The small town of Clarkdale (population: 3,100) sits quietly in the upper Verde Valley of Arizona. The people here are friendly and the open streets and sidewalks offer little resistance to the happy-go-lucky traveler in search of a rest from the surrounding adventure. And in this region outdoor adventure abounds, with the Tuzigoot National Monument and Dead Horse Ranch State Park only minutes away. Also close by are the Verde Canyon Railroad and the Mingus Mountain Recreation Area. But you don't need to leave town in order to enjoy the surrounding natural environment; Clarkdale boasts some of the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises around. Also, in July there is an Independence Day festival that's been running for 35 years and seems to get larger and more boisterous every year. Clarkdale is a quiet rest stop en route to surrounding outdoor adventures. But you may be so impressed with the tranquil, beautiful town that maybe, you'll forget to leave.
