Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park Arizona [1], also known as the Grand Canyon State, is located in the American Southwest. Admitted as the 48th State of the Union in 1912, Arizona is home to the Grand Canyon as well as a variety of terrain, climates and cultures. To the west is California and Nevada, to the north is Utah, to the east is New Mexico, to the northeast is Colorado, and to the south is the Mexican state of Sonora. It is one of the Four Corners states. Regions Southeast Arizona's Sky Islands Greater Phoenix Northern Arizona including Grand Canyon and the "Arizona Strip" South Central Arizona Western Arizona Cities Chloride Flagstaff Jerome Mesa Meadview Page Payson Peach Springs Phoenix Prescott Sedona Scottsdale Tempe Tucson Williams Winslow Other destinations Arizona National Parks Glen Canyon Dam & Recreation Area Grand Canyon West Havasupai - Grand Canyon Lake Powell Meteor Crater Mogollon Rim Monument Valley Mount Humphries - San Francisco Peaks Mount Lemmon Mystery Castle Navajo Nation Painted Desert White Mountains National Parks Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Grand Canyon National Park Petrified Forest National Park Saguaro National Park National Monuments Canyon de Chelly National Monument Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Chiricahua National Monument Four Corners Monument Montezuma Castle National Monument Navajo National Monument Ravens, Petrified Forest National Park Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument Parashant National Monument Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument National Forests Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest Tonto National Forest Coronado National Forest State Parks Homolovi Ruins State Park [[2]] Kartchner Caverns State Park Lake Havasu State Park Lyman Lake State Park Picacho Peak State Park Roper Lake State Park Understand Landscape Monument Valley Arizona covers 113,909 square miles, with about 350 square miles of water surface including Lake Havasu, Lake Powell, Lake Mead and the Colorado River. The state consists of three primary topographical features: a high plateau in the northeast of the state, averaging between 5,000 and 7,000 feet in elevation; a mountainous region which runs from the southeast to the northwest with peak elevations between 9,000 and 12,000 feet; and low mountain ranges and desert valleys in the southwestern of the state. The state is defined by the Grand Canyon in the north, the Mogollon (pronounced MUG-ee-own) Rim in the central mountainous region and the Sonoran Desert to the south. Scattered among these regions, features such as the red rocks of Sedona, the tall, wind-swept towers of Monument Valley and the saguaro-filled desert valleys around Phoenix and Tucson add depth and character to the landscape of Arizona. Another prominent feature of the Arizona landscape, a Ponderosa Pine forest stretches across the state from the White Mountain region around Greer and Alpine across the Mogollon Rim to the San Francisco Peaks north of Flagstaff. This strip of pine also extends beyond the Grand Canyon onto the Kaibab Plateau and into Southern Utah. Humphreys Peak, part of the San Francisco Peaks, is the highest point in Arizona with an elevation of 12,611 feet. Baldy Peak, located in the White Mountains, is the second highest point with an elevation of 11,490 feet. In the southwest of the state, the Sonoran Desert stretches out of Mexico and into Arizona with elevations as low as about 100 feet above sea level in the Lower Colorado River Valley. The Grand Canyon One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon dominates the Northern Arizona landscape. Stretching 277 miles across the high plateaus and plunging up to 6,000 feet into the arid plateau, the canyon was shaped and carved by the constant motion of the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon features three or four eras of geological time as well several layers of fossil records, several variety rock types, numerous caves and several major ecosystems. Climate What To Wear When visiting Arizona pack accordingly depending on the time of year and where you are traveling. Throughout the state dress is usually casual and comfortable, especially during the summer months. Very few restaurants require jackets and ties, however if you are planning on attending a cultural event or dining at a finer restaurant, consider bringing business casual attire as well. During the summer, shorts and sandals are standard wear during the day, with a light sweater or jacket during the evenings at higher elevations. In the cooler months, temperatures can differ greatly from day to night, so consider bringing a sweater or jacket if traveling in the desert areas. At higher elevations in the north of the state, a winter jacket is recommended. Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen should be used year-round. A primary reason for travelers to visit to Arizona, specifically in the low desert regions around Phoenix and Tucson, is the state's mild climate during the fall, winter and spring. The warm weather and low precipitation provide travelers with an enjoyable climate for numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, golf and sightseeing. At higher elevations during the winter, snowfall allows visitors to enjoy winter sports such as cross-country skiing. During the summer months, temperatures in the low desert regions can reach well above 100 degrees F, however the climate at higher elevations, as in Flagstaff, stays mild and allows for enjoyable outdoor activities as well as a break from the summer heat. Temperatures High temperatures near or above 100-110 degrees F are common throughout the summer months at the lower elevations. During the winter, cold fronts can bring temperatures well below zero in the higher areas of central and northern Arizona, with lows averaging between 15 and 20 degrees F. During drier portions of the year (traditionally the winter months), temperatures can differ greatly from day to night, sometimes as much as 40 to 50 degrees F. In the low desert valleys during the winter, temperatures during the day could average 70 degrees F, with night temperatures dropping to around 40 degrees F. During the summer, the central portion of the state along with the lower elevations can can experience temperature changes up to 30-40 degrees F from day to night. Precipitation Rainfall in Arizona is primarily determined by season and elevation. In the mountainous region, that runs from the southeast to the northwest, rainfall amounts will average between 25 and 30 inches (including melted snow) annually, while the low-lying desert region averages only three or four inches annually. The high plateau region in the northeast of the state averages 10 inches of rainfall annually. During winter months, November through March, storms occur regularly at the higher elevations in central and northern Arizona and can produce heavy snowfall. Summer months, particularly early July through mid-September, bring the monsoon season to the desert region. Monsoons are strong thunderstorms, typically lasting a short time in certain area, that produce powerful winds and brief periods of blowing dust prior to the storm's arrival. The average number of days with measurable rainfall per year ranges from around 70 in the northern part of the state to 15 in the desert regions. The air is usually dry and clear, with low relative humidity and a high percentage of sunshine. April, May and June usually produce the most clear days, while July and August (in lower elevations), as well as December, January and February (in higher elevations) have the cloudiest weather due to thunderstorms. Humidity, is low in comparison to other states, however it is typically higher during the monsoon season. Average Temperature / Rainfall Desert (1200 ft) Mountain (7000 ft) Month Average Low Average High Average Rainfall Month Average Low Average High Average Rainfall January 41.2F/5.1C 65.9F/18.8C 0.6" January 16F/-8.8C 43F/6.1C 2.18" February 44.7F/7C 70.7F/21.5C 0.7" February 19F/-7.2C 46F/7.8C 2.56" March 48.8F/9.3C 75.5F/24.2C 0.9" March 23F/-5C 50F/10C 2.63" April 55.3F/12.9C 84.5F/29.2C 0.22" April 27F/-2.8C 58F/14.4C 1.29" May 63.9F/17.7C 93.6F/34.2C 0.1" May 34F/1.1C 68F/20C 0.8" June 72.9F/22.7C 103.5F/39.7C 0.1" June 41F/5C 79F/26.1C 0.43" July 81.0F/27.2C 105.9F/41.1C 0.9" July 50F/10C 82F/27.8C 2.4" August 79.2F/26.2C 103.7F/39.8C 1.0" August 49F/9.4C 80F/26.7C 2.89" September 72.8F/22.6C 98.3F/36.8C 0.86" September 42F/9.4C 74F/23.3C 2.12" October 60.8F/16C 88.1F/31.2C 0.7" October 31F/-0.5C 63F/17.2C 1.93" November 48.9F/9.4C 74.9F/23.8C 0.7" November 22F/-5.5C 51F/10.6C 1.86" December 41.8F/5.4C 66.2F/19C 1.0" December 17F/-8.3C 44F/6.6C 1.83" Native American Culture Arizona is home to 22 Native American Tribes that contribute to the history, culture and economy of the state. While most tribes welcome visitors to experience their proud history and culture, each tribe does have its own guidelines for visitors. In addition, the 22 reservations operate under their own governmental structure. Tribal laws should be viewed in the same manner as U.S. laws and regulations. Before visiting a tribe, you should consult or contact the individual tribe for additional visitor information. When visiting a Native American Tribe or reservation, you should be aware that: Each reservation operates under its own government and its own rules for visitors. Photography and painting may not be allowed. Check with the individual tribe before taking photographs. Dances are typically part of religious ceremonies. Think of these events as you would if you were visiting a holy site, such as a church. Also, be mindful that applause may not be welcome after a dance. Do not climb walls or structures. Sacred areas and graveyards are not usually open to visitors. Reservations and villages should be treated with respect. While most reservations are open to visitors, individual homes are private and should be entered only by invitation. Some arts and crafts sold around reservations may not be authentic. Consult the Indian Arts and Crafts Association[3] for more information about purchasing authentic Native American arts and crafts. Time Zone Arizona is always on Mountain Standard Time and does not observe daylight saving time, except for the Navajo Nation. This means that during the summer months, Arizona is a hour behind the rest of the Mountain Time Zone (or equivalent to the Pacific Time Zone). During the winter months Arizona has the same time as the rest of the Mountain Time Zone. Talk As with all states in the U.S., the primary spoken language in Arizona is English. However, due to the state's proximity to Mexico, Arizona is home to a large population of Mexican-Americans as well as populations from several other Hispanic countries who typically speak the Spanish language (with some Hispanic cultures using a country-specific dialect) in addition to English. Most of the 22 Native American Tribes also have their own distinct language, however it is usually spoken between tribal members. Get in When To Go Generally, the peak season in the desert areas (southern Arizona) lasts from January through March with the next most popular season is from April to May and September through December and the season when visitors can find the greatest values is June through August. Peak and value seasons in the mountainous regions (northern Arizona) are the opposite of the desert areas. Generally, peak season is from June through August, shoulder season is April to May and September through December, and value season is January through March. Peak season in some mid-climate areas of the state, such as Sedona, is from March to May and September through October, with shoulder season from January to February. By Air Arizona's main entry point by air is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport [4] (IATA: PHX, ICAO: KPHX). Located between downtown Phoenix and Tempe, Sky Harbor is served by most major airlines and provides non-stop service to over 100 cities worldwide. The Tucson International Airport [5] (IATA: TUS, ICAO: KTUS), located south of downtown Tucson, is Arizona's second busiest airport. Served by several major airlines, TIA current provides non-stop service to 18 cities. In addition to Sky Harbor and TIA, several regional airports are located throughout Arizona including Flagstaff Pulliam Airport [6] (IATA: FLG, ICAO: KFLG) in Flagstaff, Lake Havasu City Airport in Lake Havasu City and Yuma International Airport [7] (IATA: YUM, ICAO: KYUM) in Yuma. By Car All parts of Arizona are accessible by federal or state highways as well as 22 'Ports of Entry' from surrounding states and Sonora, Mexico. The speed limit on most interstate freeways is 75 miles per hour, however this typically drops to 65 or 55 miles per hour near metropolitan areas. The speed limit on most state highways and U.S. routes in rural Arizona is 65 miles per hour. Arizona law does require that each front-seat occupant wear a seat belt in a car is designed to carry ten or fewer passengers (i.e. not a bus). In addition, children under the age of five must be properly restrained as well. Interstate 10 (I-10) runs east to west across southern Arizona and connects travelers with the major cities of Tucson and Phoenix. I-10 originates out of the east from Las Cruces, New Mexico and out of the west, from Palm Springs, California and Los Angeles. I-10 is a major interstate and does carry a large amount of car and truck traffic. During the week, portions of I-10 can experience very heavy traffic, usually around the Tucson and Phoenix metropolitan areas. Interstate 8 (I-8) runs east to west, running from I-10 to Yuma. I-8 splits from I-10 south of Phoenix and provides the quickest access to Yuma as well as San Diego, California. Interstate 40 (I-40) runs east to west across northern Arizona and connects travelers with the cities of Flagstaff, Williams and Kingman. I-40 comes into Arizona from east after passing through Albuquerque, New Mexico and from the west after passing through Barstow and Needles, California. I-40 is positioned above the Mollogon Rim and is affected by heavy snowfall during winter months. Interstate 19 (I-19) runs south to north in south central Arizona and provides access from Tucson to Nogales as well as entry into Sonora, Mexico. I-19 splits from I-10 just south of Tucson. Because I-19 is a major route to and from Mexico, border patrol checkpoints are common along the interstate, however these checkpoints typically do not take long to pass through. The border crossing at Nogales can be a busy entry and exit point, be patient while waiting to cross the border and have proper documentation ready to present. See 'Stay safe' for additional information. U.S. 93 runs southeast to northwest across northwest Arizona and connects travelers from Las Vegas to I-40 at Kingman. U.S. 93 is the route that the majority of local residents and tourists use to travel to and from Las Vegas and can become very busy on most weekends. On a side note, U.S. 93 also runs across the Hoover Dam on the Arizona / Nevada border. U.S. 60 runs (in a general) east to west across central Arizona, entering the state just south of I-40 from New Mexico. U.S. 60 runs through the White Mountains and the towns of Eagar and Springerville on it's way to Globe and eventually, Phoenix. U.S. 160 runs northeast to southwest across northern Arizona entering the state from Colorado and New Mexico near the Four Corners and ending by joining with U.S. 89 near Tuba City. U.S. 89 runs north to south through northern Arizona and connects travelers from Utah with Page and Flagstaff. In addition, U.S. 89 is the main route for travelers to access the South Rim, North Rim (via Alt-U.S. 89) and the east entrance of Grand Canyon National Park. Alt-U.S. 89 runs through northern Arizona, starting near Fredonia, Arizona and Kanab, Utah, and connects to U.S. 89 south of Page. Alt-U.S. 89 is the main route to access to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park. By Bus Bus service to Arizona is available via Greyhound [8] with several stops available including Flagstaff, Glendale, Phoenix, Tucson and Yuma. By Train Visitors can reach Arizona by rail via two Amtrak routes: The Southwest Chief runs from Chicago to Los Angeles with stops in Winslow, Flagstaff, Williams and Kingman. For much of its route, the Southwest Chief follows historic Route 66, and offers an interesting perspective of the historic road and its surroundings. The Sunset Limited runs from Orlando, Florida, to Los Angeles with stops in Benson, Tucson, Maricopa and Yuma. More information, including reservations, can be found by visiting the Amtrak Wikipedia pages, Amtrak.com [9] or by calling 1800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245). (From inside the US) Get around As with most western states, the easiest way to get around Arizona is via car. The federal and state highway system offers travelers easy access around Arizona whether you are driving your personal car or a rental car. While most major cities in Arizona do offer public transportation, including Greater Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, and Sedona, state-wide public transportation is very limited. By Car Nearly all major attractions and tourist destinations in Arizona are accessible via car. Interstate 17 (I-17) runs south to north across central Arizona and connects travelers with the major cities of Phoenix and Flagstaff. I-17 is the main route north to Sedona, Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon from Phoenix. It provides easy access to Sedona via AZ 179 as well as Prescott, Jerome and Montezuma Castle National Monument. Because I-17 is the major route north, it does a large amount of car and truck traffic, especially during busy weekends and holidays. During the week, portions of I-17 can experience very heavy traffic due to commuters. Renting A Car Renting a car in Arizona is very similar to any other state. Rental cars are available at most major airports, especially the main entry points of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Tucson International Airport. By Bus Bus service to Arizona is available via Greyhound [10] with several stops available including Flagstaff, Glendale, Phoenix, Tucson and Yuma. See Do Eat Drink Stay safe Arizona / Mexico Border Due to Arizona's proximity to the International Boundary with Mexico, visitors should be cautious while in areas near the border. Know where you are at all times, follow good safety procedures and use common sense when making decisions. Do not pick-up hitch hikers. Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight and lock your vehicle. Avoid traveling in well-marked but unofficial "trails." Avoid hiking or camping in areas of major border activity. If you are visiting a national or state park, consult park staff to help plan backcountry travel in safer areas. Report any suspicious behavior to the U.S. Border Patrol. Crossing The Border Thousands of U.S citizens visit the state of Sonora, Mexico from Arizona every year with the majority of travelers returning from an enjoyable experience. However, a minority of travelers due experience difficulties and serious inconveniences while traveling to Mexico. Before traveling to Mexico, ensure that you have the proper documentation and are familiar with the recommendations for foreign travel from the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs[11] Driving Drivers in Arizona should follow the same rules and regulations that apply throughout the U.S. Road Conditions For information on road conditions or traffic information dial *511 from any phone. Road conditions and traffic information is also available online from the Arizona Department of Transportation[12] or the Federal Highway Administration[13]. Dust Storms Dust storms are caused by high winds blowing dust onto highways. Usually brief, dust storms should be taken seriously because they can quickly decrease visibility. If you see a dust storm while driving: Turn on your headlights and slow to an appropriate speed. If you can safely avoid it, do not enter the dust storm. If you need to pull off the road, get as far to the right as possible. Turn off the car, set the parking brake and keep your foot off the brake pedal – other drivers may think you’re a car in motion. Rain Typically during the summer monsoon season, Arizona does experience heavy rainstorms or monsoons. While these storms are usually brief, the heavy rain can cause flooding in low-lying areas. If you find yourself driving during one of these storms: If you need to pull off the road, get as far to the right as possible. Turn off the car, set the parking brake and keep your foot off the brake pedal – other drivers may think you’re a car in motion. Pay attention to hazard signs and roadblocks. If you see a sign that says "Do Not Cross When Flooded", take it seriously and find another way. Don’t cross rain-swollen washes. You could get caught in a flash flood. Emergency Services In the event of an emergency, dial 911. For non-emergency police or fire assistance, contact the local police or fire department directly. Summer Weather Summer temperatures in some areas of Arizona can reach triple digits and visitors should take extra precautions while visiting the state. If outdoors: Rest frequently in shady areas so that the body's temperature has a chance to recover. If unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, gradually increase the pace and limit exercise or work time. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing; sunglasses to protect the eyes; and a wide-brimmed hat to provide shade and keep the head cool. Take special precaution with infants and young children by dressing them in loose, cool clothing and shading their heads and faces with hats or an umbrella. Protect their feet with shoes. Avoid heat-related illness: Never leave infants, children or pets inside a parked vehicle. Increase fluid intake, regardless of activity level. Don't wait until thirsty to drink fluids; drink more liquid than one's thirst indicates. Avoid "heat hangover." Continue to drink fluids even after strenuous activity. This will enable the body to maintain optimum hydration, and help prevent the after effects of heat exposure such as headaches and fatigue. Avoid beverages containing alcohol, caffeine or large amounts of sugar as they dehydrate the body. Get out Arizona's geographic location and the interstate system allow easy access to California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado (via Utah or New Mexico) and the state of Sonora in Mexico. California Los Angeles Palm Springs San Diego Joshua Tree National Park Nevada Henderson Las Vegas Lake Mead National Recreation Area Utah St. George Capitol Reef National Park Canyonlands National Park Glen Canyon National Recreation Area New Mexico Albuquerque Santa Fe Colorado Cortez Durango Canyon of the Ancients National Monument Sonora, Mexico Hermosillo Nogales Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point)