Exploring Northern Arizona's National Parks
Exploring Northern Arizona's Top National Parks with Your Symmetrical AWD Subaru
Northern Arizona is a treasure trove of natural wonders, offering some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States. With a symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) Subaru, you can explore these parks with confidence, knowing your vehicle is equipped to handle diverse terrains. Here’s a guide to the top national parks in Northern Arizona and the activities you can enjoy with your trusty Subaru.
1. Grand Canyon National Park
Overview:The Grand Canyon is arguably the most famous national park in the United States. Its immense size and intricate landscape offer a visual feast of layered red rock formations that date back millions of years.
Activities:
Scenic Drives: The South Rim offers several scenic drives, including Desert View Drive, which provides numerous overlooks where you can park your Subaru and take in the stunning views.
Hiking: Trails like the Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail offer varying levels of difficulty, from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Camping: Mather Campground and Desert View Campground are great spots to set up camp. Your Subaru’s AWD capabilities will come in handy on the sometimes rugged access roads.
2. Petrified Forest National Park
Overview:This park is known for its fossilized trees that date back to the Late Triassic period. The colorful badlands of the Painted Desert add to the park’s unique beauty.
Activities:
Off-Roading: The park has several off-road trails where your Subaru can shine. The Blue Mesa Scenic Road is a must-drive.
Hiking: Explore the Crystal Forest Trail and the Giant Logs Trail to see some of the largest and most colorful petrified logs.
Photography: The vibrant colors of the Painted Desert are perfect for photography enthusiasts.
3. Walnut Canyon National Monument
Overview: Located near Flagstaff, Walnut Canyon is famous for its well-preserved cliff dwellings that were once home to the Sinagua people.
Activities:
Hiking:The Island Trail offers a close-up view of the cliff dwellings, while the Rim Trail provides panoramic views of the canyon.
Wildlife Viewing Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including mule deer and various bird species.
Picnicking: There are several picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
4.Wupatki National Monument
Overview: This monument features ancient pueblos that provide a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloan people.
Activities:
Driving Tours:The 34-mile loop road that connects Wupatki and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monuments is perfect for a scenic drive in your Subaru.
Hiking: Short trails lead to various pueblos, including the impressive Wupatki Pueblo.
Stargazing: The remote location makes it an excellent spot for stargazing. Bring a telescope and enjoy the night sky.
5. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Overview: This park features a cinder cone volcano that erupted roughly 900 years ago, creating a unique landscape of lava flows and cinder fields.
Activities
Hiking: The Lava Flow Trail offers an easy hike through the volcanic landscape. For a more challenging hike, try the Lenox Crater Trail.
Driving: The loop road that connects to Wupatki National Monument offers stunning views of the volcanic terrain.
Photography: The contrast between the black lava rocks and the surrounding forest makes for striking photographs.
Tips for exploring with your AWD Subaru
1. Car Camping: Transform your Subaru into a cozy camper. Fold down the back seats, lay out a sleeping pad, and you have a comfortable place to sleep. This is perfect for parks like the Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest, where campgrounds are available.
2. Off-Road Adventures: Take advantage of your Subaru’s AWD capabilities on off-road trails. Always check the park’s regulations and trail conditions before heading out. Petrified Forest and the loop road between Wupatki and Sunset Crater are great places to test your vehicle’s capabilities.
3. Pack Smart: Bring essential gear like a portable stove, camping chairs, and a cooler. This allows you to cook meals and enjoy picnics in scenic spots. Don’t forget extra water, especially in the desert parks.
4. Respect the Environment: Always follow Leave No Trace principles. Stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, and respect wildlife. This ensures that these beautiful parks remain pristine for future visitors.
5. Plan for Weather: Northern Arizona’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers for varying temperatures and be prepared for sudden changes in weather, especially at higher elevations like the Grand Canyon.
Conclusion
Northern Arizona’s national parks offer a diverse range of landscapes and activities that are perfect for exploring with an AWD Subaru. From the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon to the ancient pueblos of Wupatki, each park provides unique experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your gear, hit the road, and embark on an adventure through some of the most stunning natural wonders in the United States.
What’s your favorite national park in Northern Arizona? Share your experiences and tips on our social media profiles Facebook or Instagram.
