10 Worthwhile Northern Arizona Attractions & 10 to Skip!
3. Snowbowl/Nordic Center
Being one of only 3 downhill skiing areas in the state, and easily accessible via Phoenix, it comes at no surprise that Snowbowl is completely packed the entire winter season. Backed up traffic can be expected nearly every weekend. A several hour traffic jam is not an unusual event. Because it is the only ski resort in the region, rates are inflated.
A wiser alternative is to rent a cheap pair of snowshoes or skis and explore the wilderness at your own leisure. A quieter experience, no time limit, and saving money are a few of the perk you will experience by taking this route as opposed to Snowbowl. Sounds like a great trade off to me!
While the Nordic Center is pretty nice, offering 25+ miles of groomed trails through the beautiful ponderosa pine forest, it can get pricey. Trails vary in intensity from super easy to advanced, making it an exciting experience both for new skiers and regulars. However, a day out for 2 can cost as much as $80.
As the Nordic Center is overpriced, I recommend renting equipment and taking advantage of the beautiful nature surrounding the city. The Flagstaff Urban Trail System offers a number of flat trails which are great for winter recreation. Check out Buffalo Park or Fort Tuthill for the best conditions and views in town.
4. Pink Jeep Tours
Pink Jeep Tours, an immensely popular tour company seen all over Northern Arizona, offers visitors the chance to explore the diverse landscapes of this unique area of the country. On any given day in Sedona, you are bound to see at least a dozen of these out and about.
Although a nice relaxing tour ride is a tempting idea on vacation, I recommend getting out there and exploring a trail for yourself. Really, why pass up a great workout and rejuvenating experience in nature? Hiking to a summit yourself, instead of a jeep doing all the work, is much more exhilarating!
Many of the Jeep tours follow the same route as you would on a hiking trail. In fact, when you do a hike, you will probably see a Jeep as many of the tours run parallel to the trails. It’s a much more rewarding experience to reach the summit of a hike with your own 2 feet! This way you can take your time exploring the beautiful plant life, take as many beautiful red rock photos as you want, and look out for wildlife, all while being in total control and not having anyone rush the experience. Simply being out in nature for an extended period of time in such a gorgeous, unique area of the country is perhaps the biggest benefit of all.
I remember reaching the summit of Little Horse and looking over to my right and seeing the Pink Jeep! Not sure why anyone would pay for a tour when the hike did not cost a dime! I got in an amazing workout, took fantastic pictures, and was able to relax and recharge in the beautiful natural surroundings of Sedona’s red rocks without spending anything! Plus, I felt more accomplished as I had to do all the work by myself (in the hot sun too!).
In short, skip the tours and experience the rustic adventure of exploring red rock country. After all, the hike itself, rather than the ending view, is the real reward!
