Red mountains break up the blue skies in Arizona. This makes it the perfect place for outdoor activities such as camping and hiking. Some things you have to remember because the environment is going to be different from your normal every day environment.
If you are hiking, you want to make sure you start on the trails and stay on the trails, and carry light gear. Some people even bring walking sticks to help lighten the load a bit. You should also make sure that you stay hydrated and bring plenty of food with you.
For camping in Arizona there are also some tips that you’ll want to consider. Make sure you know what the weather is going to be like and even if they say sun, stock up on supplies for poor weather just in case.
Also make sure that you get to the site with enough light so that you can be prepared and set up. Know your first aide (and this is also something you should insure for hiking) but just be prepared in case of an emergency. And just be aware of the wildlife and insects and protect yourself from them. Don’t feed the animals. But other than that and protecting your skin you are good to go.
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Hiking-Browns Peak
If you are looking for a challenge, this is it. Even experienced hikers can find this a little difficult. One you get to the Lone Pine Trailhead you’ll reach the start of an amazing trip. You will start with a cool breeze surrounded by pine trees.
The start is gentle until you reach Lone Pine Saddle and then you go between the peaks and climb. You will encounter loose rocks and may need to use your hands to get through some parts but you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Flagstaff’s snowy peaks.
Best time to go is spring and fall where you will find the best temperatures. The winter will greet you with snow and the summer provides hot terrain so stick to the nicer times of the year. If you decide to go in the winter which is also the rainy season, be sure to dress appropriately with a rain coat and pants.
Hiking And Camping-Havasu Falls
This place will amaze your senses with turquoise waterfalls, part of the Grand Canyon. They are part of the Huvasupai Indian Reservation. Keep in mind that you can’t just go there and start hiking or camping. You will need a permit for both.
The trailhead starts an 8 mile trek to Supai and then two more miles will land you at the campground. It’s all downhill from the trailhead, but you have to go back at some point. The fee for hiking is $40 and the campground is another $17 per night. After you rest you can walk the additional 4 miles down to Beaver Falls which will take you about half a day for the trip. So if you are looking for both camping and hiking, having a nice weekend, this might be a great place to start.
Camping-Patagonia Lake State Park
Imagine 250 acres of outdoor activities. For $15 per day you can get into the park and for camp is an additional $25-$28 per night. You can do bird watching, water skiing, and you can walk on the shore. There are places on the lake you can also rent paddle boats, pontoon boats, and kayaks to go out onto the lake. There are over 100 campsites for RVs and tents so you get to love the area, and have peace and quiet that you will never get at home (unless you live in a beach house of course).
Arizona is the perfect place for those outdoorsy types. So take advantage of the space and the environment and get outside.
