About 14 miles north of Flagstaff in the Coconino Forest, a network of caverns and lava-encased passages lie just below the feet of hikers, hunters and other recreation seekers.
This relatively small slit, hidden amongst boulders, will take you there. Just large enough to accommodate a grown a man, this doorway leads to a mile-long lave tube.
Famed for its stunning red rock cliffs, Sedona is one of those Arizona cities you simply can’t get enough of. People travel from around the world to catch a glimpse of the crimson landscape sitting in our backyard.
Yet the red rocks alone aren’t drawing tourists. Many flock to Sedona to feel the power of energy vortexes dotting the region. In this sense, a vortex is a spiraling, tornado-like force of spiritual energy emanating from the center of the Earth. Many believe these places are ideal for prayer, meditation and healing, as the energy is said to interact with one’s inner self. Vortexes are also known to increase psychic energy and make you more self aware.
The Boynton Canyon Vortex is one of several main vortexes in the area. It’s located just west of Enchantment Resort. Some vortexes are said to have either masculine or feminine energies. The Boynton Canyon vortex has both, which is supposedly ideal for balancing energy within oneself and with relationships.
Located at the heart of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and Dreamy Draw Recreation Area, Piestewa Peak serves as a prominent landmark along State Route 51, just minutes northeast of downtown Phoenix. The summit of this 2,608-foot peak offers 360-degree views of the Valley.
Piestewa Peak is about 14 million years old, relatively young in geologic terms. It’s primarily composed of a metamorphic rock called schist.
Now encased by cityscape and a smattering of lavish homes, the area surrounding Piestewa Peak was once a center for mining and grazing around Phoenix. The city took possession in 1959, and it later became a local hub for day hiking and recreation.
The summit trail is one of the most popular hikes in all of Arizona – and even the nation. According to the City of Phoenix, the trail receives 4,000 to 10,000 hikers per week.
Tom’s Thumb Trail, on the north side of the McDowell Mountains, is dotted with curious rock formations, especially this particular boulder bearing a striking resemblance to one of Snow White’s seven dwarfs.
Could this be Tom? Perhaps. The figure appears near one of the final bends leading to the summit (aka Tom’s Thumb). What do you think?
Want to see it for yourself? Tom’s Thumb Trail is ideal for hikers seeking a bit of a challenge. The trail kicks off with a series of steep, somewhat slippery switchbacks. It levels off among classic Sonoran Preserve beauty – granite boulders, numerous cacti species and lots of lizards that liven up the neatly manicured trail. Views of Scottsdale’s urban sprawl are visible at the peak.
About 40 miles north of Tucson, Picacho Peak abruptly rises 1,500 feet above the flat desert landscape typical to many other parts of Southern Arizona. It’s among the most prominent landmarks along the highly traveled stretch of Interstate 10 connecting Tucson and Phoenix.
Thousands of drivers pass by the ominous peak daily; most unaware of the adventure it holds, or its historical significance.
Picacho is the highest peak among a cluster of rugged rock formations shaped by an ancient volcanic flow. It serves as the cornerstone of Picacho Peak State Park, which boasts 3,700 acres of recreational opportunities that aren’t visible from the highway. In addition to numerous hiking trails, the park has campgrounds, ramadas, picnic areas, grills and a LEED-certified visitor center.
According to Arizona State Parks, this region was frequently traveled by Mormon settlers and forty-niners throughout the mid 1800s. It was also the scene of the westernmost battle of the Civil War. In April 1862, a couple dozen Union and Confederate troops clashed near the base of the mountain while scouting. Three men were killed.
