Arizona Travelogue
Articles
Travelogues
By Tom Kirvan
The Grand Canyon State features extraordinary beauty
Arizona, located in the southwestern United States, is home to approximately 7.3 million people. The state is known for its mix of cultures and ethnicities, including significant Hispanic, Native American, and Anglo communities. The state also is home to 22 Native American tribes, including the Navajo Nation, the largest in the United States, and the Hopi, Apache, and Tohono O'odham tribes. Arizona's urban areas, particularly Phoenix and Tucson, are vibrant and growing, reflecting the state's appeal as a destination for those seeking warm weather, outdoor recreation, and economic opportunity.
Arizona is renowned for its stunning and diverse landscapes. The state covers an area of 113,990 square miles, making it the sixth largest in the United States. Its geography is defined by arid deserts, dramatic canyons, towering mountains, and sprawling plateaus. The Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is perhaps the most iconic feature of Arizona's landscape. The Sonoran Desert, which covers much of the southern part of the state, is home to unique flora and fauna, including the famous saguaro cactus. Northern Arizona, in contrast, is characterized by cooler climates and dense forests, particularly around Flagstaff and the Mogollon Rim.
The state’s rich history is shaped by the presence of Native American cultures long before European settlers arrived. The ancient Ancestral Puebloans, who built cliff dwellings like those found at Mesa Verde, and the Hohokam, who constructed complex irrigation systems, are just a few of the early inhabitants. Spanish explorers and missionaries arrived in the 16th century, followed by Mexican control after Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821. Arizona became part of the United States in 1848 following the Mexican-American War and was admitted as the 48th state in 1912, the last of the contiguous states to join the Union. Arizona’s history is also marked by the Wild West era, with legendary figures like Geronimo and Wyatt Earp contributing to its colorful past.
Arizona’s economy is varied and robust, driven by several key sectors, including technology, manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. The state has become a hub for the semiconductor industry, with major companies like Intel operating large facilities in the Phoenix area. Aerospace and defense industries also play a significant role, with companies such as Raytheon and Honeywell maintaining a strong presence. Arizona’s agriculture sector is notable for producing cotton, citrus, and cattle. Tourism is another major economic driver, with millions of visitors flocking to the state each year to experience its natural wonders, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Fast Facts
Capital: Phoenix
Population: 7.3 million
Primary Languages: English and Spanish
Largest University: Arizona State University, 73,000 students
Highest mountain peak: Humphreys Peak, 12,633 feet
Must-see Attraction: Grand Canyon
Primerus Member: Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A.
Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A. is a full-service firm located in Phoenix.
Phoenix, the capital and largest city of Arizona, is a sprawling metropolis located in the central part of the state. With a population of more than 1.7 million people, it is the fifth most populous city in the U.S. Phoenix is known for its hot desert climate, with long, scorching summers and mild winters that attract snowbirds from the northern states. Key attractions in Phoenix include the Desert Botanical Garden, the Phoenix Art Museum, and the Heard Museum, which showcases Native American art and culture.
Top 5 Must-See Tourist Destinations
- The Grand Canyon: No visit to Arizona is complete without seeing the Grand Canyon, one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and more than a mile deep. Visitors can explore the South Rim, which offers the most accessible views, or venture to the less crowded but more rugged North Rim. Activities include hiking, mule rides, white-water rafting, and helicopter tours.
- Sedona: Known for its stunning red rock formations and vibrant arts community, Sedona is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike. The town is surrounded by towering sandstone buttes, canyons, and pine forests, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and jeep tours. Sedona is also famous for its energy vortexes, believed to be centers of spiritual energy, drawing visitors interested in wellness and alternative healing practices. The town's thriving arts scene is evident in its many galleries, studios, and cultural festivals.
- Monument Valley: Located on the Arizona-Utah border within the Navajo Nation, Monument Valley is an iconic symbol of the American West. The valley is characterized by towering sandstone mesas, buttes, and spires, which have been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and photographs. Visitors can take guided tours led by Navajo guides to explore the valley's stunning landscapes, learn about Navajo culture, and visit sacred sites.
- Antelope Canyon: Antelope Canyon, located near the town of Page in northern Arizona, is a breathtaking slot canyon known for its narrow passageways, swirling rock formations, and mesmerizing light beams that filter through gaps in the canyon walls. The canyon is divided into two sections, Upper and Lower, both of which are accessible only through guided tours. Photographers from around the world are drawn to Antelope Canyon to capture its otherworldly beauty, making it one of the most photographed sites in the American Southwest.
- Saguaro National Park: Located near Tucson, Saguaro National Park is home to the iconic saguaro cactus, a symbol of the American Southwest. The park is divided into two districts, the Rincon Mountain District to the east and the Tucson Mountain District to the west, both offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and experiencing the unique desert landscape. The park's diverse ecosystems range from desert lowlands to mountainous terrain, providing habitats for a variety of plant and animal species.