Explore Verde Valley

The Verde Valley is surrounded by the Mingus Mountains and Woodchute Mountains and is traversed by the Verde River. Read more about the cluster of Central Arizona communities that make up the Verde Valley.

Cottonwood began as a small adobe where soldiers took refuge in 1874. Soon, settlers began moving in, and created a place whose namesake is a circle of 16 cottonwood trees near the Verde River. The community was established in 1879 and incorporated in 1960. In Yavapai County, Cottonwood is near the geographic center of Arizona at an elevation of 3,300 feet. Cottonwood is approximately 100 miles north of Phoenix. Prescott visitors can get to Cottonwood via scenic, winding Highway 89A through Jerome - about 44 miles (1 hour 10 minutes) - or via Highway 69 to Highway 169 to Interstate 17 to Highway 250 through Camp Verde - about 54 miles (1 hour 15 minutes). Click here for Cottonwood lodging and things to do nearby.

Jerome, Arizona was built on Cleopatra Hill above a vast deposit of copper. The mines, the workers and those who sought its wealth formed Jerome's history. They were a brave and raucous mix: miners, smelter workers, freighters, gamblers, bootleggers, saloon keepers, storekeepers, prostitutes and preachers, wives and children made Jerome what it was. Today, visitors walk the hillside streets visiting galleries, shops, restaurants and bars. Bikers feel quite at home at (in)famous Jerome haunts such as The Spirit Room. Wine and food lovers indulge at the Jerome Winery and local artisanal eateries. Thrill-seekers delight in Jerome’s reportedly haunted hotels and former houses of ill-repute. To get to Jerome from Prescott, take Highway 89A north about 35 miles (about 55 minutes.)

Camp Verde lies near the geographic center of Arizona. It is in the Verde River valley of central Arizona, 85 miles north of Phoenix, at an elevation of approximately 3100 feet. Camp Verde is the oldest community in the valley, and was established in 1865.

Clarkdale is at the upper end of the Verde Valley in Yavapai County and is approximately 110 miles north of Phoenix and south of the Grand Canyon at an elevation of 3,542 feet. Topography of the area is characterized by numerous mesas and buttes along the rise from the Verde River on the east, at 3,300 feet, to the Mingus Mountains on the west, at 7,000 feet. Clarkdale, incorporated in 1957, was laid out in 1914 near the site of the Clarkdale Smelter, which was financed by Senator William A. Clark of Montana. Clarkdale is approximately 107 miles north of Phoenix. Prescott visitors can get to Clarkdale via scenic, winding Highway 89A through Jerome - about 40 miles (1 hour 5 minutes) - or via Highway 69 to Highway 169 to Interstate 17 to Highway 250 through Camp Verde - about 58 miles (1 hour 25 minutes).

Sedona

Just 90 minutes north of Prescott, Arizona, Sedona has become a day trip and overnight destination for visitors to Northern Arizona who wish to explore the famous red rocks, the scenic Verde River, the 1.8 million-acre Coconino National Forest, or the winding road through Oak Creek Canyon. There are a nearly infinite number of things to do in Sedona! Relax atop shaded boulders that dot the 16-mile gorge of Oak Creek Canyon, take a rugged Jeep tour or helicopter tour deep into Sedona's authentic Indian ruins, scale a red rock monolith that penetrates the crystal blue sky or feel the earth's energy at one of several Sedona vortexes. Whatever you do, Sedona will take your breath away. To get to Sedona from Prescott, take Highway 69 to Highway 169, then Interstate 17 to Highway 179 (about 67 miles; 1 hour 25 minutes.)


THINGS TO DO IN VERDE VALLEY

Out Of Africa Wildlife Park

Come see Tiger Splash show at 1:15 every day. Watch Bengal tigers in natural play as they "hunt" their caretakers. Open Daily 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Just 40 minutes from Sedona.

The Blazin’ M Ranch - A Western Themed Frontier Town, Dinner, and A Show

Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with f

Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with foil-wrapped potato, cowboy beans, our prickly pear coleslaw, flying biscuits and a delicious homemade dessert.

After dinner the Blazin’ M Cowboys entertain ya’ with their award-winning musical talents mixed with cowboy poetry and humor with a 1 hour show from 7:30pm - 8:30pm!


Zane Grey RV Park (55+ park)

A Beautiful Northern Arizona RV Park and Cabin Rental resort near Sedona and the Red Rock attractions. Comfortable RV camping sites on West Clear Creek in Camp Verde, Arizona. The location is unique, with a creek-side path and lots of shade. Our friendly staff will make your stay comfortab
A Beautiful Northern Arizona RV Park and Cabin Rental resort near Sedona and the Red Rock attractions. Comfortable RV camping sites on West Clear Creek in Camp Verde, Arizona. The location is unique, with a creek-side path and lots of shade. Our friendly staff will make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Zane Grey RV Village is open year round to meet your Arizona vacation needs in any season.Zane Grey RV Village is really quite beautiful!A premiere RV park in the Red Rock region of Arizona.

Private Arizona Wine Tasting Tour, A Divine Vine

We specialize in creating FUN-filled ELEVATED experiences. Our guides pride themselves in making sure you really enjoy your day. Enjoy the delicious wine or beer of Arizona without the hassle of designating a driver. Our fun local knowledgeable guide will show you around the vineyard and w
We specialize in creating FUN-filled ELEVATED experiences. Our guides pride themselves in making sure you really enjoy your day. Enjoy the delicious wine or beer of Arizona without the hassle of designating a driver. Our fun local knowledgeable guide will show you around the vineyard and will even be your personal photographer for the day! Our tours are customized to you, so you get to set the time. All tours are PRIVATE, so once we pick you up, we are off to the vineyards! This will be one of the best tours you do in the Sedona area. Our passion is to pamper you and create a memorable day. You will visit 3 to 4 vineyards or breweries. The choice is yours. Book now to reserve your next wine/beer tasting tour.

PRIVATE Guided River kayaking on the Verde River Cottonwood, AZ (Private Group)

Explore Arizona’s Verde River with a dedicated guide on this private kayak tour. Depart from a designated pickup point in a UTV and enjoy an off-road adventure on the way to the launch point. Sit atop your kayak and enjoy a guided tour through the river, taking in the landscapes along t

Explore Arizona’s Verde River with a dedicated guide on this private kayak tour. Depart from a designated pickup point in a UTV and enjoy an off-road adventure on the way to the launch point. Sit atop your kayak and enjoy a guided tour through the river, taking in the landscapes along the way. Enjoy stops at several water holes to swim and cool off before heading back.

  • Enjoy the views of the Verde River on a kayak
  • See more than you would if you explore on your own
  • All necessary kayaking equipment is provided
  • A private tour ensures a personalized experience

  • Full-Day Guided Kayak Fishing Down the N. Verde River from Cottonwood

    Fishing on Arizona's Verde River offers the opportunity to catch some really awesome fish, but if you don't know the best spots to go to, you may come back empty handed. This Verde River Kayak Fishing Full-Day Experience from Cottonwood takes you down river with a guide and in a kayak,

    Fishing on Arizona's Verde River offers the opportunity to catch some really awesome fish, but if you don't know the best spots to go to, you may come back empty handed. This Verde River Kayak Fishing Full-Day Experience from Cottonwood takes you down river with a guide and in a kayak, so you not only get to fish in great spots, but you also get closer to the fish, too.

  • Go on a fun, full-day fishing trip down Arizona's Verde River
  • A perfect activity for avoiding crowds—you'll fish from your own kayak
  • A guide takes you down the river to private river runs, too
  • A kayak and all necessary fishing gear are provided for you

  • Northern Arizona Private Wine Tour south of Sedona - Verde Valley Wineries

    Tour Sedona’s Verde Valley wineries on this private wine tour in Sedona. You and your group (max 14) will be driven in a luxury limo- think Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit- so no one needs to worry about logistics or driving. You’ll visit three vineyards, where tastings are inclu

    Tour Sedona’s Verde Valley wineries on this private wine tour in Sedona. You and your group (max 14) will be driven in a luxury limo- think Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit- so no one needs to worry about logistics or driving. You’ll visit three vineyards, where tastings are included in the price. Lunch is also included, so you can relax and enjoy this trip with everything taken care of for you.

  • Enjoy a half day tour departing from your hotel with drop off at the end
  • Wine tasting fees are included with this price- three per person
  • Tailor the tastings to your preference
  • Enjoy lunch at Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room and Osteria

  • Sedona with Jerome and Montezuma Castle One-Day Van Tour from Phoenix

    Explore the sights surrounding Sedona on this guided day trip. Head out from Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, or Mesa to see Sedona sights including the famous Red Rocks, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and more, followed by a visit to the old mining town of Jerome. This tour includes all admission f
    Explore the sights surrounding Sedona on this guided day trip. Head out from Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, or Mesa to see Sedona sights including the famous Red Rocks, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and more, followed by a visit to the old mining town of Jerome. This tour includes all admission fees as well as transportation among locations.

    Montezuma Castle, Jerome and Sedona Day Tour From Scottdale or Phoenix

    Discover Arizona’s rich history and Native American heritage on this full-day tour from Scottsdale or Phoenix. Visit two National Monuments—Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot—and learn more about the Sinagua people as you admire the fascinating ruins. Afterward, explore the former mining town o
    Discover Arizona’s rich history and Native American heritage on this full-day tour from Scottsdale or Phoenix. Visit two National Monuments—Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot—and learn more about the Sinagua people as you admire the fascinating ruins. Afterward, explore the former mining town of Jerome and enjoy an included lunch in Sedona.

    Kayak Tour on the Verde River

    Immerse yourself in Arizona’s beautiful scenery—and enjoy a new way to explore—on this family-friendly kayaking tour along the Verde River. Pick between several departure times, grab your safety gear, and set off in a shuttle to the river with just a small group for company. This beginn

    Immerse yourself in Arizona’s beautiful scenery—and enjoy a new way to explore—on this family-friendly kayaking tour along the Verde River. Pick between several departure times, grab your safety gear, and set off in a shuttle to the river with just a small group for company. This beginner-friendly tour includes a relaxing paddle down a 3.1-mile (5-kilometer) stretch of this river, and the chance to take on gentle mini rapids.

  • Admire the lush scenery along the Verde River from the water’s edge
  • This small-group tour guarantees hands-on guidance and training
  • Safety gear, inflatable or hard kayaks, and shuttle transit included
  • Get out in nature and enjoy a fun and lively way to explore.

  • 2 Hours Water to Wine Kayak Trip from Cottonwood

    The perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, this tour combines a kayaking excursion with wine tasting in Arizona’s Verde Valley. Paddle down the Verde River in a kayak and stop at a vineyard for a sommelier-led tasting. Feel safe with a guide who can offer paddling and safety t

    The perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, this tour combines a kayaking excursion with wine tasting in Arizona’s Verde Valley. Paddle down the Verde River in a kayak and stop at a vineyard for a sommelier-led tasting. Feel safe with a guide who can offer paddling and safety tips, as well as sharing information on the river’s flora and fauna.

  • Combine two fun activities—kayaking and wine-tasting—on this guided tour
  • Enjoy a leisurely paddle along the Verde River—suitable for all abilities
  • Taste wines from Arizona’s premier wine-growing region: the Verde Valley
  • Receive $20 credit to spend at the winery on tastings, snacks, or gifts

  • Guided Horseback Tour only 30 mins from Sedona

    Go horseback riding in Arizona during this small-group tour in Cottonwood, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. Meet your guide and set out on a tour through the Alcantara Vineyards. Cross the water where the Verde River and Oak Creek meet, and get up close to see ancient Apache ruins.

    Go horseback riding in Arizona during this small-group tour in Cottonwood, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. Meet your guide and set out on a tour through the Alcantara Vineyards. Cross the water where the Verde River and Oak Creek meet, and get up close to see ancient Apache ruins. Admire panoramic mountain views during this scenic excursion. No prior experience is necessary.

  • Discover Arizona by horseback tour
  • Ride through scenic vineyards
  • See historic sites during the tour
  • All experience levels welcome

  • Wine Tour from Sedona to four Verde Valley Vineyards in Luxury Transportation

    Our tour starts off by picking you up anywhere in Sedona, resort, motel or private home, in a custom Turtle Top tour coach, custom Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Expedition depending on your tour size. We will go to 3 to 4 of the best local wineries. You will receive discounts on tastings
    Our tour starts off by picking you up anywhere in Sedona, resort, motel or private home, in a custom Turtle Top tour coach, custom Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Expedition depending on your tour size. We will go to 3 to 4 of the best local wineries. You will receive discounts on tastings and bottles of wine, at some of the wineries. You may bring your own alcoholic (or nonalcoholic) beverages with you on the bus. At one of the wineries, we will have a picnic, outside next to the grapevines or inside. The picnic is served on linens, it includes your own personal charcuterie tray. This tray includes French bread, gourmet cheeses, hard salami, olive oil with balsamic vinegar, grapes, nuts, and chocolates, for each individual person on the tour. At one of the award-winning wineries, we will be touring the production facility and barrel room. There we will discuss the wine-making process and what it takes to make a cluster of grapes into an award-winning bottle of wine. Lots of smiles!

    Jerome History Walk

    Arizona once had a booming mining industry, known for copper and gold. Discover Arizona’s old mining history on a walking tour of the historic mining town of Jerome. Join a small group and explore the mining town stopping at key locations like the sliding jail, that slid off of its foundat
    Arizona once had a booming mining industry, known for copper and gold. Discover Arizona’s old mining history on a walking tour of the historic mining town of Jerome. Join a small group and explore the mining town stopping at key locations like the sliding jail, that slid off of its foundation into the street, as well as the mining museum. Listen to stories of the old mining town while you walk See old mining equipment and saloon remains.

    Grape Train Escape: Wine Tasting and Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure

    Savor the flavors of the diverse vineyards of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond. The Verde Canyon Railroad's Grape Train Escape treats passengers to select wines from the Southwest accompanied by specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres while winemakers discuss earache wineries terroir and

    Savor the flavors of the diverse vineyards of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond. The Verde Canyon Railroad's Grape Train Escape treats passengers to select wines from the Southwest accompanied by specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres while winemakers discuss earache wineries terroir and techniques.

  • Wine train experience: Sample the wines of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond
  • Onboard Southwest winemakers provide insights into technique and terror
  • Includes pairings of specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres
  • Small-group experience (maximum nine guests).

  • EXPLORE GUIDED ADVENTURE AROUND VERDE VALLEY