Arizona is famous for its windswept desert landscapes, iconic saguaro cacti reaching for the sky, and sparkling amber sunsets. While the lower elevations of the state are warmed by the summer sun, the cool mountainous regions of the state offer equally captivating sights and experiences. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy these destinations.

“After spending a few days by the pool and enjoying the sunshine in the canyon, the next destination for summer vacation is exploring cool, high-altitude areas and parks,” said Lisa Urias, Director of Arizona Tourism. .” “Spending time among the Ponderosa pines while exploring the mountains of Arizona in the 70s and 80s is also a great way to rejuvenate and enjoy our beautiful state.”

Here are some tips to help residents and travelers answer the call to Arizona’s majestic mountain retreat.

Northern Arizona – Williams

Elevation: 6,765 feet

Average summer temperature: 83 degrees

Halfway between Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon, the small-town charm of Williams evokes a lingering aftertaste. This gateway to the Grand Canyon boasts a vibrant and historic downtown district, numerous accommodations and dining options, and access to outdoor recreation.

Housed in a 1901 depot, the Williams Kaibab National Forest Visitor Center is a great place to start your trip and learn about the natural and human history of the area. Now, explore the rest of this town and you’ll find neon signs, soda fountains, and restaurants serving America’s staples of beef and potatoes in all their glory. This Arizona mountain town is a great place to snap some Americana relic photos and shop for cowboy leather.

Williams is also a boarding point for the Grand Canyon Railroad. The train ride takes approximately 2 hours and takes you to the canyon’s South Rim. Class options abound, including the Observation Dome and the budget-friendly Pullman class.

Southeast Arizona – Mount Graham and Lake Roper

Roper Lake Elevation: 3,000 feet

Average summer temperature: 98 degrees

Mount Graham Elevation: 10,724 feet

Average summer temperature: 66 degrees

Mount Graham towers over 10,700 feet above sea level as the pinnacle of the Pinareño Mountains in southern Arizona near Safford. Home to the Mount Graham International Observatory, it is perhaps best known as a hot spot for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts. The ideal way to immerse yourself in the Mount Graham experience is to take a bus tour that begins at Eastern Arizona University’s Discovery Park his campus visitor center. The tour includes a scenic drive to Mount Graham, lunch near the summit, and a guided tour of the observatory.

A little warmer than the summit of Mount Graham, staying in one of eight air-conditioned cabins in nearby Roper Lake State Park is a great way to end the trip. Plus, being steps from the water makes it a great base for exploring the area.

Northern Arizona – Prescott Mountains

Elevation: 5,367 feet

Average summer temperature: 88 Every time

Nestled at an elevation of 5,200 feet above sea level surrounded by the largest ponderosa pine forest in the United States, Prescott’s breathtaking landscape is complete with granite mountains, lakes, streams and rolling meadows. With three lakes to choose from, this Arizona mountain town has several options for paddling on the water. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards help tourists get outside and explore. Plan your ride around the full moon and enjoy the sparkling waters, tranquil surroundings and night views.

Outside the lake, activities include horseback riding, golfing, hiking, mountain biking, shopping, and visiting local breweries and restaurants.

Once the state capital, the city of Prescott is home to the world-famous Whiskey Row, numerous historic buildings and a wealth of Western history, best represented by the “oldest rodeo in the world.”

Northeast Arizona – Show Low & Fool Hollow Lakes

Elevation: 6,349 feet

Average summer temperature: 86 degrees

Show Low, the largest city in the White Mountains, got its name from a card game played between two ranchers who had to decide who would stay and who would leave was not large enough). Whoever manages to “look low” will win. The town’s main street is named ‘The Deuce of Clubs’, the winning card. The Show Low Historical Museum is a great place to start your trip, with its collection of quirky local artifacts such as quilts, military memorabilia, blacksmithing tools and barber’s tools.

For a cooler place in the summer, Show Low is also home to Fool Hollow Lake State Park. At the lake’s edge, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards can be rented from J&T’s Wildlife Outdoors, a licensed operator near the eastern boat launch. Rentals are available on the spot, but reservations are recommended. Watercraft rentals are seasonal and currently only available during the summer months.

Southern Arizona – Chiricahua National Monument and Coronado National Forest

Elevation: 5,134 feet to 7,310 feet

Average summer temperature: 87 degrees

Another summer retreat in southern Arizona is the Coronado National Forest. Free distributed camping is available along Pinery Canyon Road. Some spots are right next to Pinery Creek, but it’s not always running, so it’s a good idea to bring plenty of water. Open fires are permitted, but be sure to check your local fire regulations as your area may have a fire ban year-round.

For those looking for a more traditional camping experience next to one of Arizona’s most scenic areas, Chiricahua National Monument, Bonita Canyon Campground in nearby Chiricahua National Monument (pictured at top of page) has 25 developed sites.

Arizona’s mountain towns offer a cool, breezy getaway perfect for summer fun and memories. For more ideas, visit: Visit www.Arizona.com.