Arizona

Our 48^th state, Arizona, joined the Union February 14, 1912. For anyone itching to explore a land rich in history from the old west to dinosaurs to a view back in time millions of years ago, head to Arizona. It's there where an adventure waits around every corner.

Home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, The Grand Canyon, will tantalize your desire for a memorable experience in more ways than one. Strap on your best backpack and step into some of the most beautiful scenery around. Beginners and serious backpackers need to educate themselves to any possible fees required for overnight trips and be aware of dangers that may be encountered from weather conditions, animals that you can expect to find lurking off the trail and the general severity or ease of your chosen path. Beginner trails and trails geared for hardier hikers are offered. Be sure to learn the rules and regulations that are enforced and meant to protect you, the wildlife and the land. Once you've done the homework and have proper equipment, prepare for clear mountain streams, gorgeous waterfalls and forests of aspen, spruce, ponderosa pines and firs. You'll fine trails that overlook the Grand Canyon for a spectacular view of the Colorado River as it ribbons through the canyon on its way to the Gulf of California. The Grand Canyon is one of the best places on earth for a geology lesson in full view to even the amateur eye. Go back millions of years in time through the earth's evolution as wind, water, plate movements and even global warming molded the Grand Canyon into the spectacular sight we enjoy today.

Check out the white water rafting on the Colorado River, but be prepared for a wait. This has become such a popular vacation activity, you may need to plan a year in advance to secure a spot with one of the rafting tour companies who will provide a safe and exciting ride on the Colorado River.

Arizona has some of the best places to view wildlife in the U.S.. You can search for 900 animal species over 50 million acres of public natural land. A great way to watch and learn why it's so important to protect animals as well as their habitat. Watching animals in their environment teaches children important lessons on conservation that keep vital habitats intact for future generations to enjoy.

Paleontology buffs head to the hills for a dinosaur "dance floor". A recently discovered, remote site, was uncovered on the Arizona-Utah border. This site is filled with thousands of dinosaur footprints that were embedded into the sandy soil around 190 million years ago. Tracks of dinosaur tail-drag marks can also be seen among the many dinosaur tracks. This site does require a permit, however. As of October of 2008, there was a four month waiting period for a permit and a $7.00 fee per person. Interested parties can call the Bureau of Land Management in St George, Utah at 435-688-3246 or go online here for more information. Click on Coyote Buttes for the dinosaur dance floor site.

Life in the American Old West spring to life in the many ghost towns and graveyards left behind. People who tried to tame a land of beauty only to discover the harsh reality of life in the west during the 1800s. Arizona's history is that of gunfights and saloons. Clashes between Native American Indians and the settlers moving into the territory. Natural sights to behold of mesas, buttes and canyons, draped in shades of red, standing tall and proud in a desolate environment that only the hardy dared to call home.

Navajo Nation is the largest Indian Reservation in the country. The Navajo Nation Museum houses a collection of 40,000 photographs along with art, archaeological discoveries and cultural displays.

Sonoran Desert, Lake Powell and The Mother Road (Route 66) sit atop a list of many wonders to behold in the state of Arizona. One will not be able to fully appreciate all of the adventures available in just one visit. It's safe to say, there is no way you will leave the Grand Canyon State disappointed. Only if you forgot to bring plenty of sunscreen and an appropriate hat.

Phoenix is the state capitol. The state bird is the Cactus Wren and the flower is the Saguaro cactus.

Famous Arizonians are, Sandra Day O'Connor-Supreme court justice, Frank Lloyd Wright-architect, Geronimo-Apache chief, Erma Bombeck-humorist and writer, Glen Campbell-singer, Cochise-Apache chief, Wyatt Earp-marshall, Lynda Carter-actress.

The Geology of the Grand Canyon, Grand Canyon Explorer

Grand Canyon North Rim Backpacking, Grand Canyon National Park

Rebecca Carroll, Dinosaur "Dance Floor" Found in Arizona, National Geographic News