ARIZONA: No land in the United States has played such a significant role in shaping the image of the Old West quite like Arizona. The spirit of the legendary cowboy country is kept alive throughout the state in authentic communities, guest ranches, and historical parks that pay homage to the famous lawmen and notorious gunslingers of the West. The late 1800s have been carefully preserved for folks eager to experience the “cowboy life”-when the West was nothing less than wild.

Ready for adventure? If you think you can handle a day in the life of a cowboy, then Arizona’s Old West façade is perfect. Travel through the Grand Canyon like a real buccaneer, taking in Arizona’s beautiful landscape, high and low dessert regions, amazing canyon lands, and quaint, age-old towns. From Tucson in the South, Phoenix and Sedona in the heart of Arizona, and the majestic Grand Canyon and Monument Valley in the North, it will be the journey of lifetime- full of inspiration, adventure, and folklore.

WHEN TO GO: Almost every day is a good day in Arizona. The weather is mild and comfortable in the winter with temperatures ranging between 87F/31C in October and 75F/24C by March. Mountain areas and Northern Arizona usually stay a bit cooler. In the summer, you’ll have the opportunity to add an extra dimension to your “Wild West” experience with temperatures soaring up to 100F/38C in June and July. Afraid of lightning? Well, you shouldn’t be if you’re heading to canyon country from August to October. Monsoon season in Arizona calls for amazing thunder and lightning storms (which can be a bit on the scary side), but don’t expect severe weather to set in until 2PM and 6PM. Check the local weather forecast before you start hiking, rock climbing, golfing, or engaging in any other outdoor activities.

WHAT TO DO: Arizona offers up great outdoor activities, nature park explorations, old Western towns, vast areas of canyon land (with sometimes harsh desert), and authentic Indian Reservations. Take a Grand Tour around the West and find Tucson and Old Tucson, Phoenix and Scottsdale, Prescott and Sedona, as well as the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley. Here’s a short list of activities and tours in Arizona that capture the essence of Old West State.

1) Secret Desert Oasis Hike: Explore hot springs hidden in the depths of the Grand Canyon surrounded by abundant shade, maidenhair fern, crimson monkey flowers, and wild grapes. Over 80% of the canyon’s biodiversity surrounds these rare water sources. The trail drops steeply at first, but levels out nicely for the second half of the breathtaking and refreshing hike.

2) Imperial Tour: Embark on this 45- 50 minute tour of panoramic magnificence of the Eastern Grand Canyon, incorporating the renowned beauty of the North Canyon. The spectacular views of the Painted Desert and Colorado River alone make this tour worth it weight in gold. With so much to see and experience, the tour is as unique as it is beautiful flying the lowest and slowest for optimal sightseeing. Papillion helicopters travel a route specifically designed to highlight the most memorable attractions. So, climb aboard and view the endless canyons, gorges, precipices, and spires in all of their exquisite splendor. Don’t forget to bring you’re camera!

3) Sedona and Montezuma Castle: Sedona is well known for outstanding red rock scenery that has inspired artists for many years. Enjoy the wonderful scenery and browse through hundreds of age-old shops and galleries in the area. Tour guides can share the rich history of the region as you travel. Later, stop at Montezuma Castle for a view of ancient Native American cliff dwelling. The informative visitor center contains artifacts recovered from prehistoric dwelling periods.

4) Colorado River Float Trip: This explorative river ride seasonally operates from April 1st to October 1st. Pack your sunscreen and be prepared for a fantastic day! Begin the tour across the vast Navajo Indian Reservation on route to the shores of the Colorado River at Glen Canyon. The board your raft for a scenic and relaxing float trip. Towering canyon walls and ancient petroglyphs are just a few highlights throughout the day. Enjoy a tasty lunch and get and up close view of the massive Glen Canyon Dam.

5) Tucson and the Queen Mine Tour: Just a few miles outside of Tucson, take a grand tour of the Bisbee Queen Copper mine, originally opened in 1877. Get outfitted in full minors gear, including original yellow jackets, light equipped helmets, and boots. Take in the sites of the Old West underground in original mine structures. Don’t forget to take a strut about town, browsing through the charming specialty shops and restaurants. Who knows? You may just find a piece of copper to take home.

So, if you’re feeling up to an adventure, the Wild West of Arizona is waiting just for you!