Parked in the Kitchen: Ranger Review: Arizona Edition, Part 3

We left Flagstaff and headed south...making our way towards Phoenix and my eventual departure back to Oklahoma. But, why take the interstate when you can take the scenic route? We chose Arizona's 89A, deciding that we'd just take the day as it came, without any plans...it turned out to be wonderful!

Our first stop was the Oak Creek Canyon overlook in the Coconino National Forest.

We continued south through the National Forest on 89A towards Sedona, enjoying the beautiful views at every turn as we dropped in elevation.

Most people would've stopped in Sedona, but it seemed pretty touristy...and we were on a mission...I looked at the map and realized we could make it to Tuzigoot National Monument if we kept moving...so on we rolled. We arrived at Tuzigoot with plenty of time to look around.

Ok, remember where I said, "plenty of time"? As much as we both love earning our passport stamps, we just weren't feeling the NPS love at Tuzigoot. We talked to the Ranger inside the very kitschy visitor center and quickly headed out to the ruins to earn our stamp and get the heck out of there! Don't get me wrong, pueblo ruins are beautiful and a WPA-built VC with original exhibits isn't bad either, but it's just kinda funky at Tuzigoot.

We continued on as the sun started to set. The road took us up and down mountains, through hairpin turns, and up into Jerome, Arizona, an historic mining town tucked into the side of a mountain. Incredible. The town has in the process of revitalization with new shops, galleries, and restaurants. There are interesting historic buildings around every corner. It was too late in the day to stay long, but we hope to go back.

The drive was just gorgeous. It was full of surprises behind each curve. 89A is a must-see. Sometimes the best thing you can do is get off of the interstate...without a schedule or a plan.