海角社区

Arizona is one of the most ecologically diverse states in the U.S. The Sonoran Desert stretches through much of the southwestern parts of the state, while the north is home to famous natural landmarks like the Grand Canyon and Colorado River. In many aspects, Arizona is one of the most exciting sites to visit for anyone seeking an escape into nature.聽

Thankfully, for tourists and adventures, there are dozens of small, quaint, and charming communities all across this great state. They offer visitors a break from the city and an immersive experience in nature, with warm hospitality, restful spas, and resorts in Arizona's sun-soaked beauty.聽

Tubac

Tubac is a small town in southern Arizona near the Mexican border. It boasts one of the most abundant wilderness areas for anyone hoping to escape the city and indulge in the pristine landscape. Puerto Canyon rests near the town center and is perfect for hiking, cycling, and other nature excursions.聽

Several nearby parks just outside the town鈥檚 borders are ideal outdoor sites, including the Red Spring Single Track System. This trail stretches around 25 miles, with picnic areas and Ramadas scattered throughout the natural, rugged landscape. After a long day in nature, consider stopping by the Tubac Golf Resort and Spa for a delicious meal and restful massage.

The Tubac Presidio State Historic Park And Museum is a great place to explore the local history and check out local artifacts. They have many exhibits, including the Griffin Museum exhibit in the historic museum with displays of ancient art pieces from Native tribes, Spaniards, and early settlers.聽

Tombstone

Around an hour and a half east of Tubac is Tombstone, one of Arizona's most unique towns. Tombstone is one of the most authentic Wild West towns incorporated in 1881. Guests can visit sites like The Birdcage, a historic location showcasing some of the town鈥檚 oldest artifacts and collectibles. One of the main attractions is the Black Moriah, a gold and silver-coated herse that once took the deceased to the local cemetery between 1881 and 1917. It鈥檚 also a hotspot for ghost activity for anyone hoping to get a little spooked while visiting Arizona.

History lovers who want a slightly less spooky experience should check out Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park. The stunning courthouse is an excellent example of Victorian architecture and the park鈥檚 center of attention. It was built in 1882 and served as the town鈥檚 courthouse until 1931. Not far away is the Old Tombstone Western Theme Park, a fantastic site for thrill seekers and history lovers alike. Guests can enjoy the gunfight show, pan for gold, or indulge in other Western-style forms of entertainment.聽

Jerome

Jerome is one of Arizona's cutest small towns, located approximately five hours north of Tombstone on Cleopatra Hill. This community began as a mining community, founded in 1876, with the population multiplying to 15,000 between its founding and the 1920s. Although the population slowly declined after the Great Depression, it still retains its stunning charm and reputation as the Wickedest Town in the West.聽

History buffs will love the many haunted locations within Jerome鈥檚 borders, including the Sliding Jail. Jerome鈥檚 Sliding Jail once served as the jailhouse for local criminals since its construction in 1905. However, after underground blasts disrupted the soil around the jailhouse in 1938, the cells were evacuated and closed. It began sliding off its original wooden structure until it settled 225 feet down the cliffside where it sits today.聽聽

Not far from the old jail is the Haunted Hamburger restaurant and Caduceus Cellars & Merkin Vineyards. Haunted Hamburger serves delicious foods in a reportedly haunted atmosphere filled with harmless yet mischievous spirits. Caduceus Cellars & Merkin Vineyards is the perfect spot for any wine lovers, with the owner, Maynard Keenan, being a knowledgeable wino and lead singer in the alternative rock band Tool. Outdoor lovers will also enjoy the Jerome State Historic Park, which sits just a few minutes outside the town鈥檚 borders to the north.聽

Carefree

Carefree is a charming small town sitting about two hours south of Jerome and just 45 minutes north of Phoenix. It鈥檚 one of Arizona's friendliest towns, with Easy Street serving as one of the town鈥檚 most active areas for shoppers and out-of-town explorers. The town got its name in the 1950s because its founders were visionary yet laid-back individuals. This laid-back aura still permeates the community, making it ideal for anyone hoping to escape the 海角社区's craziness.聽

Several restful spas in town can help even the most stressed visitors unwind and relax. Civana, a wellness resort and spa, is an excellent place to stay while visiting. Their location exudes wellness, and they pride themselves in their caring and nurturing atmosphere.聽

People who love exploring the natural beauty of the desert should check out Carefree Desert Gardens, a 4-acre region with all kinds of native plant life. Nearby is the Galloway Wash Preserve, a great spot for a little hike to take in the sun and beautiful landscape. The Fort Apache Reservation is about three hours outside the city and is an excellent place for travelers to explore on a self-guided tour if they want to understand the local native heritage better.聽

Page

Page is a little community located four hours north of Carefree and just a couple of minutes away from the Utah border. It鈥檚 one of the closest small towns to the Grand Canyon and is an excellent place to stay while planning a visit to this natural national monument. However, that isn鈥檛 to say the town doesn鈥檛 have plenty to offer in its own right. The Colorado River flows just north and west of the community and has several fantastic nature sites worth checking out.聽

Some notable locations not far outside town along the river are the Glen Canyon and the native petroglyphs near the Horseshoe Bend. Travelers hoping to explore these locations should consider using a tour guide or groups like Wilderness River Adventures. Wilderness River Adventures takes travelers on rating adventures down the Colorado River, affording some of the best views of the natural and historical wonders.

Cave Creek

Cave Creek, like its small-town neighbor Carefree, is another fantastic little community located just a few miles outside Phoenix. This town is a gold mine for outdoor explorers who enjoy desert scenery and classic ranches. Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area is the ideal place for tourists just beginning their exploration of the area. The site offers terrific cycling and hiking in the naturally beautiful desert landscape, with simple 1.2-mile tracts and complex trails taking trekkers on a 4.6-mile trip around the park.聽

MTM Ranch has it all for those seeking a guided experience on horseback. Visitors can experience the desert鈥檚 glory on horseback and check out the many locations of the 1200-acre site. One of the most popular locations for travelers to visit is the Historic Tonto National Forest, but beware, this is one of their longest trails.聽

Anyone who loves the outdoors but wants a slightly shorter trek should check out Black Mountain Trail. While the trail itself is a bit difficult since the terrain is rocky and steep in places, it usually takes just under two hours to complete and is an excellent spot to view the Sonora Desert. The Cave Creek Museum is also a wonderful place to spend the afternoon and is ideal for people traveling with children or the elderly.

Greer

Greer is a beautiful, unincorporated census area located approximately four and half hours east of Cave Creek and just outside the Fort Apache Reservation. It鈥檚 well-known for its many resorts and hotels, making it a very hospitable location. However, it's also home to several creeks and rivers and plenty of trails worthy of exploration. The most notable river is the Little Colorado River, which flows through the eastern parts of the town.聽

Anyone hoping to spend some quality time outdoors near this river should consider booking a couple of nights at Sunrise Park Resort Campground. Or, for guests hoping for more comfortable lodging or plan on visiting in the winter, the Antler Ridge cabins are ideal. Some fantastic trails just outside of town are Butler Canyon Trailhead and East Fork Trail #95.

Conclusion

When visiting Arizona, most people think of Phoenix, Mesa, and Tuscon. These large cities do have a lot to offer, like exhilarating activities and an active nightlife. However, nothing compares to the charming little communities scattered all across this state. Canyons, state parks, pure rivers, mountains, and desert landscapes fill these little towns and provide a warm and wholesome environment where anyone will feel welcome when visiting.聽

Whether seeking an opportunity to explore some of the most stunning natural landmarks in the U.S. or hoping for a spa day in the sun, Arizona won't disappoint.聽