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Not for cowards: the skywalk over the western part of the Grand Canyon! Those who dare are rewarded with a magnificent view over the world’s most famous canyon.
At a height of 1,200 m this construction of glass and steal looms over the gorge’s edge. This highest free-hovering observation deck is open since March 2007, and already one of the most popular tourist destinations in the USA.
For those that rather stay on solid ground, we advise to explore North Arizona’s 445 kilometer long Grand Canyon on horse or foot. Hikes of one or more days take the visitors deep into a wonderful bizarre landscape and to the roots of the American continent. Some parts of the more remote side arms of the canyon are still inhabited by Indians. However, beware: the various tours offered are only for somewhat more experienced and fit hikers. All others are advised to undertake the steep descent and climbs by mule or horse. Another possibility is to drive around some parts of the canyon’s edge by car. Early birds can enjoy breathtaking sunrises between 5 and 8 AM, depending on the season. Sunsets – between 5 and 8 PM- are at least as beautiful.
However, Arizona has many more to offer in terms of outdoor activities. This western state contains more than 20 National Parks, Monuments and Nature Reserves. In the far North, bordering the State of Utah, the Antelope Canyon draws photographers from all over the world. Here, the gorge’s red cliffs reflect the sunlight in a most spectacular way throughout the day. The city of Page in the West harbours Arizona’s second largest artificial reservoir behind a bank in the Colorado River; Lake Powell with its beige-white beaches is a center of attraction for water-sports fans, beach-, and sun lovers.
Also in the North, on the border with Utah lies Monument Valley. This region is known from many westerns with its bizarre, up to 300 meter high rock formations. This is considered to reflect the typical Wild-West atmosphere and is furthermore home of the Navajo Indians.
120 Kilometer south of Page one finds one of the most popular ski resorts in the USA; In Flagstaff temperatures in winter regularly drop to a freezing –10°C. In the rest of the state the temperatures usually sink below zero in winter, although in summer they may easily rise to above 40°C. Around Flagstaff one can also get a taste of the legendary Route 66. Arizona harbours the longest stretch of this famous road, which connects Chicago in the Northeast with Los Angeles in the West since 1926. This tour is not only an impressive experience for car fans.
The state´s capitol is situated right in the center; Phoenix is regarded as the best organised city in the world, and manages to connect its centuries-old history with modern times in an extraordinary way. Museums, theatres, and operas, restaurants, and shops of world-famous designers and historical city parts give the city its cheerful true colours. Just North of the city lies the Sonora Desert, home of the gigantic Saguaro Cactus. Like in many other parts of Arizona, travellers can taste the real cowboy life including cattle drives, horse rides and camp fires.
South of Phoenix one can find the Western-city of Tucson following the Interstate 10. In this city you won´t have to miss any tourist feature: just follow the turquoise-coloured marks on the streets. In Old Tucson’s film studios you can watch famous Westerns. In addition, lovers can marry here in Western style.
Cowboys and Indians, deep canyons, and seamless endless streets: discover the Wild West during an Arizona roundtrip. |
