If you love clear skies and bright sunshine, then you owe it to yourself to spend some time in Arizona. Almost every day starts with the sun shining brightly, the birds singing loudly and the outdoors calling you. So, you can’t help but get those hiking boots tied up, the mountain bike serviced or the fishing boat hooked up and ready to go.
With over 300 sunny days per year, Arizona is the natural place to spend time in the outdoors. Events can be planned with no consideration needed for a rainy day alternative site or date. Everyone knows that the summers are “smokin’ hot” but even on the hottest days, the early morning is perfect for outdoor activities. If you want to escape the heat of Southern Arizona, then head for the higher elevations across the northern part of the state. In places like Flagstaff or Payson, summer weather is similar to Edmonton or Calgary, Alberta because of the elevation.
The state is home to the Grand Canyon which draws over 5 million visitors per year for good reason. When you go, be sure to plan to hike at least a couple of miles into the canyon. Once you have experienced the canyon, you will want to return as often as possible. It truly is one of the wonders of the world.
If you love spotting wildlife, you’ll be thrilled with the variety that you can see in Arizona. It is a destination for bird watchers from all over the world. The rugged McDowell mountains, part of the park system in Scottsdale form one of the largest urban parks in North America at over 30,000 acres. With a deer population that exceeds 250, it is natural to have mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, javelina (desert pig) all making the McDowell’s their home. Rattlesnakes are common in the summer time and actually do not want to bite you. If you come across one, chances are that it will give you a warning rattle and allow you to step slowly away to a short distance where you can get a picture of it.
Needless to say, this makes up only a small sampling of the activities and features of this incredible state. Come and spend some time and discover all the amazing things that Arizona has to offer.