Snowbelt flatlanders planning AZ visit

[henrydog]

Hi there. This is my first post on this wonderful site. Haven't had time to really dig into it but there seems to be a huge wealth of info here. Our family group is planning to visit the Phoenix-Tuscon area, probably in late March, although we can be flexible on the timing.

Our group consists of me and my wife, both in our mid-30s in decent enough shape, her father (Joeymon1 here) in his late-50s?, and in great shape(!), our (by then) 3-1/2 yr old, and dog - a 6 yr-old lab. We'll have a pop-up camper with us and a 4x4.

In terms of experience, we've been to the SW every spring for a number of years, generally to UT. Did a 5-day Clear Creek hike in 99 or 00? in the big canyon, although that was without the dog or kid obviously.

We are looking for recommendations for easy to moderate hikes, and suggestions on places to stay. Our preference is for cheaper campgrounds with limited facilities for most of the time - like the BLM ones. We are also prepared to leave the dog in the camper some days if its not too hot since he's getting on (We'd even be open to not bringing the dog at all I guess), and not all of us have to go on all the hikes; in particular I'd like to knock maybe one tougher hike myself.

I am trying to get a better idea of what's available by browsing around here, but there is just so much.. and it all looks good to me right now! I'm looking forward to doing some write-ups also, since I've had some experience doing those on an amateur basis for a magazine.

henrydog

[justind145]

Welcome!

As you probably know, Arizona varies greatly in topography and climate as you move throughout the state. Some recommendations on places to stay:

Phoenix: Staying around here would be warmer than all other locations and give you quick immediate access to such great places as the superstition wilderness, pine mountain wilderness and other trails in the vicinty. Good access to freeways though, so it makes getting around easy.

Prescott: This city (also where I live) will be cooler than Phoenix but not quite as cold as Flagstaff or Grand Canyon. Very centrally located, gives good access to Prescott National Forest which offers good chance for exploration. Lots of old west and mining memorabilia scatters the area. Also good access to hiking in such places as Sedona or Camp Verde.

Flagstaff: Colder than all other options, home of Mt. Humprhies. Many great chances for exploration, interesting volcanic history, fairly thick forests. Good access to Grand Canyon, Sedona and other cities around.

One other option that is not a city, is going to visit Havasupai falls. You will have to get a tribal permit so call ahead, but its worth it. Look on the site for the writeup about Havasupai Falls.[/img]

[joebartels]

Here's what's on the menu for BLM - March

[henrydog]

Thanks for the replies. I think we'll focus on the Superstitions.