With the heat of the Arizona summer rapidly climbing above 100º, people all over the metro Phoenix are itching for ways to escape the heat. Afterall, Phoenix isn’t called the “Valley of the Sun” for nothing. The summer months are the perfect time to retreat to higher elevations and enjoy cooler temperatures. Stay active and get outside this summer by traveling to these Arizona destinations for a quick and fun getaway.
Williams
Known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon”, Williams, Arizona is about a 2 hour and 40-minute drive from Phoenix. Situated right in the middle of the Kaibab National Forest with an elevation of 6,770 feet, Williams is a great day–trip to escape the valley summer heat. Whether you want to hit the hiking trails or see wildlife in its natural habitat, Williams has a little bit of everything.
- Sycamore Rim Trail
- About 30 minutes outside of Williams, the Sycamore Rim Trail features 5 trailheads for travelers to explore. Between hiking, mountain biking, or rock climbing, this 11.1 mile loop has you covered. Make sure to check out the Sycamore Falls Trailhead, which leads to a secluded and beautiful waterfall. Dogs are welcome, but make sure to keep them on a leash! Visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/kaibab/recarea/?recid=11674 for more information.
- Bearizona
- A drive through animal park with animals roaming free? The chance to see baby bears? It doesn’t get much better than that. Around 160 acres in the Ponderosa Pine Forest, experience all that the Bearizona Wildlife Park has to offer. Check out https://bearizona.com/ for more information.
- A drive through animal park with animals roaming free? The chance to see baby bears? It doesn’t get much better than that. Around 160 acres in the Ponderosa Pine Forest, experience all that the Bearizona Wildlife Park has to offer. Check out https://bearizona.com/ for more information.
- Route 66 Zipline
- 110 feet high and 700 feet long, the Route 66 Zipline allows you to experience Williams from a bird’s eye view. Soar above the famous route 66 at 30 miles per hour in the sky. A perfect activity for the whole family. Learn more at https://www.ziplineroute66.com/.
Bearizona
Payson
A 2 hour and 30-minute drive from Phoenix with average summer temperatures of high-80s to mid-90s, Payson is another great getaway in the heart of Arizona.
- Colonel Devin Trail Railroad Tunnel
- Experience a piece of Arizona history with the Colonel Devin Trail Railroad Tunnel. This trail was pioneered in the 1860s to serve as a supply route for Colonel Devin, an officer in the American Civil War. Now it serves as a perfect getaway from the summer heat! The 70-foot tunnel can be accessed through Washington Park Trailhead and is an ideal retreat from the summer sun. Hike through the cliffs of the Mogollon Rim on this 3-mile hike in the Tonto National Forest. Head to https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/null/recarea/?recid=35617&actid=50 to learn more.
- Mogollon Rim Trail
- The Mogollon Rim makes its mark by sprawling for 200 miles across central Arizona and standing tall at 2,000 feet. Take in the pine trees and hidden waterfalls from rim to horizon. Choose from countless hiking trails like Woods Canyon Lake or Rim Lakes Vista Hiking Trail. You really can’t go wrong with what path you choose. Learn more at https://www.visitarizona.com/uniquely-az/parks-and-monuments/mogollon-rim.
Payson
- The Mogollon Rim makes its mark by sprawling for 200 miles across central Arizona and standing tall at 2,000 feet. Take in the pine trees and hidden waterfalls from rim to horizon. Choose from countless hiking trails like Woods Canyon Lake or Rim Lakes Vista Hiking Trail. You really can’t go wrong with what path you choose. Learn more at https://www.visitarizona.com/uniquely-az/parks-and-monuments/mogollon-rim.
Prescott
Arrive in Prescott in less than two hours from Phoenix. Fun little fact – Prescott once was the capital of the Arizona territory back in the 1800’s. The surrounding Bradshaw Mountains provide cooler temperatures and refreshing retreats all summer long. Pro tip: Make sure to stop by Rock Spring Café on your way back to Phoenix to grab the best sweet treat. It is right off the I-17 before passing through Anthem.
- Lynx Lake Recreation Loop Trail
- Spend the day around Lynx Lake Recreation Loop Trail, a lovely 55-acre lake in Prescott. While swimming is not permitted in the lake, you can still retreat to the water by kayak, canoe, or boat. This is a great activity spot for the whole family, including dogs! Check out https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/prescott/recreation/recarea/?recid=75178 for more information.
- Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary
- Don’t miss out on visiting the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary. The sanctuary has over 30 years of wildlife preservation and conservation and is right across the street from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Experience the Tarantula Grotto, Rattlesnake Jake’s Jungle Splash, Wallaby Walk-About and more. Head over to downtown Prescott afterwards and walk down Whiskey Row, a street filled with historical bars and saloons where famous cowboys once roamed. Visit more at https://www.heritageparkzoo.org/.
Prescott
- Don’t miss out on visiting the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary. The sanctuary has over 30 years of wildlife preservation and conservation and is right across the street from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Experience the Tarantula Grotto, Rattlesnake Jake’s Jungle Splash, Wallaby Walk-About and more. Head over to downtown Prescott afterwards and walk down Whiskey Row, a street filled with historical bars and saloons where famous cowboys once roamed. Visit more at https://www.heritageparkzoo.org/.
Sedona
Known for its majestic red rocks and breathtaking views, Sedona is just a quick 2-hour drive from metro Phoenix. Some might even consider it desert paradise. With over 100 hiking trails to choose from, it is the perfect location for an outside and active summer getaway. Some of its most well-known trails include Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and Boynton Canyon. Wander through Uptown Sedona by foot and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village.
- Mooney Trail
- Skip the crowded trailheads and visit Mooney Trail. This 7-mile trail offers a secluded trail experience with beautiful views and quiet time in nature. With sights of only one ranch along the trail, there are little signs of civilization and provides an “off the beaten path” feel. The trail ultimately leads up to Spring Canyon while also passing Robber’s Roost, an old bandit cave, from a distance. Check out https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55358 for more information.
- Skip the crowded trailheads and visit Mooney Trail. This 7-mile trail offers a secluded trail experience with beautiful views and quiet time in nature. With sights of only one ranch along the trail, there are little signs of civilization and provides an “off the beaten path” feel. The trail ultimately leads up to Spring Canyon while also passing Robber’s Roost, an old bandit cave, from a distance. Check out https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55358 for more information.
- Chuckwagon Trail
- Chuckwagon Trail is another great option, especially for mountain biking. The trail is roughly 5.4 miles from point to point. Chuckwagon Trail also grants you access to the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead and connects with the Long Canyon Trail Head. Learn more at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55292.
Sedona
- Chuckwagon Trail is another great option, especially for mountain biking. The trail is roughly 5.4 miles from point to point. Chuckwagon Trail also grants you access to the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead and connects with the Long Canyon Trail Head. Learn more at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55292.
Greer
The heart of the White Mountains. Greer is one of the coolest places in Arizona, with an average high temperature for July of 76 degrees. With an elevation of 8,356 feet, it holds the spot as the highest town in Arizona. About a 4-hour drive east from Phoenix, it is a solid spot for an overnight or weekend getaway trip. Visit https://greerarizona.com/ to learn more about Greer.
- Pole Knoll Trails
- The Pole Knoll Trails offers 18 combined miles of loop trails. Whether you want to go hiking, biking, or horseback riding, there is bound to be a trail for you. Take in the beautiful White Mountain views and the ponderosa pines. Pole Knoll also leads to the Squirrel Springs Trail, another 14 combined miles of loop trails.
- Fishing
- Spend time out on the water in Greer! The Greer Lakes: the Bunch Reservoir, the Tunnel Reservoir, and the River Reservoir, all are great options for fishing in the beautiful White Mountains.
Insider tip: Make sure to check the trails are open before heading North. Several popular trail systems have been closed periodically over the past few months due to overcrowding.
Whether its hiking one of the many desert trails or experiencing the Arizona wildlife, these destinations all make for a fun and active getaway. We hope you enjoy getting out and exploring all that Arizona has to offer.