Prescott eNews

Looking for a great Staycation idea? How about hiking along the 800+ miles of the Arizona Trail, which stretches from Mexico to Utah. It's divided into 43 passages starting at the Huachuca Mountains (21.7 miles) and ending up at Buckskin Mountain (10.8 miles). Here's a Map of the Arizona Trail for you to view.

And on March 30, 2009, President Obama signed the Omnibus Public Lands Bill which includes the National Scenic Trail designation for the Arizona Trail. Governor Jan Brewer issued the following statement:

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

Regarding the Arizona National Scenic Trail Designation

PHOENIX – “With President Obama’s signature on Monday, March 30^th, the nearly completed Arizona Trail received the first National Scenic Trail designation in the United States in 25 years. The 800 mile-long route, spanning from our southern border with Mexico to our northern border with Utah, was born from the vision of Flagstaff school teacher Dale Shewalter and navigates through the State’s most beautiful and scenic backcountry, showcasing our diverse landscapes and wildlife. Through the efforts of several state and federal agencies, elected officials, volunteers and private corporations more than 95 percent of the Trail has already been completed. My dear friend, Congressman Bob Stump, helped secure the first seven mile segment of the Arizona Trail in 1988. This is a great day for all of the citizens of Arizona.

“The Arizona Trail is a testament to what can be accomplished through public-private partnerships. I would like to commend Mr. Shewalter for offering his vision and guidance throughout the years and to Dave Hicks and the Arizona Trail Association for their commitment to completing this project. The time and efforts of the countless volunteers involved are also to be commended. In addition, I wish to thank Arizona’s congressional delegation, in particular Senator Kyl, Senator McCain and Congresswoman Giffords, for their efforts on behalf of this legislation.”

What does this mean to Prescott and our nearby communities? While it isn't local, anything that brings tourism into our state is a good thing. It also serves as a reminder of the many fabulous trails in and around the Prescott area.

John P. Langellier, Ph.D. Director of Sharlot Hall Museum, responded to this question by email, "As a long time professional historian and a member of the board of the Prescott Area Coalition for Tourism I am delighted about the initiative to feature Arizona's trails. From the earliest Native American inhabitants of our state through Spanish Conquistadors, US cavalrymen, cattlemen, mountain men, miners, merchants, stages line operators, Arizona has been crisscrossed by these pathways, which today link us in a very real way to our rich and colorful past. Many of which still are evident in Arizona, and their modern day vestiges connect Prescott Valley, Prescott, Chino Valley, and beyond to the rim of the Grand Canyon to the north and the boarder with Mexico to the south. As such, congratulations are due for taking this highly significant step to preserve our heritage and promote tourism!"

So, if you're looking for an in-state staycation, you might want to take a look at the Arizona Trail. If you want to get ready for such an adventure, take a look at our local trails and hikes. You'll find plenty to keep you busy! Here's one to get you started: Metate Trailhead.