiger. 928.284.2150. Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village Tlaquepaque is a recreated Mexican village that hosts a myriad of shops and restaurants offering unique and unexpected cultural experiences. Visitors find art galleries, a brewery and a French-cuisine restaurant among the shops of this artisan Mecca. 928.282.4838. tlaq.com.
Since 1958, Pink Jeep Tours has been providing the most talked about off-road adventures in the Southwest. Our award-winning excursions are known as the premier “must-do” tours in Sedona. YOU GOTTA DO IT! Please call for more information. 204 N. Highway 89A, 928.282.5000, 800.873.3662, pinkjeep.com
14
•
vi si t cottonwooda z . org
TOP: Red Rock Crossing State Park
Chapel of the Holy Cross Built in 1956, designed by Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a pupil of Frank Lloyd Wright, the Chapel appears to rise out of the surrounding red rocks. The towering cross and awesome panorama of buttes, valley and sky are a source of inspiration inviting rest and reflection. This site presents incredible photo opportunities in all directions. 928.282.4069.
Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
15
Ancient Ruins Petroglyphs 1,032 individual petroglyphs have been identified on 13 panels at the V-Bar-V Ranch Prehistoric Rock Art Site. They are outstanding examples of the Beaver Creek style found throughout the eastern half of Verde Valley. 928.284.5323. Palatki Ruins Palatki (Hopi for “red house”), is a cliff dwelling sheltered in a Supai sandstone overhang, constructed by the Southern Sinagua people who inhabited the area from approximately 650 to 1300. A most outstanding pictograph site, walls display art from archaic cultures extending back over 6,000 years to the work of the Sinagua, the Yavapai and Apache Tribes of historic times. Coconino National Forest. For reservations call 928.282.3854. Honanki Ruins Honanki held one of the largest population centers in the Verde Valley, primarily occupied 1130 through 1280. Honanki consisted of about 60 rooms and a number of pictographs. The 700-year-old well-preserved ruins and the rock art on the walls are fascinating. Coconino National Forest. Fee area.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Dead Horse Ranch State Park 675 Dead Horse Ranch Road, Cottonwood, 928.634.5283
Thousand Trails RV Resort Hwy. 260 at Milepost 211, Cottonwood, 928.567.9562
Distant Drums RV Resort 583 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, 877.577.5507, distantdrumsrvresort.com
Turquoise Triangle RV Park 2501 E. Hwy. 89A, Cottonwood, 928.634.5294, 888.994.7275
Mountain Vu RV Court 11295 Cornville Road, Cornville, 928.639.2984
Zane Grey RV Park 4500 E. Hwy. 260, Camp Verde, 928.567.4320
Sunrise Resorts, Page Springs 1951 N. Page Springs Road, Cornville, 928.634.4309
Medical Center
Verde Valley Medical Center 269 S. Candy Lane, Cottonwood, 928.634.2251, verdevalleymedicalcenter.com
20
•
vi si t co ttonwooda z . org
Recreational Parks Dead Horse Ranch State Park Offering excellent camping and RV facilities, the park attracts the recreational user. Twenty acres of lagoons are stocked with rainbow trout from November through March or you can get in your canoe and journey downstream on the Verde River. With a phenomenal trail system, the park offers many opportunities for wildlife viewing, bird watching, fishing, hiking, biking and horseback riding. Trail rides by Trail Horse Adventures are now available in the park, 866.958.7245. Over 100 species of birds have been identified in the immediate confines of the park, which is home to the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival the last weekend in April, birdyverde.org. 928.634.5283. Fee area. Allow half day. Red Rock State Park – Center for Environmental Education Hiking trails and beautiful vistas attract visitors to this unique park nestled along the riparian cottonwood/sycamore corridor of Oak Creek. The visitor center offers displays and theater presentations on the area, and the gift shop features books on nature-related topics. Available daily are guided nature walks by rangers and volunteer naturalists. In addition, special programs occur throughout the year. 928.282.6907. Fee area.
LEFT: Palatki Ruins RIGHT: Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock State Park Slide Rock State Park offers an easy walk past old cabins and the flourishing famed Oak Creek apple orchard. Continue on to the stairs and trail that leads to Oak Creek, where water rushes through natural red rock sluices. In the summertime, kids and adults love to ride the water down these sluices, sunning themselves afterward on the rocks. 928.282.3034. Oak Creek Canyon The “switchbacks” of Oak Creek Canyon may seem a bit unnerving, but are well worth the drive to the top. The Scenic Overlook offers a fantastic view of the Canyon and beyond. There may be Native American hand-made jewelry and craft items to pick up as an authentic souvenir. Oak Creek Visitors’ Center, 928.282.4119. Red Rock Crossing, Cathedral Rock and Crescent Moon Recreation Area At Crescent Moon Recreation Area, visitors walk along Oak Creek and see impressive views with unbelievable photo opportunities of Cathedral Rock. Sedona Ranger Station, 928.282.4119. Crescent Moon/Red Rock Crossing, 928.204.1389. Fee area. Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
21
Accommodations Beaver Creek Inn 4225 N. Montezuma Ave., Rimrock, 928.567.8560 This newly remodeled inn is near Sedona and next to the Beaver Creek Golf Course. See ad on page 23. Belle Casa Bed & Breakfast 180 Verde St., Clarkdale, 928.634.0717 Best Western Cottonwood Inn 993 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.5575, 877.873.1296, bestwesterncottonwoodinn.com Experience the Sedona-Verde Valley while staying at Best Western Cottonwood Inn. Rest in the West with the Best. See ad on page 23. Best Western Inn of Sedona 1200 W. Hwy. 89A, Sedona, 928.282.3072, innofsedona.com Budget Inn & Suites 1089 S. Hwy. 260, Cottonwood, 928.634.3678 Connor Hotel of Jerome 164 Main St., Jerome, 928.634.5006, 800.523.3554, connorhotel.com Charm meets comfort! Lovely historic hotel in the heart of
22
•
vi si t cottonw ooda z . org
Jerome with many luxurious amenities and special touches. See ad on page 11. Cottonwood Super 8 800 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.639.1888 Cove Parkway Rentals 960 Cove Pkwy., Cottonwood, 928.634.3026 Days Inn & Suites of Camp Verde 1640 W. Finnie Flat Road, Camp Verde, 928.567.3700, 800.747.9011 Days Inn & Suites is centrally located between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon, within walking distance to many restaurants. See ad on page 23. Flying Eagle Country Bed & Breakfast 2700 Windmill Lane, Clarkdale, 928.634.0663 Hampton Inn 1800 W. Hwy. 89A, Sedona, 928.282.4700 Jerome Grand Hotel 200 Hill St., Jerome, 928.634.8200, 888.817.6788 Little Daisy Motel 34 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.7865 Los Abrigados Resort & Spa 160 Portal Lane, Sedona, 928.282.1777
TOP: Verde River
Annabel Inn, The Bed & Breakfast 611 N. 7th St., Cottonwood, 928.649.3038
Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
23
Accommodations CONTINUED
The Lodge at Cliff Castle Casino 333 Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, 928.567.6611, 800.524.6343, cliffcastlecasino.net Steps away from Cliff Castle Casino, The Lodge offers 80 rooms with southwestern dĂŠcor, convenient dining, meeting rooms, banquet facilities, and a free 24-hour shuttle to the casino. See ad on page 13.
Quality Inn Cottonwood 301 W. Hwy. 89A, Cottonwood, 928.634.4207 Amazingly quiet rooms with best continental breakfast in town. Banquet facilities, tour packages, bus parking, restaurant and bar/lounge. Central to all Verde Valley sights. See ad on page 23.
Page Springs Bed & Breakfast 2500 N. Page Springs Road, Cornville, 928.634.4335
View Motel 818 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.7581
Pines Motel 920 S. Camino Real, Cottonwood, 928.634.9975, 800.483.9618
24
•
vi si t co ttonwooda z . org
Sycamore Springs Guest House 475 Merritt Ranch Road, Cornville, 928.634.4033
Attractions Air Grand Canyon Prescott, 928.776.6000, 800.247.4726, airgrandcanyon.com Arizona Helicopter Adventures 928.282.0904, azheli.com Sightseeing tours of Sedona and Northern Arizona. Experience the best views from a comfortable Bell Jet Ranger Helicopter with an in-flight narrative by a highlyskilled pilot. See ad on page 15. Arcosanti – Cosanti Foundation Mayer, 928.632.7135, arcosanti.org Blazin’ M Ranch Mabery Ranch Road, Cottonwood, 928.634.0334, 800.937.8643, blazinm.com Tickle your funny bone and satisfy your taste buds with an evening at the Blazin’ M Ranch Chuckwagon-style Dinner and Show. See ad on page 18-19. Gingerbread House 115 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.1670 Visit us and get a free sample of homemade fudge. Gifts, crafts, fudge, home-made gelato and ice-ream parlor, children’s clothing, and Yankee Candles. Z-Coil Pain Relief footwear available in all sizes. See ad on page 1. Gold King Mine & Ghost Town Jerome, 928.634.0053, goldkingmineghosttown.net This 100-year-old gold mining town offers: demonstrations, gift shop, petting farm, walk-in mine, blacksmith shop, working sawmill. Open 9am-5pm daily. Admission charged. See ad on page 11.
Out of Africa Wildlife Park 4020 N. Cherry Road, Camp Verde, 928.567.2840, outofafricapark.com Open year-round; located 90 minutes north of Phoenix and 30 minutes south of Sedona. Admission covers all shows and tours. See ad on page 3. Pink Jeep Tours Sedona, 928.282.5000, 800.8.SEDONA, pinkjeep.com Since 1958, Pink Jeep Tours has been providing the most talked about off-road adventures in the Southwest. Our award-winning excursions are known as the premier ‘must-do’ tours in Sedona. You Gotta Do It! See ad on page 4. Red Rock Western Jeep Tours Sedona, 928.282.6826, 800.848.7728, redrockjeep.com Verde Canyon Railroad 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale, 928.639.0010, 800.293.7245, verdecanyonrr.com Beauty, history, wildlife, and geology are all an integral part of the Verde Canyon and the Railroad that travels within. See ad on page 16-17. Verde Santa Fe Golf Club 645 S. Verde Santa Fe Pkwy., Cornville, 928.634.5454, verdesantafe.com Verde Santa Fe Golf Club is open to the public 365 days a year and is a par 71 layout at just over 3,300’ elevation. See ad on page 9.
Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
25
Restaurants Blazin’ M Ranch Chuckwagon Supper & Western Stage Show Mabery Ranch Road, Cottonwood, 928.634.0334, 800.937.8643, blazinm.com Chuckwagon supper & live Western stage show. Old West courtyard features shopping, Old-Tyme photos and Western activities. Open Wednesday-Sunday. Reservations recommended. See ad on page 18-19.
Crema Coffee and Cream 917 N. Main St., Cottonwood Featuring coffee and small batch artisanal ice cream, gelato and desserts. Open 12-8, Wednesday-Monday. Closed Nov. 27th-Dec. 25th. Domino’s Pizza 415 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.607.2660 Evelyn’s Kitchen 202 N. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.1277 Gallery Restaurant 555 Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, 928.567.7903
Blimpie Subs & Salads 695 E. Cottonwood St., Cottonwood, 928.639.8888
Gathering Restaurant & Bar 333 Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, 928.567.7914
Brandi’s Kitchen 1695 E. Cottonwood St., Cottonwood, 928.634.4121
Golden Dragon 1675 E. Cottonwood St., Cottonwood, 928.634.0588
Casa Bonita 991 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.7018
Grapes 111 Main St., Jerome, 928.639.8477
26
•
vi si t cottonwooda z . org
TOP: Willy’s Burger & Shakes
Acme Pizzaria 260 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.2263, acmepizzaria.com
Green Carrot Café 735 N. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.639.3636 Hacienda 1330 E. Hwy. 89A, Cottonwood, 928.634.9947 The Haunted Hamburger Jerome Palace, 410 N. Clark St., Jerome, 928.649.6782 Hobo Joe’s Coffee Shop 660 E. Mingus Ave., Cottonwood, 928.634.2651 Jerona Java Café & Gifts 677 E. Mingus Ave., Cottonwood, 928.639.1234
Nic’s Italian Steak & Crab House 925 N. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.9626 On the Rocks Bar & Grill 160 Portal Lane, Sedona, 928.282.1777 Pizza Hut 472 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.8212 Randall’s Restaurant 891 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.0043
Jump Start Espresso & Smoothies 1395 E. Hwy. 89A, Cottonwood, 928.451.1376
Red Rooster Café of Jerome 363 S. Main St., Jerome, 928.634.7087 Worth a trip up the hill to Historic Jerome. Specializing in homemade Southwest and Southern fare. Open daily. Breakfast, 8-11am; lunch, 11am-3pm, weekdays, 11am-4pm, weekends; High Soup, 3-6pm, everyday; dinner, Thursday-Saturday, 6:30-10pm. See ad on page 11.
Kactus Kate’s Saloon 929 N. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.7822
Sally’s Mesquite Grill & BBQ 609 E. Hwy. 89A, Cottonwood, 928.634.6310
La Carreta Restaurant 2181 E. Hwy. 89A, Cottonwood, 928.649.2845
Steaks ‘N’ Sticks 160 Portal Lane, Sedona, 928.282.1777
Mai Thai on Main 2181 E. Hwy. 89A, Cottonwood, 928.649.2845
Storytellers Steakhouse 555 Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, 928.567.7905
Manzanita Inn 11425 E. Cornville Road, Cornville, 928.634.8851, themanzanitarestaurant.com Renown for German food, the Manzanita Restaurant also offers superb seafood, steaks and other specialty dishes in a friendly old-world ambiance. See ad on page 9.
Tavern Grill 914 N. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.6669
Joey Bistro & Joey Pizza 160 Portal Lane, Sedona, 928.282.1777 Johnny Rockets 555 Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, 928.567.5158
Ming House 888 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.639.2885
Verde Valley Wine Co. & Recovery Room Restaurant 401 S. Calvary Way, Cottonwood 928.639.WINE, verdevalleywineco.com Willy’s Burgers & Shakes 794 N. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.6648
Murphy’s Grill 747 S. Main St., Cottonwood, 928.634.7272 Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
27
Wineries
Arizona and the Verde Valley are great places to grow wine grapes and make wine. Some people find this hard to believe, but the similarities to some of the great wine producing regions in the world; the Rhône, Spain, Portugal and Chile are remarkable. The Verde Valley has the sunshine and heat to develop great fruit. The valley also has the rocky, poor soils that help the vines produce fruit with great flavors and concentration. The poor soils and difficult growing conditions force the vines to struggle to survive. This struggle causes the vines to put their energy into developing less but higher quality, more intensely flavored fruit – just the characteristics the winemaker wants to help him craft great wine. The pioneering wineries in the Verde Valley are producing a wide variety of wines, in many different styles. They all have tasting rooms and welcome guests. Stop in and sample the wines, see the vineyards and maybe pick up a bottle or two to share with friends. See map on page 4. Alcantara Winery 7500 E. Alcantara Way, Verde Valley, 928.649.8463 (VINE), alcantaravineyard.com Tasting Room Hours: 11am-5pm Daily Nestled in the Verde Valley at the confluence of the Verde River and Oak Creek, 13 varietals with 14 acres under vine. Tours begin at 11:30am Fridays and Saturdays. Off Highway 260/Thousand Trails.
Jerome Winery 403 Clark St., Jerome, 928.639.9067, jeromewinery.com Tasting Room Hours: 12pm-5pm Sunday-Thursday; 11am-6pm FridaySaturday Built on the side of Cleopatra Hill between Prescott and Sedona in the historic town of Jerome, featuring over 30 uniquely handcrafted, individually distinct wines.
28
•
vi si t cottonwooda z . org
TOP: Page Springs Cellars
Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery 1565 Page Springs Road, Cornville, 928.649.2681, javelinaleapwinery.com Tasting Room Hours: 11am-5pm Daily Boutique Winery, with a limited 1,200-case annual production. Located ten minutes from Sedona, along Oak Creek Greenbelt and Audubon Bird Sanctuary.
Oak Creek Winery 1555 N. Page Springs Road, Cornville, 928.649.0290 Tasting Room Hours: 11am-5pm Wednesday-Sunday Page Springs Cellars 1500 N. Page Springs Road, Cornville, 928.639.3004, pagespringscellars.com Tasting Room Hours: 11am-6pm Monday-Sunday Enjoy fine Arizona wines at Page Springs Cellars. See ad on Inside Front Cover. Verde Valley Wine Co. 401 S. Calvary Way, Cottonwood, 928.639.WINE, 201.956.7933, verdevalleywineco.com Open Daily: 11am-9pm Contact for wine tasting information.
Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
29
Calendar of Events Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce 928.634.7593, visitcottonwoodaz.org Clarkdale Chamber of Commerce 928.634.9438, clarkdalechamber.com Jerome Chamber of Commerce 928.624.2900, azjerome.com Camp Verde Chamber of Commerce 928.567.9294, campverde.org, visitcampverde.org Sedona Chamber of Commerce 928.282.7722, 800.288.7336, visitsedona.com Sedona Verde Valley Tourism Council sedona-verdevalley.org
February • Pecan / Wine & Antique Festival – Camp Verde • Arts & Crafts Festival – Clemenceau Museum, Cottonwood • Antique Show – Camp Verde March • Arizona Old Time Fiddlers Camp-Out – Verde Valley Fairgrounds • Gem & Mineral Show – Mingus Union High School, Cottonwood
30
•
vi si t cottonwooda z . org
• Arizona Flywheelers Gasoline Engine Show – Verde Valley Fairgrounds, Cottonwood • International Film Festival – Sedona • Verde River Canoe Challenge – Camp Verde • St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Sedona April • Easter Egg Hunt – Riverfront Park, Cottonwood • Verde Valley Birding & Nature Festival – Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Cottonwood • Verde Valley Fair – Verde Valley Fairgrounds, Cottonwood • Annual Verde River Canoe Challenge – Camp Verde
TOP: Fort Verde Days
January • Eagle Watch – Verde Valley/Cottonwood • Red Rock Fantasy – Sedona • Heritage Big Band Dance – Clarkdale • Bachelor Auction – Camp Verde
May • Jerome Home Tours – Jerome • Garden Tour – Sedona • Art and Sculpture Walk – Sedona June • Gourd and Garlic Festival – Camp Verde • Arizona Crawdad Festival – Camp Verde • Astro Festival – Red Rock State Park, Sedona July • 4th of July Celebration – Verde Valley Fairgrounds, Cottonwood • 4th of July Parade – Clarkdale • Chamber Golf Tournament – Cottonwood • CornFest – Camp Verde • POW WOW – Yavapai/Apache Nation, Cliff Castle Casino August • Red Rocks Music Festival – Sedona • National Night Out (Block Party) – Clarkdale September • Fall Fine Art Gallery & Boutique – Clemenceau Heritage Museum, Cottonwood
• Verde River Days – Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Cottonwood • Verde River Show & Glow Car Show – Riverfront Park, Cottonwood • General Crooks Pioneer Days – Camp Verde • Jazz on the Rocks – Sedona • Rhythm and Ribs – Cottonwood • Home and Business Show – Cottonwood • Apple Fest – Slide Rock State Park October • Fall Colors – Verde Valley, Cottonwood • Sedona Arts Festival – Sedona • Fort Verde Days – Camp Verde • Miners’ Days – Jerome November • Zeke Taylor Barbeque – Clemenceau Heritage Museum, Cottonwood December • Christmas Parade – Cottonwood • Chocolate Lover’s Walk – Old Town Cottonwood • Made in Clarkdale Art Show – Clarkdale • Festival of Lights – Sedona Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
31
Scenic Beauty In the morning, take a leisurely drive on Historic Highway 89A to the top of Mingus Mountain and down to Prescott Valley traversing a road that is visually and physically enclosed by vegetation and canyon walls. There are spectacular views of the Mogollon Rim, San Francisco Peaks and the sandstone cliffs of the red rocks along the drive. Explore your way through Jerome and order breakfast at one of the many restaurants overlooking the Verde Valley. Head back through Clarkdale, Cottonwood and Sedona all the way to Oak Creek Canyon along this scenic byway. In the afternoon stop off at Slide Rock State Park, Red Rock State Park, and capture the sunset at Crescent Moon Recreation Area before heading back. Native American In the morning plan to explore the ancient Indian dwellings at the Palatki and Honanki Ruins outside of Sedona. Be sure to make reservations in advance. Continue on to Camp Verde where you can try your luck at Cliff Castle Casino on the Yavapai-Apache Nation. Enjoy lunch at one of their popular restaurants before heading over to Montezuma Castle National Monument. View this five-story, 20-room “castle,” which stands in a cliff recess 100 feet above the valley floor.
32
•
vi si t cottonw ooda z . org
TOP: Montezuma’s Castle National Monument RIGHT: Blue Herons mating
Itineraries
Nearby is Montezuma Well where you can climb down the sinkhole which has a year-round water source and see the caves once occupied by Native Americans. The outlet of the spring is seen as you continue along the trail. In Clarkdale visit Tuzigoot National Monument, an entire village centered on a pueblo two stories high and built on a hill 120 feet above the Verde River. History & Culture Start your morning by taking a stroll through the Cottonwood Commercial Historic “Old Town” District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Or, visit Jerome, where a stop at the Jerome State Historic Park brings to life the ghost of its mining past. In the afternoon take a ride aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad for a four-hour trip through the Verde Canyon. After the train ride, enjoy a true western experience with a chuckwagon supper and western stage show at the Blazin’ M Ranch. Recreation Set an early tee time for a challenging round of golf at Verde Santa Fe or Pine Shadows Golf Course. Fishing, hiking, horseback riding and bird watching provide an excellent afternoon of relaxation at Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Enjoy a Jeep tour in Sedona and finish the day shopping in any one of the many Verde Valley communities that offer a vast array of opportunities including antique stores, outlet malls and fine art galleries. Spend a day on an African Safari in the heart of Arizona at Out of Africa Wildlife Park. Ride or walk through a preserve viewing a diverse variety of animals including giraffe, wildebeest, lions and tigers. Wildlife & Birding The Verde Valley is known for its access to the natural resources that attract wildlife. Visit Dead Horse Ranch State Park and take a trail to Tavasci Marsh with its own observation deck. The marsh and the Verde River Greenway have been designated as important bird areas. From there, travel to Page Spring’s Bubbling Ponds, then on to Red Rock State Park for a guided walk (offered on Wednesdays and Saturdays only). Co t t o nwo o d & Ve rd e Val l e y
•
33