Summer in Arizona: for many, this means thoughts of triple-degree temperatures, cranking down the air conditioning and sweating throughout the next several months. If you live in one of the hotter climates in Arizona, like Phoenix or Tucson, you are probably thinking about how to stay cool, and one of those ideas might be to leave town.
The great news is you don’t have to travel out of state to get to milder temperatures. Did you know Arizona is home to many locations that experience beautiful summers, and even attract visitors throughout the country because of the nice relief they provide from the heat?
If you are burning up this summer, discover Arizona’s cooler side with these four destinations, all within a short drive.
1. The White Mountains
Situated not too far between Greer and Pinetop-Lakeside, The White Mountains’ high elevation offers reprise from the heat, and makes the perfect destination for hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing, horseback riding and swimming. It’s also home to Sunrise Park Resort, which stays open through the summer after the snow has melted and offers activities like downhill summer tubing, nature hikes and horseback tours – all with high temperatures typically in the 70s.
2. Williams
If your travel plans involve the Grand Canyon this year, consider extending your trip and making a stop in nearby Williams, Ariz. A picturesque mountain town with the personality of an authentic Western village, Williams experiences mild summers, allowing visitors to enjoy the town’s outdoor activities like Route 66 Zipline. The zipline ride, at 30 miles per hour at 110 feet in the sky, will allow you to feel a cool breeze in your face as you soar through the air.
3. Lake Havasu
Although the weather tends to be warm in the lakeside town during the summer, Lake Havasu offers a classic summertime experience, from jetskiing and boating to simply taking a dip in the lake. Dubbed as “Arizona’s Playground” and “Jet Ski Capital of the World,” Lake Havasu also features mountainous landscapes that can be seen by boat. You can also visit the famous London Bridge or stroll around the local shops.
4. Arizona’s Luxurious Spas
If spending time in the great outdoors is not your idea of an ideal vacation, consider cooling off with an urban escape to one of many world-class spas. Offering signature treatments such as facials and massages, spas like Mi Amo Spa in Sedona or Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa in Paradise Valley are excellent options to cool off and relax. Between treatments, lounge poolside under the shade with an iced tea in hand.
Beat the heat this summer with more trip ideas from The Arizona Office of Tourism’s site, www.summerinaz.com, which are chalk full of attractions and destinations to escape hot temperatures.
