Every year people from all over the world visit Arizona. From the abstract metaphysical community of Sedona to the swanky shopping in Scottsdale- Arizona is a state that genuinely has something for everyone. Those of us lucky enough to live in Arizona year round should be able to experience a little bit of everything, but as with anything that you see every day, we can get in a rut of sorts. If world class golf is your thing, Scottsdale is the place, but let’s not forget that the state’s Western, outdoorsy roots are also still alive and kicking.
Camelot Homes has compiled a list of adventures and attractions which are off the beaten path, for your out-of-town guests this holiday season. Reminiscent of a Louis L’Amour novel and true to Arizona’s Southwestern spirit, here are some day trips that celebrate our great desert state.
Take a hike! Hike into the desert: McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale’s 16,000-acre backyard. You can access this wide-open desert park and its 60 miles of looping multi-use trails from a number of trailheads—we like the 4-mile loop trail from the Gateway Trailhead.
Saddle up for a ride: On a Fort McDowell Adventures trail ride in the Fountain Hills, just east of town, you’ll splash through the Verde River and take in the views of craggy mountains, plus glimpses of herons, jackrabbits, and coyotes.
Visit Sedona. As well as having a solid reputation as an artists’ enclave, Sedona offers visitors a wealth of trails ranging from leisurely jaunts to long, challenging backpacking treks. New Age spiritualists come to the area for its celebrated vortices and mystical sources of energy.
Get pampered- at L’Auberge de Sedona. Named one of the top Hotel Spas in the U.S., this boutique resort spa known for its rustic yet elegant setting, is second to none when it comes to the training and skills of their staff. They bring a highly personalized approach to each guest and focus on healing, utilizing classic techniques that are at once luxurious and completely in harmony with Sedona’s natural setting.
Julie Hancock listening to the soothing sounds of Oak Creek flowing by.
Explore the caves of Antelope Canyon. For all intents and purposes, entering a place like Antelope Canyon is a bit like entering a cathedral; a place to be revered. To this day, the Navajo elders, will pause before going in, to be in the right frame of mind and prepare for protection and respect. This allows them to leave with an uplifted feeling of what Mother Nature has to offer, and to be in harmony with something greater than themselves. It was, and is, a spiritual experience for all who enter.
Julie Hancock and friends, “Spiritual Road Trip” Antelope Canyon 2009
And last, but not least, have fun with your fellow road-trippers. Get out of the car, take pictures and be grateful for the beauty that is, Arizona.
Somewhere outside of Flagstaff
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