The Phoenix Traveler

How about a break from holiday planning? Would you like to see a little bit of Arizona that requires a trip off-the-beaten path?

This past year, I’ve been working on a travel guide that’s taken me all over Arizona. I’ve shot the typical landscapes you might expect to see in Arizona: saguaros, desert mountain views, red rock cliffs, dry river beds. But I’ve also seen some pretty quirky images, things you won’t see if you don’t hop on a back road or two…most of which aren’t even paved, and are often closed during the winter. Not to worry. You can plan ahead for a springtime outing.

Here’s a few snapshots of what I’ve seen and a few tips on how you can get there yourself:

STICK ‘EM UP

I spotted this bike on a post and the rooster on a wall at Aravaipa Farms. That’s a country inn near Winkelman, Ariz., located next to the Aravaipa Wilderness Preserve. Although I thought the bike may have attached itself to the post following a serious flood from Aravaipa Creek a few years back, that wasn’t the case. The owner said it was placed there just for fun. The rooster is actually embedded in a casita wall.

IF YOU GO:  From Phoenix, take US 60 east toward Superior. Before you reach Miami-Globe, turn right at SR 177 to Winkelman. I suggest you visit the Web site before leaving home, as the owner has pretty lengthy instructions that steer you the rest of the way in. You’ll be driving an unpaved road shortly after you reach Winkelman. But for the food alone, it’ll be worth the trip. Plan to stay overnight and pack proper clothing for water hikes. 

SPROUTING BODY PARTS

This face and foot I spotted at two Page Springs wineries. But I don’t want to tell you where exactly. I’d rather you go and find them yourself. They’re both odd sites to see amongst the vineyards and elegant setting of a wine tasting, so they kind of can’t be missed.

I posted about the wine tour a few weeks ago. But you can take this route on your own as well. The drive takes you beside the lush Oak Creek, with Cottonwood trees to shade the way.

IF YOU GO: Hop on Interstate 17 and follow the road to Sedona. Before you reach Sedona from SR 89A, you’ll want to turn right onto Page Springs Road. Then drive the loop around to the wineries closest to the fish hatchery.

If you see anything odd out there, come back and post a comment.

(Photos courtesy of Jackie Dishner.)

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