#Vinecations: Arizona's Petrified Forest

A trip through the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona is like traveling back in time 200 million years, with ancient layers of sediment forming the back drop for these “trees turned to stone.” If you find yourself in the Grand Canyon State this February for the Super Bowl, or just decide to make a warm escape there, be sure to explore the other-worldly landscape of Arizona’s Blue Mesa.

Scenic drives and national parks
If you are arriving in Arizona by air, you’ll definitely want to rent a car to take advantage of scenic landscapes. The infamous Route 66 traverses the state in the north, along with what is currently Interstate 40. Along it you’ll find the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park. In Flagstaff, I-40 is intersected by Highway 89, running north to the Grand Canyon. Several interesting parks and monuments are clustered in this region, such as Walnut Creek, Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki National Monuments.

Why go in winter
Arizona is a popular winter destination, with good reason. The desert climate of Central and Southern Arizona will have an average temperature ranging from 65F to 75F during the winter months (80F to 105F during the summer). Meanwhile, Northern Arizona has mountainous regions and snowfall and skiing in the winter—with highs in the 40’s. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is open year-round, and winter is an especially good time to visit, with fewer crowds. The National Parks are fee-free on January 19, and February 14-16.

Where to stay
If you plan to visit National Parks, then Flagstaff isthe perfect base from which to explore in any direction. If it’s the pampered city life you fancy, Scottsdale is an ideal base, with luxury resorts, shopping, golf courses and spas.