Agua Fria National Monument
Approximately 40 miles north of downtown Phoenix, Arizona
40 miles north of central Phoenix, is the 71,000-acre Agua Fria National Monument.
This Arizona National Monument encompasses two mesas and the canyon of the Agua Fria River. (See…we told you it was like an ice-cold beverage.)
Plants, wildlife, and even a slumbering volcano make up this diverse region. The monument ranges from 2,150 feet above sea level along the Agua Fria Canyon to about 4,600 feet in the northern hills. Agua Fria is much more than just a desert and river. It’s actually one of the most significant systems of prehistoric sites in the American Southwest. Thus the national monument status.
In addition to the rich record of human history, the monument contains outstanding biological resources. The area is the home to coyotes, bobcats, antelope, mule deer, javelina, a variety of small mammals, and songbirds. Eagles and other raptors may also be seen in the monument. Native fish such as the longfin dace, the Gila mountain sucker, the Gila chub, and the speckled dace, exist in the Agua Fria River and its tributaries.
Explore The Devil’s Bridge
The Devils Bridge is one of the more popular trails in Sedona Arizona, so be prepared to share it with others. That being said, it’s totally worth it if you want your photo on top of this iconic red rock arch.
Getting Started Info:
Distance: 2 miles with an OHV; 4.2 miles without an OHV
Length of Time: 1 to 3 hours
Elevation Gain: 400 to 500 feet
Difficulty: Easy with one short section of steps/rock scrambling
Red Rock Pass: You will need to purchase a Red Rock Pass for this hike. The day pass costs $5 and you display it in your car window at the parking lot.
Guides to take you there
The Devil Went Down to…Sedona?
Did he play his fiddle here too?
Hiking The Devil’s Bridge Trail:
In the Beginning:
To start your hike up to Devil’s Bridge, you will walk Dry Creek Road for a little over a mile. The road is used for off-roaders and Pink Jeep Tours, so please be careful while hiking! Dry Creek Road is very bumpy and rough as well, so be sure to watch your step as you make your way up it.
The Climb:
Now that you’ve been walking Dry Creek Road for almost 1.3 miles, you’ll finally come to what looks like a small dirt parking lot. The lot should be on the right going up towards the cliffs, Spoiler Alert: This lot is where Devil’s Bridge Trail starts. The rest of your hike will be steep and even a bit of a workout. Don’t worry, though, it’ll be worth it.
The hike from here is only be about .8 miles.
Be on the lookout for a trail fork that allows you to go left or right.
Headed Down:
Want to go on a different type of adventure on Devil’s Bridge Trail? Take a left at this fork, and you will be presented with a view from the bottom of Devil’s Bridge! A bottom view is a popular option for hikers who don’t like heights or folks who want a different perspective for photography purposes. I have never been to the bottom; however, it’s on my list!
The Instagram Shot
If you want to see the Bridge from the “classic instagram” spot and get your Devil’s Bridge picture of you standing on it, take a right and continue your climb. This trail will eventually feature some steps made of stone that’ll bring you to the top where your hike will be complete.
The View From The Top
After some off-roading on your feet and a bit of a climb, you’ll finally make it up to Devil’s Bridge. Will you step on the Bridge? Will you not? It’s like the ultimate “choose your own adventuyre” story. (Just make sure the ending of your story is a safe one.)
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Montezuma Castle National Monument
Cliffside safe haven with a killer view
Montezuma Castle National Monument
How about a cliffside location with a river view
Montezuma Castle National Monument
Afraid of heights? You may not have been a great asset to the Sinagua people living in the Verde Valley around 1050 AD. As perhaps one of the most well preserved cliff dwellings in all of North America, Montezuma Castle is truly remarkable. The Sinagua were clearly ahead of their time in terms of engineering, as well as understanding the seasonal flooding in the area. Using this to their advantage, they built their house above the flood plain and nestled into the side of a sheer limestone cliff. In fact, the main structure within Montezuma Castle National Monument is 90 feet off the valley floor and consists of a 5-story, 20 room structure which archaeologists believe to have been built in a day! Okay, much like Rome, it took substantially longer. Like 300 years in the case of this ‘castle’ in the desert. Take a peek in the Visitor Center. Enjoy the short walk down the paved trail to see the ruins. Also, enjoy the lush valley, Beaver Creek, and the displays along the short loop.
Montezuma Well
While you are in the area, don’t miss Montezuma Well. A mere 15 minutes to the North of Montezuma Castle, this literal oasis in the desert has played a major in the history of the area. First, learn about the high levels of CO2, arsenic, and calcium in the water. Then, learn why that is important the native plants and animals in the surrounding area. Lastly, keep an eye out Sonoran Mud Turtle which may also be endemic to this area.
Hours, Location, and Facilities
More details for planning your visit
Visitor Center: open daily 8am – 5pm (except Dec 25th and Jan 1st)
Pets: Dogs are allowed on the park trails, but must be on a leash. And, as always, pick up after your pet.
Fees: $10/adult; Age 15 and younger are free
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Walnut Canyon National Monument
Step into Southwest cultures of the past
Walnut Canyon National Monument
Rich cultures of the past once thrived in this seemingly inhospitable terrain.
Walnut Canyon National Monument is home to some of the most incredible cliff dwellings you’ll ever see.
There are two different routes you can take to soak in the Walnut Canyon experience. For those willing and able to tackle a 1-mile round trip hike, you’ll get up close and personal to these ancient dwellings and see with your own eyes the ingenuity of the ancient inhabitants. You’ll have the chance to not only walk right next to and in the dwellings, but you’ll be able to look across the canyon and see additional dwellings built within the cliff. It’s a remarkable sight that you won’t want to miss.
As a word of caution, be sure to go prepared. There are lots of stairs and it does get hot in the summer months so be sure to pack some water and a snack. The ancient inhabitants didn’t have the luxury of fruit snacks and a Camelbak but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take advantage of those luxuries.
If you’re not able to go on a mile hike or do lots of stairs, don’t worry at all. The Rim Trail will still provide a great experience with views of a pinion pine forest, partially rebuilt pithouse, and ancient pueblos. This 0.7 round-trip stroll is worth every minute of your time. The scenic overlooks provide views of a gorgeous canyon as well as the ancient cliff dwellings.
Hours, Location, and Facilities
More details for planning your visit
Additional trip-planning information:
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Hours of operation- 9 AM- 4:30 PM (check nps.gov for holiday hours of operation)
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Entrance Fee- $15 per person
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Pets- Leashed pets are allowed on the Rim trail but not allowed in the visitors center or the Island trail. Please clean up after your pets.
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Dead Horse Ranch
Named after the literal source – Learn More
Dead Horse Ranch State Park
From top to bottom and everywhere in between, Arizona will blow your mind.
Opened & Dedicated June 1, 1977
By Charles R. Eatherly – Arizona State Park Website

“Dead Horse Ranch State Park is located adjacent to and across the Verde River from the community of Cottonwood. It is centrally located near several major population centers such as Flagstaff, Phoenix, and Prescott. When using Dead Horse Ranch as a base, one has a variety of attractions to visit, including: Jerome State Historic Park, Fort Verde State Historic Park, Red Rock State Park, Slide Rock State Park, Tuzigoot National Monument, Montezuma Castle and Well National Monuments, Oak Creek Canyon, Prescott National Forest, Coconino National Forest, and the popular towns of Sedona and Jerome.
Calvin “Cap” Ireys purchased Dead Horse Ranch in 1950. “Cap” told State Parks Director Dennis McCarthy that his children named the ranch. The first time the family looked at the property, they saw a dead horse lying in the field, and after looking at a number of properties “Cap” asked them which one they liked the best. The answer was the one with the dead horse. After they acquired the property, they named it Dead Horse Ranch.”
Park and Facility Hours
The park is open year-round.
Gates close at dark. Seasonal hours may apply.
Day Use
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. daily
Visitor Center/Park Store
8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily
Holiday Hours
Thanksgiving: 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Christmas Eve: 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Christmas: Closed
Park Entrance Fee
Per vehicle (1-4 Adults): $7.00
Individual/bicycle: $3.00
State Parks Amenities
The main boat ramp will be closed on January 2 until further notice.
During the closure, the Cholla ramp will be available.
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Patagonia Lake State Park
Tucked away in the rolling hills of southeastern Arizona is a hidden treasure
Explore the area around Patagonia Lake
Patagonia Lake State Park was established in 1975. The park offers a campground, beach, picnic area with ramadas, tables and grills, a creek trail, boat ramps, and a marina.
The nearby Lakeside Market offers boat rentals and supplies. The campground overlooks the lake where anglers catch crappie, bass, bluegill, catfish, and trout. The park is popular for water skiing, fishing, camping, picnicking, and hiking. And the tracks of the New Mexico/Arizona railroad lie beneath the lake and remnants of the old historic line may be found at the Nature Conservancy in Patagonia.
Facility Information
Visitor Center/Entrance Station
The Visitor Center is located within Patagonia Lake State Park.
The park has an automatic entrance gate that closes at 10 p.m. and no entry is allowed until it opens again at 4 a.m. All camping, day use and annual permits can be purchased at the Ranger Station. A small lobby is available with various brochures describing surrounding areas and destinations. Maps are also sold here.
Park Store and Marina
The market is operated by the park concessionaire and is located in the boat trailer parking lot. They sell fishing licenses, firewood, grocery items, ice cream, soda, beer and wine and other camping supplies. You can contact the Market at (520) 287-5545. Boat rentals are available at the Patagonia Lake Marina, please contact the marina at (520) 287-2804 for reservations and information. Hours vary by season.
Picnic Areas/Shelters
Numerous picnic tables and ramadas are located at the beach and day use areas.
Group: Day Use Areas
A group day use area capable of seating 60 people under a ramada is available with a$5.00 non-refundable fee plus a $25 facility use fee. Visitors then pay park entry fees per vehicle. There are no group camping areas available.
Camping & RV Sites
Site reservations are available by calling the Reservation Center at 877-MY-PARKS. You can call seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MST. You may also reserve campsites online.
105 developed campsites with a picnic table, a fire-ring/grill, and parking for two vehicles. Select sites also have a ramada. Sites have 20/30 amp and 50 amp voltage. Sites tend to fill up in the evening from May until November. Campsite lengths vary but most can accommodate any size RV. Quiet hours (no generators, music, or loud voices) are from 9 p.m. – 8 a.m. There are also two non-electric campsites available. They have a picnic table, fire-ring/grill and parking for 2 vehicles with ramada for shade. These two sites are 22 ft. long for camper/trailers.
There will be an additional per night fee for second vehicles. The fee will be paid upon arrival at the park. The fee does not apply to vehicles towed behind a primary vehicle when the primary vehicle remains at the site and the towed vehicle is used for transportation.
For cancellation policy see Reservation Policies: Terms & Conditions
Boat-in Camping Sites
12 boat-in campsites are available. Sites have a picnic table, fire-ring and are accessible by boat only. Some sites have portable restrooms. Quiet hours (no generators, music, or loud voices) are from from 9 p.m. – 8 a.m. You may reserve boat-in sites online.
For cancellation policy see Reservation Policies: Terms & Conditions
Dump Station
A dump station is centrally located on the park for all overnight campers at no additional charge.
Showers
Two restroom/shower buildings are available. Showers are available to all overnight campers at no additional cost.
Restrooms
Two restrooms with shower/flush toilet facilities and three restrooms with flush toilet facilities. All restrooms are handicap accessible.
Wildlife Viewing
An abundance of birds and animals can be seen around the park. Download the bird list to learn more. Also, check out the wildlife viewing opportunities found within the park.
Park Rules
Please familiarize yourself with the park rules and help us preserve this irreplaceable resource.
- Littering is unlawful
- No glass containers or pets are allowed on the beach.
- Keep pets on a 6 ft. leash and do not leave unattended. Pick up after your pets.
- Campfires must be attended and are allowed only in approved fire rings. Wood gathering is not permitted.
- Generators are not permitted.
- All vehicles must remain on paved surfaces.
- Quiet hours are 9 p.m. until 8 a.m.
- Day-use hours are from 4 a.m. until 10 p.m.
- Park entrance gate opens at 4 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m.
- Damaging or removing the natural rocks, vegetation or public property is prohibited.
- Personal Watercraft (jet skis) and above-water-exhausted boats (jet boats) are prohibited on the lake.
- “No Wake Zone” speed on east half of lake. All boat traffic is counterclockwise.
- Waterskiing and towing not allowed on weekends and holidays May 1st through September 30th.
- Boaters should familiarize themselves with all Arizona watercraft rules and regulations.
- Camping only permitted in designated sites with a maximum of six adults and no more than 12 people per site.
- Check out time is 12 noon. Check-in time is at 2 p.m.
- Contact ranger residence, or call 911 for after-hour emergencies.
State Parks Amenities
The main boat ramp will be closed on January 2 until further notice.
During the closure, the Cholla ramp will be available.
Find more Arizona State Parks
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Slide Rock State Park
An unexpected turn btween Flagstaff and Sedona
Slide Rock State Park
Between Flagstaff and Sedona, take an unexpected turn into Slide Rock State Park.
Slide into an amazing summer trip in Arizona with a visit to Slide Rock State Park. With plenty of parking, pull your vehicle into the parking lot and it’s just a short walk to get to the fun. Situated on a 43-acre historic apple orchard, Slide Rock State Park offers fun that everyone in the family will enjoy. Slide Rock State Park offers incredible views and tons of family fun with natural rock slides that are smooth and fun to slide on at Slide Rock. Oak Creek has several areas that are kid-friendly without fast-moving water where they can enjoy the natural waterpark. With roughly ½ mile to play and let the kids run wild. Have fun and be safe!
The best time of year to visit is the summer months when the air temperature is warm and the water will cool you off. However, for those looking for a breathtaking experience, don’t hesitate to visit in the off-season months like September & October which offer fewer crowds but the water temperature might be a little shocking. Yes, it does get cold in Northern Arizona so plan accordingly.
Slide Rock State Park also offers hiking without having to get wet. In addition to great hiking and incredible views, be sure to take advantage of the apple picking which is sure to make memories for the entire family.
Word to the wise- The rocks in the water are slippery! Be extra cautious playing in and around the water. If you have kids? Make sure you watch them closely. Slide Rock State Park is an amazing place to visit but there is no lifeguards present. Swim cautiously and at your own risk.
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Hours, Location, and Facilities
More details for planning your visit
Visitor Center: open daily (except Dec 25th); specific hours vary by season
Trails are open during daylight hours
Fees:
- Private Vehicle: $10
- Bicyclist/Pedestrian: $5
- Motorcycle: $5
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