Get out your calendars and open your maps! These 30 activities are sure to help you boost your confidence this summer. Experience new things and spend time creating unforgettable memories with your teens and family. Pick one or pick many from the list below.
#1 Kartchner Caverns
These caverns in Tucson help you discover the role that water plays in creating the caverns. You will see the discoverers' original trail, delicate formations, and “Kubla Khan,” the largest column formation in Arizona. Book a tour for $13-$23. Camping sites are available close by if you want to make extra memories.
#2 Mt. Lemmon
Tucson beauty is found traveling to Mt. Lemmon. The winding road up the mountain provides beautiful scenery and cooler weather. One of my personal favorite camping sites there is the Rose Canyon Campground. While out and about, book a scenic ski lift ride for an impressive perspective of the mountain, and for your life! Rides range from $12-$15.
#3 Biosphere 2
If you are craving some indoorsy recreation in Tucson, be sure to hit the Biosphere 2 science museum. This 3 acre research facility was designed to help our understanding of what it would be like to live on another planet. For $15- $25, book a 75 minute walking tour.
#4 Titan Missile Museum
Want to go underground to a missile silo? (it’s super cool!) Then South of Tucson is the place for you to experience one of a kind titan missile museum. See the last of the now decommissioned titan missile silos from the cold war. Tours are required and cost $12-$16.50 for a 45 minute tour.
#5 Aravaipa Canyon
Located in SE Arizona, this land/water hike will fill your camera roll. Strap on your backpacks with overnight gear to make this 9.6 mile out and back/moderately challenging hike enjoyable. You will walk in and out of water on your path so water shoes are a must. My personal preference are Keen closed-toe water shoes. Permits are required.
#6 City Water Parks
Located in Chandler are two of my top picks: Nozomi & Mesquite Groves Aquatic Centers. With the unbeatable price of $1 for children and $2.25 for adults, you can spend the day reducing anxiety, tanning, swimming, and sliding. Some features include a zero depth entry, 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards, 25 yard eight lane, 112 ft. figure eight water slide, separate diving tank, shade ramadas, and a lazy river. Pack some snacks to make it a long day of play.
#7 Sunrise Mountain Pool
This is the closest public pool to Walk Forward Coaching, so of course it is on the favorite, must-visit list! Open May 27-August 6 visit this pool M-F 12pm-3pm, 7:30pm-9;00pm, Saturday 12-5 with a season pass $30 per person or $100 for your family. Bring the family to enjoy the diving board, slide and lap pool. If you are sensitive to the sun or heat, take advantage of their night hours to recreate or exercise in cooler temps.
#8 Rio Vista Recreation Center
This hidden Peoria gem has indoor racquetball courts, an indoor climbing wall, indoor basketball and volleyball courts and an adventure room! The adventure room has games, ping pong tables, shuffleboard and a pinball machine. Don’t have racquets or balls? No problem! Ask to borrow them from the front desk - gratis! The rec center is located right on a canal trail/bike path. On cooler days, arrive on two wheels accessible from many points. My preference is across from the QT on 83rd avenue and Deer Valley which makes for a 5 mile ride to Rio Vista.
#9 Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant is a dream for boaters, paddleboarders, kayakers, and triathletes in training! Pull right up to a lakeside spot and do some tailgating. Stay overnight in one of their campsites (RV with AC recommended for summer months). Rent a paddleboard/kayak for $20/hour. You may even experience a wild donkey sighting! The wild donkeys are crafty at gaining access to anything edible so keep your food locked in your car.. After your day of play, visit Dillons restaurant for the best burnt ends you will ever have.
#10 Slide Rock
Adventure seekers from all over the world travel to see Sedona’s beautiful red rocks. A family favorite is Slide Rock. The rock formations create hours of natural water play. Due to its popularity, visit early or during a week-day. A picnic lunch and heavy duty bathing suit are must-haves. Budget for a park entrance fee of $20-$30/vehicle.
#11 Trout Pond
Sedona’s trout farm holds some of my favorite childhood memories! After many “skunked” fishing trips with my dad, he discovered this gem of a fishing pond where you are guaranteed to catch a fish and leave with a very happy child. This peaceful pond nestled in Sedona sells fish food for a quarter and rents fishing poles with bait. For an extra fee, they will prep your freshly caught trout to grill onsite on their BBQs (delish)! Average cost per fish is about $30. My family makes it a tradition to stop at the candy store in Sedona after our successful day of fishing.
#12 Devil’s Bridge
If you have ever googled “Sedona” I am almost certain you have seen a picture of Devil’s Bridge. Instagrammers and families from all over the world have trekked this four mile round-trip trail for a picture on the bridge. It is made of natural sandstone, offering stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations, and a confidence boost!
#13 Fossil Creek
Near Pine, this beautiful hike and swimming hole makes for a wonderful family fun outing. Wear or pack your bathing suit to cool off and splash in the fresh creek water. Plan ahead, as you will need a $6 parking lot permit to reach Fossil Creek from April to October. As this is temporarily closed for road construction till June, plan this for the end of your summer.
The hike is approximately 2.6 miles out and back.
#14 Horton Creek
Located just outside of Payson you will find the trailhead for an 8.6 mile round trip adventure!
There is open and free camping along the trail with refreshing water to play in. The trail is well marked and a favorite night hike for my family. At the end, you will find a beautiful waterfall! Once you visit this destination, you will understand why AllTrails gave it a rating of 4.7 stars.
#15 Tonto Natural Bridge
While in Payson, visit the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. With only a 1.4 mile round trip hike needed to visit this beauty, this hike is a welcome adventure for people of all ages. The parking lot is a comfortable place for a picnic lunch and is nestled in the pines for cool weather. $4-$7 per person for entrance will get you access to a great day of play.
#16 Lava Tubes
Just north of Flagstaff is the place to discover ancient lava tubes! This opportunity offers a fascinating glimpse into Arizona's geological history with a landscape of twisted lava formations and deep underground caves. Entrance is free and be sure to wear a headlight and warm clothes for your 1.5 mile round trip trek in the cave, where it stays roughly 42 degrees year round.
#17 Hart Prairie Loop
Flagstaff is home of the Hart Prairie Loop. This place is a magical place in nature for me - not only because my husband proposed to me at the peak on our mountain bikes, but because we have shared the beauty of this trail on two wheels with countless friends. Depending on where you drop your wheels, this trail is a 7-14 mile long ride near Sunrise Ski Resort. The views pedaling through the aspen trees are unforgettable as they wind through lush forests, sprawling meadows and stunning mountain vistas.
#18 Flagstaff Extreme
Flagstaff’s tall pines hold this totally extreme obstacle course. Once harnessed up for safety, you will adventure in 1-5 courses that will keep you on your toes (and up very high!). With 80 different obstacles, this is a dream for competitive and physically determined participants. At $60 per person for the course, you will not finish this course unfulfilled.
#19 Mt Humphreys
If you have ever headed north on 1-17 towards Flagstaff and wondered what the name of that gorgeous, tall mountain is - you are looking at Mount Humphreys! It is the highest point in Arizona, with an elevation over 12,000 feet. The hike to the summit is challenging, but the stunning views of the surrounding forests and mountains are worth it. It is a 10 mile round trip trek. Be sure to check the mountain weather before you start this hike as it can be dangerous to summit during any kind of storm.
#20 Horseback Riding
Saddle up near Mormon Lake near Flagstaff for a horse ride in the deep pines. AZ High Mountain Trail Rides offers rides for all levels or riding. This time in nature is sure to inspire you and your teen. The 90 minute trail ride and fresh air is a quick ticket to reduce anxiety and build confidence. Beginning on May 1, they offer wagon rides for $25 or trail rides for $85. Throw your bathing suits in the car for this one, because after your ride, you will pass Lake Mary - a perfect swimming hole to cool down.
#21 Sunset Crater Volcano
Road tripping east of Flagstaff, Sunset Crater is the perfect stop to get out and move your legs strolling through their visitors center. This crater is the most recent volcanic eruption in AZ, which took place about 1000 years ago. After the Grand Canyon, this is among the top visited sites in AZ. Entrance is $25 per vehicle.
#22 Lockett Meadow
Just east of Flagstaff is the spot for those seeking an authentic camping experience in a beautiful alpine meadow. The views of the aspens are breathtaking and you will find yourself surrounded by mountains including a view of the San Francisco Peaks. Only accessible by hiking at the moment, the 6 miles on foot allows for a lot of time connecting with your creator, yourself, and your family.
#23 Bearizona
Williams is the host of this bear park in AZ. This drive-through wildlife park allows you to get up close and personal with a variety of North American wildlife, including bears, wolves, and bison. After your drive-through bear encounters, visit the bird encounters and petting zoo. Allow for some extra time to grab a treat and visit the gift shop. $25-$35 per person is what you will pay for this unique experience.
#24 Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is the perfect escape out to town to gain some perspective on life. Upon arrival, take some long deep breaths as you marvel at this one of only seven natural wonders of the world! Arriving from the south rim, there are several day hikes to experience and even hotels available near the trail to extend your stay. Plan on a park entrance is $35 per vehicle. Or better yet, purchase an annual US National Parks Pass for $80 and explore National Parks across the country for a year!
#25 Havasupai Falls
West of the Grand Canyon is the Havasupai Indian Reservation with the most spectacular views of waterfalls in AZ accessible only by foot or helicopter. This 10-mile hike that takes you through stunning red rock canyons and ends at the Havasu Falls lies breathtaking waterfalls that cascades into a crystal-clear blue pool.The tribe requires you to pay for a minimum three nights at $100/night during the week, or $125/night on weekends regardless of how many nights you actually stay (worth it!). Hike in and carry your pack or pay for a donkey to transport it. Hike out or end your trip to the falls with a helicopter ride out. For permits, create an account on www.havasupaireservations.com and check daily for canceled reservations you can pick up.
#26 Willow Beach
The Arizona/Nevada border is where you will find natural hot springs and cliffs to jump! This canoe trip leaves from the Hoover Dam. I’ve always used Desert Adventures as the outfitter and had great service. Load up your canoe with a buddy, dry bags, and a lot of food and gear to camp at Willow Beach on the Colorado River along your paddling route! I added my all-time favorite family photo taken several years ago at the beginning of this family adventure. It reminds me to keep giving my kids experiences where they don’t get cell signals. It pays off every time - they loved this trip!
#27 Antelope Canyon
Outside of Page is upper and lower Antelope Canyon. Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon shaped by millions of years of water and erosion. It is an easy stroll suitable for most ages. If you Google “Antelope Canyon” you may wonder if the photos are real or photoshopped. They are real! This canyon is unique at every twist and turn and hosts remarkable views from every direction. Tours are a must and cost about $50-$85 per person.
#28 Lake Powell
The iconic place in Page is Lake Powell. Powell is my favorite place in the whole entire world!! With 2000 miles of coastline, Powell is THE place for boating, fishing, water sports, sightseeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, camping and house boating. Though hot in the summer, you can camp in a tent or snatch a reservation at the hotel there. If you find yourself without water toys to explore, book a tour so you don’t miss out.
#29 Horseshoe Bend
Near Page is Horseshoe Bend, a unique view of the Colorado River as it winds between Lake Powell and Lake Mead. Passing the entrance, you will see the parking lot full but the actual bend viewing is a ¾ mile walk to the overlook. It is a must-see or must-do experience. If you are the type that prefers the must-do experience, book a kayak trip to get the view and fresh Colorado River air down in the bend. Kayak rental and backhaul service available, $105 per person
#30 Monument Valley
The Arizona/Utah Border will lead you to Monument Valley! This is a scenic experience. If you have teens in the car for this roadtrip, they will definitely want this insta worthy shot. The sandstone views are spectacular. It is free to drive past and view from the road, but plan on $8 per person entrance fee in the park.
Did anything on that list excite you? Contact me if you have questions. New experiences help reduce anxiety and build confidence - go get ‘em! sharon@walkforwardcoaching.com
If you are interested in joining me for an experience, follow my Facebook page @ Walk Forward Coaching and join my email list at www.walkforwardcoaching.com
Want me to lead your group on one of these adventures? Let me know!
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