SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. _ What's one thing Arizona has that many places do not have this time of year? Sun. And warm weather and cacti and mountains. In short, a desert climate.
The Sonoran Desert covers much of the southwestern part of the United States and into Mexico. It's known for a variety of vegetation including the majestic saguaro (it's the only place in the world it grows in the wild), prickly pear and organ pipe cactus.
In Scottsdale, a favorite vacation destination known for its golf courses and spas, I set out to explore the desert.
Apparently, exploring the desert is a popular vacation activity. According to the City of Scottsdale Tourism Department's October 2019 visitor statistics, exploring state parks and hiking were among the top 10 activities for visitors.