OUTDOOR RECREATION

The four-hour nature ride on Verde Canyon Railroad into Arizona’s other “grand canyon” is an unforgettable adventure. Captivating panoramic views are revealed in every direction. Take advantage of the outdoor viewing platforms while enjoying the canyon sun and cocktails served from the train's onboard bar. As far as the eye can see, wildlife, high-desert foliage and rugged terrain in a lush riparian habitat.

Explore the legacy of ancient peoples in an ancient 110-room hilltop pueblo. The monument sits high atop the Verde Valley and is a striking piece of history that still stands strong. Discover endless views of varying desert habitats and learn about the Sinaguan people and see a collection of artifacts at the museum.

There are two public River Access Points (RAP) to the Verde River in Clarkdale. These can be used for hiking, bird watching, fishing, picnicking, photography, canoeing and kayaking. The Lower TAPCO RAP provides access to a beautiful section of the Verde River corridor. The Tuzigoot RAP is located on Arizona State Park property and is part of the Verde River Greenway State Natural Area.

Hop in one of Clarkdale Kayak Company's top of the line, hard-shell kayaks and cruise down the scenic Verde River. These boats feature a sit-on-top design that makes them comfortable, stable and most of all, safe. Kayaking the Verde River @ Clarkdale is an absolute blast! It's a fun, interactive experience where you get to cool off and learn about the unique history of the Verde River.

A part of Tuzigoot National Monument and designated as an Audobon Important Birding Area, Tavasci Marsh is one-of-a-kind birding and hiking experience. The marsh itself is quite large and you can hike around approximately 2/3 of it with no trouble at all. It varies from tall grass/reed marsh to Cottonwood stands. Birds you might see in the area include Bell's Vireo, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Belted Kingfisher, Brewer's Sparrow, Clapper Rail and the Cordilleran Flycatcher.

Each year, the Verde River Institute hosts more than 300 people on guided kayak trips on the Verde River @ Clarkdale stretch of the river. These trips are designed to educate and engage people from school kids to statewide leaders! If you’re passionate about helping to save the Verde River, you need to go on one of these wonderful trips!

Clarkdale is the gateway to Sycamore Canyon which you will enter as you follow Sycamore Canyon Road north from town. The wilderness area encompasses the second largest canyon in Arizona’s red rock country. A lesser known, but equally scenic, cousin of Oak Creek Canyon, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness contains more than 50,000 acres of colorful cliffs, soaring pinnacles, and one of the world's rarest habitats, a desert riparian area.

Located in the cool pines of central Arizona, Mingus Mountain offers a wide range of recreational opportunities including: picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, camping, fishing, hunting, hang gliding, and paragliding.

AllTrails has selected 13 of the best scenic trails in the Clarkdale area. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. Explore one of 6 easy hiking trails in Clarkdale or discover kid-friendly routes for your next family trip. Check out some trails with historic sights or adventure through the nature areas surrounding Clarkdale that are perfect for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts at any skill level.