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Writer's pictureNoe Heivanui

The Grand (canyon) State of Arizona


Photo by Leslie Cross

Happy National Arizona Day!


On June 21st, National Arizona Day recognizes the state that joined 48 states into a contiguous unit.

Arizona is home to the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in North America. Established around 1000 A.D., the village of Old Oraibi is located on the Hopi Indian Reservation in Navajo county.

Known as the Grand Canyon State, Arizona brings the wilderness to you. The breathtaking views of the Colorado Plateau, which incidentally took over 70 million years to form into towering stone, are now one of nature’s grand centerpieces.

Carved into limestone cliffs along Beaver Creek, a well-preserved dwelling towers above the scrubland below. Home to the Sinagua Indians around 1500 AD, the Aztecs mistakenly named this place Montezuma Castle.

I took this photo during a trip to Sedona back in 2013

Like many of the Western states, Arizona Easterners came with the prospect of land, gold, and adventure. Cowtowns were born, and battle lines were drawn between those who wanted the territory and those who were already there.

Find your way to the Saguaro National Park to see the mighty cacti of the west. These majestic plants of the desert can grow up to 50 feet tall. Under the right conditions, they can live to be over 150 years old.

If you’re not buying the line “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity,” and the soaring daytime summer temperatures of Arizona get to you, Lake Mead may be the cure. With hiking, watersport, camping, and beaches, there are plenty of ways to relax, have fun, and cool off. Plus this Arizona Bucket List Adventure Guide & Journal fits the need for any adventure you desire.


Have you ever been to Arizona?! I drove through there twice but the second time I stayed at a wonderful B&B in 2013 where I bought a piece of jewelry from the host who also makes jewelry with gems and stones (I don't remember the name of the place but I will look for it) - I have seen the Grand Canyon - it was quite an experience, very different from seeing it from above while flying over it! It was beautiful, majestic, and it will make you want to come back for more! There are many outdoor activities to do and places to see. One trip is just not enough. Of course, the next time I go, I'll have to go to the favorite local spots to try their wine! Here are three places I'd like to visit, and let me know if you've been and what your experience was like

Sedona
Photo by Leslie Cross

The first thing that caught my eye about this winery was the fact that they allow pets with you! I would LOVE to be able to spend time with Geoff and our pups with a glass of locally made rose. They offer wine tastings and food pairings, live music, and a patio to enjoy it all on.


Although this winery doesn't have a vineyard, they still make their own wine with high quality products! Their tasting room offers a dozen different wines to try, daily! I will one day try their rosé!


This winery makes 100% Petit Sirah, a rose that is absolutely amazing. What really makes me want to visit this winery is their Wine Bus. Yes, you read that right. You can play music, bring your favorite wine, and tour the vineyard with your friends! Sounds like a must-see to me.




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