4 Great Outdoor Activities in Driving Distance of Cottonwood, AZ

Cottonwood, AZ, boasting a scenic state park, a unique riparian forest, and one of the best birding habitats in the state, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Load your outdoor gear in a Jeep Wrangler and head down the road to enjoy an array of exciting outdoor activities. 

1. Explore Dead Horse Ranch State Park on the Trails

Dead Horse Ranch State Park at 675 Dead Horse Ranch Road in Cottonwood has over twenty miles of multi-use trails, with four to the high desert of Coconino National Forest. Explore the park on foot or in the saddle on the two-mile Verde River Greenway and discover the area’s best nesting habitats, lagoons, and spectacular scenery along the way.

The park also offers one and two-hour guided horseback rides through the park’s unique Cottonwood and Willow riparian forest ecosystem, one of fewer than 20 riparian zones in the world. 

2. Observe Birds along the Verde River 

Cottonwood is one of Arizona’s richest birding habitats. During the spring bird migration season, Dead Horse Ranch State Park, on the banks of the Verde River, hosts the annual Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival from April 27 to April 30.

During the festival, knowledgeable guides lead birding tours and hikes along the Verde River and its tributaries that create lush corridors where birdlife flourishes, and birders can observe many migrating and nesting bird species.

3. Go on a Kayaking and Fishing Adventure

The Verde River, the lifeblood of Central Arizona, is teeming with fish, but reeling in a prize catch could be tricky if you are unfamiliar with the best fishing spots. That’s where AZ Legend Adventure Kayak Fishing Tours will guide you down the river and show you all the best sites to hook largemouth and smallmouth bass and rainbow trout.

They offer full and half-day kayak fishing adventures for up to five anglers and will provide you with a kayak, fishing rods, and tackle and show you the best bait to use. Book a fishing trip on their website or give them a call at 928 301 2253.

4. Spend a Day in Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park at North 10th Street is Cottonwood’s largest park and offers various outdoor recreational activities. The park’s large grassy fields provide ample space to throw a frisbee, fly a kite, or kick a ball around. There is an 18-tee disc golf course, volleyball courts, a four-field adult softball field complex, and a five-court horseshoe pit.

Little ones have two playgrounds and a swing set, and Fido can stretch his legs in the dog park with separate areas for large and small barkers. It’s also an excellent place to throw a few steaks on the fire and enjoy a barbeque with family and friends.

Cottonwood is packed with exciting outdoor adventures in beautiful and unique natural surroundings. Before you go off to discover all the outdoor fun, call Oxendale Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram today for a checkup to ensure your ride is in top condition. 

Image via Pixabay

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