Explore the magnificent Arizona wilderness
The Arizona Desert is recognized as one of the most unique and stunning biomes in the entire country for good reason. To the North is the Kaibab Forest, home to the Grand Canyon. Towards the middle of the state lies the Tonto Forest, where the Salt River flows. Then towards the South is the Sonoran Desert which is home to some of the most extreme animals on the West coast. Although the Arizona wilderness can be harsh, especially during the summer, it boasts some of the most impressive views not seen anywhere else in the country. It's important to always be prepared when taking on the wild. Before setting out on your next adventure, be sure to prepare by starting with the these 4 basics:
- Pack water. During the summer, temperatures can reach over 115 degrees. Even on a cloudy or cool day, the Arizona sun will be brutal. Arizona weather can also change very quickly, so it's best to pack more than enough to stay hydrated.
- Bring a first aid kit. There are not only dangerous animals such as rattlesnakes and scorpions, but there's also dangerous plants like the Saguaro cactus. Accidents happen, even to experienced hikers, so it's better to be safe than sorry!
- Scout out the hiking area and trail first. There are plenty of online resources, such as AllTrails, that should provide great insight on the conditions of the trail and surrounding area.
- Use the buddy system. As mentioned earlier, the desert is not a place to play around. When venturing out into the wilderness, it's always a great idea to bring a buddy in case of emergencies.
Few places on Earth offer such rewarding views and experiences like the Arizona wilderness. The animals and plantlife are so unique and interesting to learn about. For info on Arizona flora and fauna, check out this helpful Wildlife Guide!