advertisement
5 February 2024
While the bustling heart of Arizona beats in Phoenix, the state’s charm lies in its small towns that often remain hidden from the metropolitan spotlight. These cozy pockets of culture and nature offer unique getaways for those seeking serenity amid Arizona’s diverse landscapes. Here are five small towns that provide a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of Phoenix.
Founded in 1912 and nestled on the banks of the Verde River, Clarkdale is a testament to meticulous town planning. A visit to the Arizona Copper Art Museum allows tourists to explore the state’s copper-rich heritage through an impressive collection of artifacts.
Clarkdale also offers a scenic ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad, a four-hour round trip that exposes passengers to the protected ecosystem of the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Area. The town’s Historic District further reveals its rich history, featuring charming restaurants and shops where you can find unique souvenirs.
Not to be confused with its Floridian counterpart, Miami, Arizona, is a stark contrast to the glitz and glamour of the coastal city. With approximately 1,500 residents, this small southwestern desert town exudes a unique charm that feels worlds away from larger cities like Phoenix.
Visitors can start their exploration in the quaint downtown area, sampling local eateries and supporting small businesses. Don’t miss the Bullion Plaza Cultural Center and Museum, which houses exhibits on the region’s first inhabitants, veterans, and prominent local figures.
Quartzsite may seem like a pit stop for travelers, but it hides quirky attractions worth exploring. The Tomb of Hi Jolly, a gravesite honoring a camel driver who explored the potential use of camels in the American Southwest, is a testament to the town’s unique history.
Quartzsite hosts its Annual Mineral Show and Swap Meet every January and February, attracting thousands of rock enthusiasts and gemologists. The mild winter weather during these months makes it the perfect time to admire a wide array of gems, minerals, and rocks.
Located in the White Mountain region, Springerville offers a secluded mountain-town experience. At the Casa Malpais Archaeological Park & Museum, visitors can delve into the area’s cultural heritage, dating back to the 1260s. The park features ancient staircases, stone weapons, jewelry, a solar calendar, and rock art showcasing the survival strategies of Native Americans.
For thrill-seekers, Springerville is a short drive from Sunrise Park Resort, home to Arizona’s fastest and longest zip line, the Apache High Flyer, which reaches speeds of up to 57 mph.
Yarnell’s history dates back to 1865 when Charles Genung, a miner and rancher, discovered gold in the area. Despite the tragic Yarnell Hill Fire in 2013 that claimed the lives of 19 firefighters, the town remains an inviting destination for adventurers.
A visit to the Shrine of St. Joseph is a must, where life-sized depictions of key moments in Christian theology are intertwined between boulders and oak trees, creating a visually stunning experience. Yarnell’s resilience and rich history make it a town worth exploring.
These small towns, though tucked away from Phoenix’s vibrant urban scene, each offer a unique and memorable experience. Whether you’re interested in history, natural beauty, or simply escaping the hustle and bustle, these hidden gems in Arizona have something special to offer.
advertisement
The Bobcats in Tucson Project (BIT), was launched by a group of Arizona Game and Fish retirees. They have provided insights into the lives of bobcats as they thrive in Tucson’s urban environments. The study, which ran from 2019 to 2024, highlighted the challenges and successes of bobcats coexisting with the human population in a sprawling city. advertisement The Bobcats in Tucson Project The BIT was driven by a team of wildlife experts, including Cheryl Mollohan, Kerry Baldwin, Al LeCount, Ron Day, and Dave Brown. They brought over 150 years of combined experience in wildlife research, management, and education. Their
As Arizona’s population continues to grow rapidly, the state faces the challenge of building a more efficient and sustainable transportation network to accommodate its residents. From urban sprawl in Phoenix to the quieter rural areas, Arizona’s transportation infrastructure is under increasing pressure. However, through a series of forward-thinking initiatives and innovative projects, Arizona is working to address these growing demands. While enhancing safety, sustainability, and mobility for cars, cyclists, pedestrians, and public transit users alike. advertisement Past Improvements and the Challenges Ahead Over the past few decades, Arizona has made great strides in expanding and upgrading its road infrastructure. Major
As the southwestern U.S. continues to face heightened drought conditions and escalating temperatures due to climate change, a new study shows that the increase of dust storms and wind erosion in Arizona is becoming increasingly impactful and concerning. advertisement Health and Safety Wind erosion in Arizona directly impacts public health, primarily by contributing to airborne dust storms that degrade air quality. These dust storms, filled with fine particles, can worsen respiratory issues like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). For residents already suffering from lung conditions, these storms exacerbate their health problems and increase hospital visits. One of the
Fun fact: Arizona is home to over 800 native fish and wildlife species, the highest biodiversity of any inland state. If you love spotting the diverse creatures of Arizona, you’re lucky you found this article. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of must-visit locations statewide for wildlife viewing. advertisement Northern Arizona Chevelon Canyon Wildlife Area Activity: Wildlife Viewing Description: Situated in the Ponderosa Pine ecosystem of the Mogollon Rim, this area is home to a variety of species that thrive in both meadow and riparian habitats. Lamar Haines Memorial Wildlife Area Activity: Wildlife Viewing Description: This 160-acre wildlife area consists of
