Arizona Hiking

I went on a really beautiful hike this weekend to the summit of the 14th highest peak of Arizona, (it doesn't seem that impressive I know) Mount Elden.  I went on a whim because as I was literally on my way to the gym I couldn't imagine spending the first truly good spring day (Flagstaff has really not been into this whole spring thing lately) running to nowhere while staring at a brick wall. 

While looking up trail information I came across a webpage for the Arizona 20 20 Challenge.  Lots of states have challenges (I think California has a challenge to climb its 12 highest peaks and Idaho has one too) and Arizona's is to hike the 20 highest peaks and the lowest 20 canyons in the state - how cool is that??  So far I have the 2 down (the Grand Canyon and Mt Elden), 38 to go!  Here's a little map showing the list:

And here are a few pictures from my beautiful hike..

Okay 80's babies, does this tree remind you of Hexas from Fern Gully or what?

Triumph at the top!

Travel Thursday!

Travel Thursday is making a triumphant return today to bring you.... Northern Arizona!  I know, I know- you must be thinking 'isn't this girl from Northern Arizona?'.  Yes, I am.  But that doesn't detract from the fact that Northern Arizona is a place that is simply brimming with beauty and some good old fashioned Wild West adventure.

I currently live in Flagstaff, Arizona.  Flagstaff is not what most people expect when they think of Arizona- with tall pines, lots of snow during our 6 month long winters and perfect 75 degree summer nights.  Historic Route 66 runs right through town and gives the whole place a cool retro feel.  We're also just a stones throw away from some truly amazing sights.

Northern Arizona is also home to the unmatched beauty of the Grand Canyon...

And to a lesser known but (in my opinion) equally beautiful and unique National Park, the Petrified Forest/Painted Desert.

I know I've already mentioned in another travel post how much I love roadside attractions and, thanks to Route 66, Northern Arizona has great ones.  My absolute favorite is the Grand Canyon Caverns.  It's in Seligman, Arizona- which in itself is a paradise for lovers of all things retro and funky.

Last but not least, Grand Falls.  This is an enormous waterfall (it's claim to fame is that it's actually higher than Niagra Falls) that is dry 10 months of the year and relatively unknown.  It's located on the Navajo Indian Reservation and in the middle of a very desolate landscape, which makes it all the more surprising and awesome.



Apart from all attractions or natural wonders, Northern Arizona is just plain beautiful, with a rich history stretching from the Wild West to Route 66.  I know so many of us take for granted the beauty and fun to be found in our own backyards but, being the travel dork that I am, I make it my business to visit the 'tourist' attractions in my own corner of the world and I encourage all of you to do the same - you just might be amazed by what you find!

Happy Trails