Clarkdale

Home to the Verde Canyon Railroad, Clarkdale was laid out in 1914 near the site of the existing smelter built in 1910. It processed ore from nearby Jerome until 1952. Clarkdale was Arizona’s first company town built with modern amenities. The mining and smelter sites, along with the Clarkdale clubhouse, are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. Clarkdale also hosts a number of community events including an art festival and Independence Day celebration.

www.clarkdale.az.us

Cottonwood

Only minutes from the train depot, Cottonwood began as a campground and stopover for travelers to Oak Creek, Beaver Creek and Camp Verde. It was one of three main crossings over the Verde River. Today it is home to a number of attractions including historic downtown Cottonwood with a number of antique stores and Arizona winery tasting centers.

www.cottonwoodchamberaz.org

Tuzigoot National Monument

Eight hundred years ago, this Sinagua pueblo was home to the Indian population which once inhabited this area. The site is comprised of 42 acres, including hiking trails (one wheelchair accessible). Visitors are escorted through the various rooms of the pueblo to view this ancient civilization. Images, etched in stone, help tell the tale of their daily life.

http://www.nps.gov/tuzi/

Blazin’ M Ranch

Chuckwagon & Western Stage Show

The activities and displays at Blazin’ M Ranch will strive to keep you outside but the saloon will call you to sit a spell with your favorite libation. The aroma of dinner will soon turn your attention to the rustic splendor of the dining barn. Gates open at 5 p.m. for shopping, shooting, roping and tractor rides. Dinner bell rings at 6:30 p.m. followed by a Blazin’ M Cowboy stage show at 7:30 p.m..

www.blazinm.com

Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Over 100 species of birds have been identified in the immediate confines of the Park. It also has excellent camping and RV facilities, as well as a lagoon which is stocked with rainbow trout from November through March.

www.azstateparks.com/Parks/DEHO/index.html

Jerome

Nicknamed “The City in the Sky,” Jerome was at one time the most talked-about mining camp in America. This legendary burg is listed on the National Historic Register. Its population went from 15,000 in its heyday to a “ghost town” of under 50 people. The Gold King Mine displays early machinery of the mining era in Jerome.

www.azjerome.com