If you are keen on knowing more about the paintings made by the early men, pay a visit to V-Bar-V Heritage Site. This heritage site was taken over by the Coconino National Forest in the year 1994, and is now open for visitors to come and have a look at some of the best art styles. The rock art patterns found here depict the pre-historic lifestyle of the Sinagua culture, giving an in depth knowledge on how life was carried out, by the first ever civilizations on earth. You get to see the depiction of animals as well as geometric figures, making the trip a highly knowledgeable one. Spend a few hours at this heritage site, for a wonderful journey down the historical lane.
Created by underground springs, this limestone sinkhole near Montezuma's Castle was once a large underground cavern. Now a natural well surrounded by Indian cliff dwellings, it is home to plant and animal life found nowhere else in the world. Warm underground springs maintain an unusually stable habitat in the well. Prehistoric farmers utilized this well for crop irrigation. Note that the address given above is for Montezuma's Castle; the well is located northeast of the castle. The 1/3-mile walkway is not recommended for wheelchairs.
Perfect for a day out with family and friends, Riverfront Park offers visitors the opportunity to unwind amid picturesque environs. Recreational activities abound here, and the park features picnic spots, a disc golf course, playing fields, playgrounds, volleyball courts, and a designated dog area, among other convenient amenities. Take a break from your sightseeing excursions across Cottonwood and head to this refreshing destination to rejuvenate and relax. Additionally, you can also avail yourself of the barbecue pits, hockey rink, and skatepark.
Sprawled over 423 acres (171 hectares), Dead Horse Ranch State Park is a favorite among tourists and locals alike. An ideal destination for picnics, family outings, and several recreational activities, the park features a landscape characterized by lush lawns, grasslands, woods, and open areas. Situated along the Verde River, the park offers access to fishing along scenic lagoons and numerous cabins should you wish to stay the night. Explore the trails winding across the terrain on foot or horseback, or engage in birdwatching and wildlife viewing sessions. Various nature festivals and ranch events are also held within the park premises.
Tucked amid the scenic landscape of Verde Valley, Cottonwood exudes a quaint charm, its small-town characteristics and time-honored features lending credence to its historical tapestry. While enduring landmarks in the city's Old Town attest to its culture and heritage, Cottonwood's wineries are a testament to its reputation as the wine capital of the region. Avid oenophiles can follow the Verde Valley Wine Trail, which will lead them to some of the best tasting rooms in the area, while nature lovers can unwind at the Riverfront Park or explore the picturesque terrain of the Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Old Town Cottonwood is a delightful mosaic of galleries, historic buildings, and cultural centers and makes for a rewarding stroll.
A famous nature trail that attracts tourists and nature-lovers from far and wide in the United States, the Pumphouse County Natural Area is regarded to be one of the most picturesque and exclusive wildlife habitats in the whole of Arizona State. Covering approximately 128 acres (65 hectares) of lush-green, natural landscape, including wetlands, rivers, ponds, forest area, natural springs and valleys, this region is famous for its rich biodiversity, which includes elks, waterfowl, garter snakes, foxes, deers, migratory and wading birds, wintering bald eagles, and small mammals. Visitors can also check out Harrenburg Wash, the Kachina Wetlands and Raymond County Park, which are situated in the vicinity and considered to be popular birding hot spots.