Places to visit in Cottonwood, AZ.
The charming town of Cottonwood, Arizona, is a popular tourist destination for various reasons. As a result, you’ll find a wide array of activities here, from outdoor activities and sightseeing to fine dining. If you’re planning a trip to the area, look at our top picks of things to do in Cottonwood.
Cottonwood is a small town with a population of 12,440, according to the 2021 census. This city is located in Yavapai County, about 20 miles southwest of Sedona. It is known for its beautiful scenery and is a great place to visit. There are several things to do in Cottonwood, Arizona.
Tuzigoot National Monument
If you are visiting Arizona, you might want to visit Tuzigoot National Monument. It is a site that is rich in Native American history. In addition, you can see the ancient ruins of the largest Sinagua pueblo in the state.
Tuzigoot is located in the Verde Valley of Arizona. The area has a semi-arid climate. This means that it has warm summers and cool winters.
Tuzigoot National Monument is situated 120 feet above the floodplain of the Verde River. The area has a large wetland called the Tavasci Marsh. Many types of birds live in the marsh. The marsh is also a natural area that is important to the aesthetic value of the region.
The area is located near the towns of Clarkdale, Cornville, and Cottonwood. Visitors can drive to these towns and explore the history and scenery of the region.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park
Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood, Arizona, is a beautiful state park with plenty to offer the visitor. Located on the Verde River, the park offers camping and hiking. It is one of the more popular campgrounds in the area. You can rent a cabin for the night or stay overnight at one of the RV sites.
The park is located in the Coconino National Forest, near Prescott and Flagstaff. If you plan to stay for a weekend, you should reserve a campsite. However, you cannot make a reservation on the same day you arrive.
The park is in the shadow of Mingus Mountain. It is a great location to visit in the fall. There are also many opportunities for fishing and bird watching. Several of the lagoons are stocked with rainbow trout during the winter. This makes for excellent spring fishing.
Jail Trail in Cottonwood
The Jail Trail in Cottonwood, Arizona, is a quaint little trail in the city. It is 1,6 miles long and connects to the Verde River. This hike is a perfect way to experience Cottonwood’s natural beauty while enjoying a little history.
You can find the Jail Trail near the old historic jail. This trail is easy to navigate and gives visitors an enjoyable way to see the river. Hikers can take the trail in either direction. You will also find a variety of bird species and wildlife along the way.
When you reach the end of the Jail Trail, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the Verde Valley.
Blazin M Ranch
The Blazin M Ranch is a unique western-themed ranch in the Verde Valley of Arizona. A trip to this historic ranch is an excellent way to enjoy family-friendly entertainment. There are many activities to choose from, including roping lessons, a live shooting gallery, and vintage tractor rides.
This ranch also has a unique museum. It features a collection of moving miniature scenes and a saloon with horseshoes. In addition, visitors can participate in target shooting with an honest Colt.45 six-shooter.
The ranch has a range of activities available, from roping lessons to a fun chuckwagon dinner. In addition, the ranch is an excellent destination for families and weddings. Guests can also experience western entertainment in the form of cowboy shows and poetry.
Another activity that is sure to please is the Victorian costume photo studio. Visitors can get dressed in various period clothing while taking pictures in the Red Garter. These shots can be used as souvenirs for guests.
Gold King Mine & Ghost Town in Jerome, Arizona
The Gold King Mine and Ghost Town are one of the most popular attractions in the Verde Valley, located just two hours north of Phoenix and a good 45 minutes southwest of Sedona. It is a good destination for visitors who want to spend a day or more soaking up the scenery or if you want to take in a bit of Arizona history.
The most famous mine in the region is the Gold King Mine, a copper mining operation for many years. This mine produced three million pounds of copper a month. You can tour the mine and see the old-time mining equipment in action.
A few things to do while in Jerome are to check out the Gold King Mine Museum, which has some of the most impressive and well-preserved antique mining equipment in the region, or to visit some of the area’s wineries, boutique shops, and restaurants. There are even some bed and breakfasts to choose from.
Best Things to Do in Cottonwood, Arizona
- Tuzigoot National Monument
- Dead Horse Ranch State Park
- Jail Trail in Cottonwood
- Blazin M Ranch
- Gold King Mine Ghost Town in Jerome, Arizona