Resolve to Travel to These Desert Destinations This New Year

The new year is nearly upon us and for many of us it means time to make resolutions. While many may commit to a new fitness routine, diet or advancement in their work, many may be in a place to resolve to travel to new places. Traveling is important because it helps us to stay open to new ways of living and being. It’s a great way to expand your horizons and when it comes to Arizona the horizons are some of the most breath-taking views in the world. While most of the country lies in a blanket of snow, many flock to Arizona for the amazing views, unique plant life and moderate temperatures, attracting snowbirds and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

While much of Arizona is nearly unbearable in the summer with highs which exceed 120° the winter is a great time to truly explore this amazing state, which has so many diverse microclimates ready to experience. Arizona is ripe with dazzling deserts, canyons, and mountains in its 113,998 square mile footprint offering something for just about everyone including sunny, warm deserts to ski resorts offering six-month seasons. Here are some of our favorite ways to experience our state to start off the new year!

SEDONA

Aside from its beautiful mountains and rock formations, Sedona, Arizona is a city of mystique and intrigue, as many believe that there is a presence of concentrated energy among the red sandstone rock formations. In fact, many believe Sedona to be one of the few vortexes in the world along with Machu Picchu in Peru and Stonehenge in England. A rare natural intersection of electromagnetic earth energy, those who subscribe to the idea of vortexes believe that it’s the forces that can be felt physically and spiritually. Even if you don’t subscribe to the idea of vortexes, you can still enjoy Sedona’s quirky downtown, with a plethora of art galleries, crystal shops, reiki healers, and lots of New Age-y vibes.

SAGUARO NATIONAL PARK

For those who just aren’t ready to suit up for the snow in the higher altitudes of Arizona this winter, find yourself among other snowbirds as you explore the one-of-a-kind landscape, plant and wildlife of Saguaro National Park. With average winter temperatures in the high 60s you can be sure to soak up the sun and get that well deserved boost of vitamin C. A short trip from Tucson, you can enjoy everything the city has to offer and slip away for a dose of fresh air and desert magic whenever you are ready.

Upon entering the park you’ll find yourself marveling at the century old saguaros everywhere you look, which can reach 50 feet high. With 143 miles to explore, you can spend years exploring the many trails and still discover more from this rich desert ecosystem. While the Eastern part of the park is known for mountain trails the West is rich with dense forests of Saguaro which house an ecosystem for one-of-a-kind birds, bats, insects, lizards, and mammals which feast on their fruit, flowers, and flesh.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Perhaps one of the most iconic natural wonders, known nationally is the Grand Canyon. On just about everyone’s bucket list this amazing natural wonder is situated at 7,000 feet above sea level with winter weather ranging from the high 30s to the mid 60s. Any time of year the Grand Canyon offers jaw dropping views and hikes but in winter you can have the unique experience of hiking amongst red rock canyon walls dusted with snow and ice. If winter hiking is not your thing, we recommend splurging on a helicopter scenic tour where you’ll experience an eagle eye view into the canyon with walls which stretch over 6,000 feet high!

CC SUNSCREENS 

Every adventure must come to an end and once you’re done traveling and ready for home, those of us who live in Arizona still must brace for the hot sun which comes back in full force by early spring. Now that you’ve got traveling out of your system, your next new year’s resolution can be for your home. CC window screens and patio screens can reduce solar gain as well as the impact of harmful UV rays which can cause skin damage, by 90 percent. To find out more, resolve to contact us today for a free consultation.