Flagstaff, Winslow and Holbrook

A short drive up scenic Oak Creek Canyon from Sedona or a mere two hours north of Phoenix is Flagstaff, nestled among ponderosa pines at the base of Arizona's highest mountains, the San Francisco Peaks. The hub of northern Arizona, this bustling city of more than 60,000 is a good base for visiting many scenic attractions, such as Lake Powell or the Grand Canyon. Cool summer weather draws visitors from lower desert elevations.

 Often compared to Boulder, Colorado, because of its outdoor treasures, Flagstaff boasts a full complement of activities year-round. Winter brings dry powder to the Snowbowl Ski Resort, with 2,300 feet of vertical, and national forest roads turn into soft, peaceful cross-country ski trails. Operating all summer long, the Snowbowl chair lift stops on the side of Agassiz Peak, Arizona's second-highest summit. Hiking the Kachina Peaks Wilderness Trail deposits you on top of Arizona at Humphreys Peak, an elevation of 12,633 feet. Buffalo Park and Mount Elden provide miles of challenging hiking and mountain biking trails, accessible from within the city limits. Rock climbers choose from several locations, including world-class basalt and limestone cliffs. Horseback riding is offered near the Arizona Snowbowl from Memorial Day to Labor Day.              (Courtesy of Arizonaguide.com)