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Welcome to Arizona
Although Arizona is known throughout the world as the Grand Canyon State, the lands of our state offer an overwhelming array of variety: lofty volcanic peaks, large glittering blue lakes, and forests of distinctive saguaro cactus. The lowest point is 70 feet above sea level, near the Colorado River, and the highest is Humphreys Peak, topping out at 12,663 feet. In between are cactus-covered hills, red stony mesas, grassy plains, sky islands, arid canyons, and lush riparian areas. The history of Arizona is as varied and wonderful as the landscape.
Over the last several hundred years, many different cultures have chosen to call Arizona their home, whether prehistoric civilizations who built villages and farms along the rivers, Spanish conquistadors who built presidios and missions, or 19th century Americans who built Army forts and homesteads. Traces of all these people can be found on public lands, either painstakingly restored or in glorious ruin.
The changes in climate and biomes require the traveler to plan ahead. A visitor may drive through a blizzard in the north down to 80-degree sunny skies in the south. Summertime temperatures under blazing sunshine commonly reach into the hundreds, so wear protective, cool clothing, including a hat, and be sure to bring one gallon of water, per person, per day. The northern part of the state can experience extremely cold temperatures during the winter months, and even in the spring it is advisable to plan for snow and cold weather.
Take some time to explore the wonders of Arizona here at the Arizona Public Lands Information Center. You will discover a wealth of detailed information about where to go and what to do while touring the public lands of this state.
In our Maps & Books section, you can purchase books, maps, and other educational items to make your virtual or real visit truly rewarding. To begin your journey, click on Recreation Search.
For information on lodging, museums, tribal lands, and commercial attractions or services, contact the Arizona Department of Tourism. For information about hunting and fishing regulations and licensing information for Arizona, please contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
Arizona Department of Tourism
Arizona Game and Fish Department
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