Best of Phoenix - Weekend Getaways

Posted by Barb Rechtzigel @BRechtzigel, May 4, 2017

Here's a shout out to Mayo employees in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area and beyond. Share your favorite get-away place, or where you recommend out-of-towners go when they ask for your advice. Arizona is a beautiful state and activities and hot spots abound for those seeking to enjoy all that you have to offer. If you are new to the Phoenix/Scottsdale area, share what your interests and activities are. Chances are, someone familiar to the area has got you covered!

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the New Employee Connections group.

Last November my family had the best weekend north of Phoenix... drove through Sedoma and took a quick hike (didn't really feel the vortex though), a hour at the Meteor Crater site, then Grand Canyon (we took the train, very fun, amazing views). Two days, jammed packed, but excellent!

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@cathyfraser

Last November my family had the best weekend north of Phoenix... drove through Sedoma and took a quick hike (didn't really feel the vortex though), a hour at the Meteor Crater site, then Grand Canyon (we took the train, very fun, amazing views). Two days, jammed packed, but excellent!

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This is definitely on my bucket list. It sounds amazing!

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I recommend Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bent. Both places are 10 minutes from each other and about 4 hours north of Phoenix but it is worth the drive - avoid going in the middle of the summer as it is overcrowded. Great for a weekend getaway!

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Adding to the outdoor list -- Echo Canyon Trail -- though I just previewed it while there on a short trip.
Who's completed the hike?

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@sunnihemingsen

Adding to the outdoor list -- Echo Canyon Trail -- though I just previewed it while there on a short trip.
Who's completed the hike?

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I have! Echo Canyon Trail is Camelback Mountain - a fairly well-known mountain in Phoenix. It does require the use of a handrail to climb a rock face incline and there is a bit of a rock scramble at the top. Take your time and bring water and the average person can climb the mountain with no problem. Be aware that parking is limited so expect to wait for a spot or park further away and walk.

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Some other fun trips in Phoenix:
Within 2 hours north:
1. Flagstaff - Kachina Trail (hiking), Mt. Humphrey's (tallest point in AZ), Snowbowl (scenic ski lift during nice months, skiing in winter)

2. Sedona - West Fork Trail (best hiking in fall), Oak Creek Canyon, wineries, art, charming downtown strip, Slide Rock (natural waterslide - summer only), Tlaquepaque (art/shops)

3. Swimming holes/hikes: Fossil Creek (need permit), West Clear Creek (4 mile hike + swimming hole)

Within 3 hours south:
1. Tucson - Sonoran Desert Museum, Mt. Lemon (hiking)

2. Tombstone - day trip to see the town, book a local tour guide

3. Bisbee - small town with history, shops, art, take an evening ghost walk (no ghosts, just history) - very interesting town

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@sunnihemingsen

Adding to the outdoor list -- Echo Canyon Trail -- though I just previewed it while there on a short trip.
Who's completed the hike?

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Awesome! Thanks @toffenbacher

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@sunnihemingsen

Adding to the outdoor list -- Echo Canyon Trail -- though I just previewed it while there on a short trip.
Who's completed the hike?

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Highly recommend the camelback mountain hike - did it last weekend with family. We only made it part of the way, but terrific views!

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AZ fall weekend included UTV rides at Arizona Outdoor Fun - a little pricey, but three hours of family time riding the desert with a guide. We even saw rattlesnakes!

Also check out Phoenix Zoo. Buy our tickets online (we did it in the parking lot - they accept the upc from a phone) and save $s.

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The Musical Instrument Museum is fabulous if you love sound, musical history, or learning other cultures! Plan at least 4 hours of sound filled fun... young children may not be as impressed as older children.

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