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Get Up and Go–Arizona Road Trips REFINED Extravagant Relaxation RUGGED Exciting Adventures RIGHT DOWN THE ROAD Small Towns With Big Adventures
THE VIEW FROM THE ROAD. Small towns. Big adventures. Arizona’s less traveled destinations are the ideal retreat. In just a few hours, you can be anywhere in the state— enjoying getaways that are fun, fabulous and not-toofar-away. From fascinating history to jaw-dropping scenery to heart-pounding excitement, Arizona’s vibrant towns offer excitement around every turn. And best of all, they’re just a short drive away. Hit the open road. Discover the Arizona less traveled.
Southern Arizona
To experience the season at its most exhilarating, visitors should head to trails in the Coconino National Forest where large, shimmering stands of aspen trees steal the show.
ENJOY FALL COLOR AND MILE-HIGH FUN IN FLAGSTAFF.
Often hailed as Arizona’s capital of autumn, Flagstaff is the leaf peeper’s ideal location for a fall getaway.
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In late September, colors begin to change high on the San Francisco Peaks around the 8,000- to 9,000-foot elevation mark before autumn hues make their way to downtown Flagstaff, and eventually, send color cascading south to Oak Creek Canyon. While no one knows exactly when the change of color will reach its peak this year, the Flagstaff Leafometer is a resource to help you keep tabs on where the leaves are in their pigment transition. In its second year of use, the Flagstaff Leafometer is an online tool depicting when certain areas are at peak color. Monitor this gauge closely for an indication of what to expect on your autumn trip to the high country. To find the Leafometer, visit www.flagstaffarizona.org. Exploring the forest on foot is the most stunning way to experience the season. For a fall hike that
won’t disappoint, try one of the areas’ popular trails including: Veit Springs, Bismark Lake, Kachina Trail or Inner Basin. Get a bird’s-eye view of the foliage with a ride above the trees to 11,500 feet on the Arizona Snowbowl Scenic Chairlift Ride, operating Friday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through mid-October. From this vantage point, the forest below becomes a patchwork of green pine and golden aspen. For those who like to enjoy locally owned shops, art galleries, bars and restaurants, the town’s historic heart is the place to be on a crisp fall evening. After a day on the trail soaking in vibrant fall colors, head to charming downtown Flagstaff for a taste of local cuisine and craft brews. Flagstaff offers an eclectic mix of ethnic eateries, fast casual fare, brewpubs and fine dining to suit all palates, and beverage options abound with the perfect pint right around each corner. Don’t miss your chance to sample seasonal ales brewed with the flavors of fall in mind. | CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
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ARIZONA’S REFINED SIDE. LUXURY AND LEISURE. Arizona’s less-traveled destinations offer some of the most luxurious leisure activities in the Southwest. Southern Arizona’s resorts and spas are worldclass, and there’s nothing quite as indulgent as an outdoor massage with the scent of mesquite wafting on a gentle breeze. For urban sophistication, Central Arizona is a versatile destination offering unique museums, theater and nightlife. Head up the road and discover stunning views, cowboy and Indian art galleries and palate-pleasing wineries—just a few of the highlights in North Central Arizona. Craft breweries, rustically elegant lodges and luxury houseboating make Northern Arizona a truly relaxing getaway amid four-season splendor. Western Arizona’s manicured golf courses, glittering casinos and state-of-the-art pleasure boats draw those seeking refreshment from the ordinary. And nowhere is tribal culture more resplendent than in Arizona’s Indian Country, featuring handcrafted works of art and hotels and casinos that are also masterpieces of hospitality.
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Central Arizona
RUGGED ADVENTURE AWAITS. Arizona’s less traveled destinations offer the perfect excuse to go outside and play. Surrounded by spectacular Sonoran Desert scenery, Southern Arizona is a great place to cowboy up and horseback ride or shoot down trails on a mountain bike. Or head to Central Arizona, and spend a day tubing the Salt River, soaring in a hot-air balloon or hiking mountains affording panoramic views. North Central Arizona’s majestic red rocks, winding mountain roads and Ponderosa Pine forest beckon to be explored by foot or off-road jeep. Mountains of fun can be had in Northern Arizona, thanks to soaring peaks, wildflower-filled prairies and sapphire lakes that welcome hikers, fishers, campers and boating enthusiasts. For those looking to get wet and wild, Western Arizona is a cool spot boasting miles of lakes and rivers and watersports galore, plus wildlife preserves and fascinating historical landmarks. Last, but not least, Arizona’s Indian Country showcases some of the most stunning landscapes—and adventures—in the state, including whitewater rafting, tours of ancient ruins and canyon exploration.
Southern Arizona
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“WET” YOUR APPETITE FOR FUN IN LAKE HAVASU.
. T I N A E M U PLAY LIKE YO
SM
avasu.com www.GoLakeH
Lucas Oil Drag Boat Races October 11–13, 2013
36th Annual Relics & Rods Run to the Sun October 17–20, 2013
Everywhere you look, folks are hiking, biking, boating, off-roading, laughing, shopping, golfing, dining, and relaxing. Discover Lake Havasu City in Arizona and play like you mean it. SM Call (800) 242-8278 to request your free Visitors Guide. Play Like You Mean ItSM and the Lake Havasu City logo are service marks of Lake Havasu Tourism Bureau Inc dba Lake Havasu City Convention & Visitors Bureau.
DISCOVER WILLIAMS.
Cast off for adventure in Lake Havasu, located along the Colorado River’s beautiful shoreline and boasting 60 continuous miles of lake and river waterways. Dubbed the “Personal Watercraft Capital of the World,” Lake Havasu’s crystal blue waters makes water play easy with options including houseboating, fishing, Jet Skiing, parasailing, kayaking and paddleboarding. For a change of scenery, pick up an ATV and explore the surrounding desert. Go bird watching in the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge. Or take a trip back in time and visit the London Bridge—a landmark imported from halfway around the world. It’s Arizona’s second largest attraction after the Grand Canyon, and it’s a great place to take a 45-minute walking tour to hear about its colorful history. Lodging choices are as numerous as Lake Havasu’s star-filled skies. Set up camp at one of the many amenity-filled RV resorts that dot the coastline. If tent camping is your preference, Cattail Cove is a popular destination, boasting 61 campsites, an easy-access boat ramp and plenty of beachfront activities just steps away. Looking for something a little bit more luxurious? Resorts near the marina offer an array of conveniences. When the sun goes down, the tempo picks up—you can get your fill of fun at local microbreweries and charming lakeside cafés, or ferry across the river to try your luck at the Havasu Landing Resort and Casino. To plan your trip, visit www.golakehavasu.com.
Get your kicks on Route 66 with a visit to Williams,
a historic and charming Western town located in the cool pines of Northern Arizona. Historic Route 66, also known as “The Mother Road,” was one of the U.S.’s original highways running from Chicago to Santa Monica. In Williams, Route 66 runs right through downtown and offers a hearty dose of Americana with vintage car shows and shops filled with nostalgia. Williams is also the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” and sits at the end of the centuryold Grand Canyon Railway line, which makes daily two-hour trips to the park’s South Rim. Take an unforgettable ride on one of its lovingly restored cars and be entertained by authentic characters and musicians who bring the Old West to life. Passengers can even spend a night or two at the inviting Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, just a short walk to the train depot. Of course, no trip to Williams is complete without a visit to Bearizona. This drive-through wildlife park lets you get up close to animals in their natural environment (windows up, please!). You’ll see Bighorn Sheep, wolves, burros and bison, and of course, plenty of black bears. After the drive-through adventure, stroll through Fort Bearizona to view baby and smaller animals, as well as high country raptors. With plenty of outdoor activities, dining and lodging options, getaways don’t get any grander than Williams. To plan your trip, visit www.experiencewilliams.com.
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ENJOY FALL COLOR AND MILE-HIGH FUN IN FLAGSTAFF. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Beer lovers should be in Flagstaff on October 5, for the annual Flagstaff Oktoberfest. If you think this festive season isn’t complete without being spooked, add a walking tour of Flagstaff’s haunted places to your fall itinerary. Experience the sights of the city’s paranormal past and chance an encounter with local specters. Seasonal guided tours of haunted buildings depart from the Flagstaff Visitor Center throughout the month of October. Call 800-842-7293 for tour times and reservations.
For a family-friendly autumn experience where pumpkins take center stage, visit The Arboretum at Flagstaff and enjoy the Pumpkin Walk, October 26, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event includes a pumpkincarving session and an after-dark walk lit only by the light of glowing jack-o’-lanterns. For more fall events and tips for your autumn getaway, visit www.flagstaffarizona.org.
FOUR SEASONS OF FUN! ARIZONA’S RECREATION DESTINATION STA Y& SHO PLAY PIN ETO W LOW IN P SNO -LAKE SI WFL AKE DE TAY LOR
ING N E TUN DRIV S A UR NIX E O O 3H PH N! M O S O FR TUC R O
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