weekend lens

This weekend we drove up the I-17 towards Flagstaff. It's, to me, one of the prettiest drives in the country. We meandered our way there and experienced parts of Arizona that are one of a kind. We found beauty all along our path which wound around many mountains. We ascended and descended to various elevations; from 1000 feet above sea level all the way up to 7000.

We were curious about Arcosanti, the urban laboratory, and didn't hesitate to stop. If you are curious to know what it is check out their website here. We were a bit bummed that we didn't book a few nights there while we were in town. It is now on our "to stay" list when we return. Or at least go for a show.

Jerome was the next stop on our journey. It's a small old mining town up on or near Mingus Mountain. We had a BBQ lunch that was way too good. I didn't expect it it to be such a neat place full of charm, character, ruins, and art galleries!  Jerome has also got amazing views that scope a wide range of mountains.

 I could easily make nest in this place!  The picture of that big estate overlooking the mountains use to be the miner's old living quarters. That huge home now belongs to a married couple with no kids, or so the story goes. That's one spacious home for two people. :) I am certainly jealous of their views. If you are ever traveling through this part of Arizona, stopping in Jerome is a must!

So on to Flagstaff we went! But not before stopping in Sedona. We stopped and sipped some tea and water on a balcony surrounded by red rock. Need I say more?

Flagstaff was just a jaunt away from Sedona. I love how the topography changes from brilliant red rock to breezy green forests. There's so much variety in this state! We made a stop at a scenic view spot which was up at a 6000 ft level. And we were blessed with another amazing view. The main attraction for us here was the art walk downtown and we did walk a bit of it with grateful hearts. 

A great day indeed! I hope you enjoyed the wonderful land of Arizona vicariously through my travels.

If only I could get a job working for Arizona Highways Magazine!