In the north-central region of Arizona, just an hour’s drive to the southwest of Flagstaff is the small town of Cottonwood. At an elevation of 3,300 feet, it boasts milder weather than some of the cities to the south too, which can be a welcome reprieve for those unfamiliar with Arizona’s hot, dry climate. Cottonwood is considered the heart of the Verde Valley, a popular tourist areas known for abundant wineries, magnificent scenery, and excellent opportunities for outdoor pursuits. The lush forests and striking red rock canyons of the region stand in sharp contrast to the expansive and blisteringly hot Sonoran Desert 250 miles to the south.