Fall Foliage in Arizona

Many people in the Valley of the Sun rate autumn as their favorite season as we look forward to cooler weather as summer ends! Yet, the valley desert mostly lacks the fall foliage that marks the change of seasons elsewhere. To enjoy vibrant fall colors, you’ll need to plan a road trip. Here are a few of our favorite places to see Arizona’s vibrant fall:

Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood

Dead Horse Ranch in the heart of Cottonwood is a state park sitting on the banks of the Verde River where the cottonwoods, willows and alders turn to yellow and orange along the river. The thin woodlands are also filled with colorful vines, shrubs, leggy grasses, and wildflowers before winter comes.

Dead Horse Ranch has something for everyone. Bring your fishing poles because the lagoons and river are stocked with rainbow trout from fall through spring. Dead Horse Ranch admission is $7 per vehicle.

Sedona

West Fork Trail in Sedona may be the closet place in Arizona to experiencing a New England fall foliage display. West Fork is typically packed on weekends and there can be a wait for a parking space, but it is worth the wait! Parking is $11 per vehicle, cash or check only.

You can enjoy a little more solitude at other Sedona trails. The Huckaby Trail emerges along an elevated ridge, overlooking the multi-hued ribbon of Oak Creek before descending to the stream banks past a colorful collection of vines, shrubs and trees. Secret Canyon Trail leads through a forested ravine and some red rock narrows. Most of the vibrant leaves surround the canyon bottom that often shelter a few pools of water.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior

The Main Trail at Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a 1.5-mile loop beneath a canopy of honey locust, soapberry, canyon hackberry, black walnut and Arizona sycamore. You’ll also pass by Ayer Lake, with additional pathways exploring various desert gardens. The trail then circles Magma Ridge with gnarled and crumpled outcroppings, and curves through a grove of burgundy red Chinese pistachio trees framed by golden hedges of pomegranate.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum admission is $15 ($5 for ages 5-12).

Rim Road in Payson

Fall brings splashes of yellow and orange to the forests of the Mogollon Rim east of Payson. Take a scenic drive along Forest Road 300, also known as the Rim Road, between State Routes 260 and 87 to see vivid colors and panoramic views. Past Woods Canyon, the paved road becomes dirt, but can be safely driven in a sedan.

fall leaves

 

9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs is a way to honor and remember the FDNY firefighters who selflessly gave their lives so that others might live on September 11, 2001. Each participant pays tribute to a FDNY firefighter by climbing the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. The individual tributes not only remember the sacrifice of a FDNY firefighter, but symbolically completes their heroic  journey to save others. Through firefighter and community participation it is possible to ensure that each of the 343 firefighters is honored and that the world knows we will never forget.

The Stair Climbs fund the programs provided by the NFFF to support the families of your local fallen firefighters and the FDNY Counseling Services Unit.

WHERE: Salt River Fields, 7555 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85258

WHEN: Saturday, September 11th  5pm – 9pm

TIMELINE:

Onsite Registration: 5:00pm

Opening Ceremony: 6:30pm

Climb Start: 7:00pm

Climb End: 9:00pm

For additional information, please visit: nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/saltriver

Flagstaff Snowbowl Scenic Gondola Ride

There is more to Snowbowl than winter snow skiing, they also offer activities for the entire family to enjoy in the summer!

Gondola Rides

The new scenic Gondola ride opens to the public this summer for guests to experience incredible views as you travel from 9,500 ft to 11,500 feet at the top of the San Francisco Peaks.

Summer Tubing

Hit the slopes with no snow! Experience the thrill of speeding down the mountain in summer on the tubing hill. The dual lane tubing slope is the perfect track for guests of ages 4+ to race each other down the hill.

Bungee Trampoline

Jump, flip and bounce as you soar above Agassiz Lodge on the bungee trampoline.

Treasure Panning

There’s treasure in the mountains to be found! This hands on experience is a favorite activity for young explorers.

Barrel Rolling

Practice your adventure skills as you balance, footwork, and focus as you spin inside the rotating barrel.

Agassiz Restaurant & Bar

After all that fun, kick back and relax while you enjoy delicious new menu items at Arizona’s highest elevation full-service restaurant inside the historic Agassiz Lodge. The full bar features handcrafted cocktails, wine and local craft beers.

For hours and ticket prices, visit: snowbowl.ski

Beat the Heat Water Bottle Drive

Extreme temperatures affect the most vulnerable in our communities who don’t have refuge or resources.

Help Us Help Others…

Help prevent respite from the heat for homeless veterans, seniors, men, women, youth, and children. Central Arizona Shelter Services distributes over 150,000 bottles of water from May – October.

Chris & Cheryl Park, along with the The Sibbach Team, are hosting a water bottle drive to help the Central Arizona Shelter Services provide heat relief during the summer months.

About Our Partner…

Central Arizona Shelter Services logoCentral Arizona Shelter Services (CASS) is the largest emergency homeless shelter provider in the state, including a Downtown Phoenix single adult shelter and Vista Colina Emergency Family Shelter in Sunnyslope. Each year, CASS serves over 5,500 homeless individuals and families.

Why You Should Donate…

Dehydration can lead to organ failure, seizures, and death. Individuals who are experiencing homelessness are at great risk for heat-related illness. Last year, there were 172 heat-related deaths in Arizona. So join us, and help save a homeless person’s life.

How You Can Help…

Drop off cases of bottled water (preferably standard 16.9-ounce bottles) to the Sibbach Team offices at 14301 N 87th Street, Suite 215, Scottsdale, AZ 85260. We’ll be accepting water donations through the end of August, Monday-Friday from 10am to 4pm.

Don’t Forget To…

  • Check-in on neighbors that might be at risk of dehydration or heat-related health issues.
  • Get your friends, family, or neighbors involved by sharing this page with them.

Not able to make it to our offices?

You can also make a monetary donation by visiting this link. All proceeds go directly to the Central Arizona Shelter Services (CASS) and are tax-deductible. Monetary donations help provide bottled water, sunscreen, flip flops, hats, cool-weather clothing, air conditioning costs at the CASS shelters, financial assistance and eviction prevention for their clients, and other summer-related expenses.

Make a Monetary Donation

One water bottle makes a BIG difference.

beat the heat water drive

4th of July Celebrations 2021

Let’s get ready to celebrate the Red, White and Blue in Greater Phoenix! Classic Fourth of July gatherings with food trucks, fireworks, and air shows are back for 2021! Check out our list of fun things to do for the Fourth of July in the Valley!

Celebrate America 2021 – Lake Pleasant Fireworks Show

Located on the southeastern shores of Lake Pleasant, conveniently adjacent to the Phoenix Metro area, Pleasant Harbor hosts this annual fireworks show, as well as food trucks, free kids activities, including water slides, bounce houses and live music. Festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. with fireworks at 9:00 p.m. and activities running through 10:30 p.m.

Pleasant Harbor Marina (Southeastern Shore of Lake Pleasant) – 8708 W. Harbor Blvd., Peoria

4th of July Fireworks at Arizona Grand Resort & Spa

Enjoy a brilliant 15-minute fireworks show from Reserved Fire Pits, Reserved Patio Seating, the Oasis Water Park, or from the patio of your guaranteed view suite, available exclusively to resort guests. The Fireworks show will be accompanied by a DJ and Willie’s Taco Truck will be offering delicious eats.

Arizona Grand Resort & Spa – 8000 S. Arizona Grand Parkway, Phoenix

Scottsdale 4th of July Celebration at Westworld

This Scottsdale patriotic celebration features food, fun, and live entertainment and delivers a fireworks show twice the size as 2020, in fact now one of Arizona’s largest fireworks displays. There are three ways to celebrate: VIP Backyard Barbecue ($41 adults, $21 children; Premier Polo Field Parking ($41 per carload); and General Admission Parking ($26 per carload). VIP Backyard Barbecue ticketholders will enjoy free parking, access to the air-conditioned North Hall featuring tables, a buffet-style barbecue, live music by Some Like it Yacht, Brock Pro Patriots Quartet, and Grant Brothers Country Music Duo. For the youngsters, fun activities such as a “snow day in July” with a giant snow slide, face painters, balloon artists, and more are in store. Those with Premier Polo Field Parking tickets can BYOP (bring your own party), watching fireworks in a larger area surrounding their vehicle with room for tailgating. Those with General Admission Parking can also BYOP and view the fireworks from reserved lots north of the North Hall.

WestWorld of Scottsdale – 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale

A Star-Spangled 4th of July Celebration

Join Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch for the weekend to celebrate our nation’s birthday, complete with the resort’s signature Red, White and Boom Fireworks Extravaganza on Sunday, July 4.  During the day guests can splash into a 2.5 acre water playground with 10 pools, zip down a 30’ high-speed waterslide or hit the sandy beach. The beachside Fun Zone features a putting green, ping-pong, giant chess and giant Connect Four. There are poolside cabanas and daybeds for relaxing and H2Oasis, the poolside restaurant, to fuel and recharge. Continue the fun with a cornhole tournament, watermelon eating contest, slide races, themed crafts and more. And then after dark, enjoy the beauty and tradition of the annual fireworks display.

Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch – 7500 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale

fireworks

McCormick-Stillman Park Summer Concert Series 2021

Rock and roll at the Railroad Park is back on track for Summer 2021! Enjoy concerts every Sunday evening with a variety of local bands. Recently recognized as one of the best live music venues in Arizona by Best of American Towns, Sundays at The Railroad Park are the place to be in Scottsdale this summer. With Classic Rock, Retro ’80s, Country, Rhythm and Blues and Retro ’90s, there is a little something for everyone. Bring a blanket or chair and relax in the park. Pack a picnic or enjoy something tasteful from one of the food trucks that will be onsite.

Due to COVID-19 and public health recommendations, the structure of this year’s event is changed to provide a safe and socially distanced environment. The Summer Concerts may look different than it has in previous years, but is intend to create a safe and memorable experience for you and your family. All guests are asked to understand and adhere to all public health protocols.

  • The event will feature a limited capacity of 750 people.
  • 120 8’x8′  marked spaces all distanced 6′ apart that can fit up to 6 people.
  • You are asked to remain within your space during the concert unless you are using the restrooms or purchasing food.
  • Masks will be required for anyone six years and older.
  • Multiple hand sanitizing stations will be available at the rides and throughout the event area.
  • All areas and attractions with potential lines will have social distancing stickers in place.

Gates will open at 5 pm. Wristbands will be given to all attendees. The event area will only be accessible to those who have purchased tickets for that specific concert.

Concert Schedule: 

  • May 30 | Mogollon
  • June 6| Rock Lobster
  • June 13 | People Who Could Fly
  • June 20 | Abba Fab
  • June 27 | Piano Men: Generations
  • July 4 | The JJ’s Band
MCCORMICK-STILLMAN RAILROAD PARK
7301 E. Indian Bend Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
ADMISSION
$30 – 8×8 Space. Includes admission for up to 6 people.  Beer & Wine Permit-$15 (no glass bottles please). For additional information, visit:www.therailroadpark.com
drums

Summer Nights at the Royal Palms Resort

As the sun sets in the desert, the nighttime energy comes alive at the Royal Palms Resort in Phoenix’s Arcadia neighborhood. Mark your calendars for a themed experience all summer long. Join us on the last Friday of the month, May-August, for an evening filled with specialized menu creations and live music to complete the vibes.

Friday, May 28 – Latin Night

6:30 pm Doors Open

7:30 pm – 10:00 pm Live Music from La Dignidad

Friday, June 25 – Reggae Summer Nights

6:30 pm Doors Open

7:30 pm – 10:00 pm Live Music from Hourglass Cats

Friday, July 30 – Blues Brews & BBQ

6:30 pm Doors Open

7:30 pm – 10:00 pm Live Music from The Sugar Thieves

Friday, August 27 – Jazz Under the Stars

6:00 pm Doors Open

7:00 pm – 9:30 pm Live Music from House of Stairs

Admission is $40 per person, inclusive of live music and tapas. No reservations required, tickets are sold at the door the night of each event. Specialty beverages will be available for purchase.

cello

Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market

junk in the trunk vintage marketJunk in the Trunk Vintage Market returns in 2021 with more than 150 vintage curators and handmade artisans from across the country to provide over 120,000 square feet of shopping enjoyment!  The Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market maintains its reputation for featuring quality vendors selling unique items and inspiring design, the market continues to be a popular attraction for vintage enthusiasts across the Southwest.

In addition to the inspiring booths full of all things chippy, rusty, vintage and handmade, Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market will also feature live music, delicious food, drinks, photo-ops, and unlimited design inspirations.

LOCATION: WestWorld of Scottsdale,  16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale

DATES: April 23rd-25th, 2021

TICKETS: Visit JunkInTheTrunkVintageMarket.com for tickets and opening times

Need a new home for all your new treasures? Call us today to find your next dream home!  Chris 480-754-9077 & Cheryl 480-754-9477

Scottsdale Farmers Market

The Scottsdale Farmers Market in Old Town Scottsdale features more than 100 local growers and specialty food producers. Be ready to find a wide variety of organic and pesticide-free produce, seasonal specialties such as cider and apples, flowers, natural pork, beef, fish, free-range eggs from Arizona growers. You’ll also find cheese, freshly baked artisan breads, jams, tamales, and so much more.

The market is family-friendly and well-mannered pets are welcome! 

The weekly farmers market is located on Brown Ave. between 1st and 2nd streets (right across from The Mission Restaurant). Parking is free!

DETAILS:

Saturdays from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm through May

3806 N. Brown Ave. Scottsdale, AZ 85251

farmers market

Hot Air Ballooning Over the Valley

Springtime is here and hot air balloon flights in Phoenix are at their best!  Hot air balloon rides are an incredible way to see the beauty of the desert. Is hot air ballooning on your Arizona bucket list? Check out these local Arizona hot air balloon experts to book your flight today!

www.apexballoons.com

www.firebirdballoons.com

www.2flyus.com

If you see your dream home while you’re floating in the sky, give us a call once you’re back on the ground! Chris 480-754-9077 & Cheryl 480-754-9477

hot air balloon