An awe-inspiring view near...
An awe-inspiring view near Flagstaff in contrast to what a desert typically looks like.Photography: Todd Brenneman
Besides Grand Canyon Lodge, there are also a couple of great campgrounds on the North Rim, and lodging is also available a bit north of the Lodge and at the nearby towns of Jacob Lake and Fredonia.
On our trip back to Prescott, we took some time out to visit Harper's Ferry, a historic spot on the Colorado River where one of the only ferry crossings was located. We drove across the bridge over Marble Canyon for a superb view of the Colorado River as it cuts its way through a mighty canyon. We also took in the Vermillion Cliffs, towering red rock that rises from the desert floor.
Naturally, there's much more to see in this area of central Arizona, which we missed but are sure to see at a later date. These include the Fort Verde State Historic Park, the picturesque town of Payson, the Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, the high mountain towns of Flagstaff and Williams, and more.
Any trip to central Arizona is, indeed, a trip to the core of Arizona. Arizona is more than desert sand and towering cactus. Central Arizona is alive with healthy forests, teeming wildlife, and Indian and American culture. Definitely a trip not to be missed.
Room With a View
Because central Arizona is blessed with a wealth of tourist sights, the accommodations are numerous. Ranging from no-hookup rustic sights in national forest areas to lush hotel rooms, there is always something for everyone. For RV travelers, there are many fine campgrounds to choose from, too.
The Grand Canyon has a couple of campgrounds with full hookups, including the Trailer Village next to Mather Campground on the South Rim and the Grand Canyon Camper Village in Tusayan, near the South Rim. On the North Rim, there is a campground with no hookups. Forty miles north you'll find full-hookup sites at Jacob Lake.
In Flagstaff, there are numerous full-hookup parks in the area, and farther south in Prescott there is an abundance of full-hookup sites, including the Willow Lake RV Park. Keep in mind that in Prescott, a few of the campgrounds have many extended-stay sites, where many RVers reside throughout the year, especially in the summer months. Camp Verde has a number of full hookup sights, and in nearby Cottonwood you'll also find a few RV parks with full hookups, but again, many are extended-stay sites.
Popular Sedona has a few RV parks with full hookups, but plan your stay well ahead of time, as this area often fills up quickly, especially in spring and summer. Naturally, consulting an RV park guide, like Woodall's, is a smart choice before you travel.
A hike along Granite Basin...
A hike along Granite Basin Lake. Photography: Prescott Area Coalition for Tourism
Weather in central Arizona can be diverse and challenging. For instance, in spring and summer the temperature can push into the 100s in the Verde Valley, but at the same time of year can be in the 60s and 70s on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Perhaps the best time to travel is in the spring and fall, when most areas in Central Arizona are enjoying pleasant temperatures and moderate weather conditions.
Because elevations in central Arizona range from about 1,000 feet in the Verde Valley to above 8,000 feet at the North Rim, temperatures and conditions can vary widely. Areas such as Prescott, Sedona, and Jerome get warm in the summer, but temperatures over 90 degrees are usually not seen outside of July and August. The North Rim, on the other hand, is actually closed during the winter due to numerous snowfalls and freezing temperatures. The South Rim, while not actually closed in wintertime, does have its chilly weather and occasional snow.
Again, much of Central Arizona is warm to hot in the summer months and freezing to cool in winter. As for spring and fall, you'll find comfortable temps and pleasant weather just about everywhere.