Known for its convenient location on Route 66 and the Santa Fe Rail Line, Winslow, Arizona, has been a haven for travelers for decades. Bordering the Navajo Nation to the North, Winslow is also steeped in Navajo and Hopi culture, both past and present. Not only does the community offer rich Native American and westward expansion relics, but it also provides great opportunities for outdoor recreation. So hop aboard your plane, train, or automobile and take a trip to Winslow!
This story was created in partnership with Visit Winslow.
A Small City with a Large Legacy
Located in northern Arizona, Winslow is characterized by a mix of old-fashioned charm and contemporary appeal. It’s a city steeped in American history, especially along the historic Route 66, which runs through the heart of downtown. One of its most iconic landmarks is La Posada, a historic Harvey House hotel built in 1930 by architect Mary Colter. The original southwestern style architecture with hand-painted details houses a labyrinth of rooms filled with pieces by local artists. La Posada stands as a testament to the golden age of train travel when it served as a luxurious oasis for weary travelers. Even if you don’t book a room, it’s worth enjoying a meal at the Turquoise Room, wandering the grounds, and visiting the on-site Affeldt Mion Museum, home to the world’s largest Navajo rug!
Alongside its rich history, Winslow gained further fame through The Eagles’ song “Take It Easy,” which immortalized a corner of the town, now the Standin’ On The Corner Park. Visitors can take a photo with the bronze young man, lovingly named Easy, characterized by the song, or in front of the large steel eagle’s wings. You can even become a part of the corner itself by having a brick inscribed for yourself or a loved one. Today, Winslow remains a popular stop for travelers wanting a taste of Americana, set against the backdrop of northern Arizona’s wide open expanses and desert mesas.
Preserving the Past
For those interested in delving further into Winslow’s history, the Old Trails Museum provides a fascinating journey through time, showcasing the town’s role in the development of the American West through exhibits and artifacts. In addition to the history of westward expansion, Winslow also boasts a variety of natural wonders and a rich cultural heritage. Homolovi State Park, just 10 minutes from downtown, is a lens into the region’s rich Native American history, with ancient Hopi pueblo ruins and pottery shards revealing glimpses of the past.
Travel east of Winslow to delve even deeper into the past and visit Petrified Forest National Park. Find yourself captivated by its unique landscape, where vibrant petrified wood and the colorful vistas of the Painted Desert create a picture of prehistoric times. Continue your ancient exploration west of Winslow to Meteor Crater National Landmark, where a colossal, mile-wide meteor impact site formed over 50,000 years ago, offering visitors a chance to witness one of the best preserved craters on Earth. The site also includes an expansive exhibit about the history of meteor impacts as well as tours led by astro-experts.
An Oasis for Adventure
Just beyond the outskirts of Winslow, McHood Park’s Clear Creek Reservoir and Jack’s Canyon Campground and Sport Climbing Area offer a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Clear Creek Reservoir, with its serene waters reflecting the surrounding desert landscape, is an escape for fishing enthusiasts and boaters alike. Anglers can cast their lines in hopes of reeling in bass, catfish, and trout. The several miles of sandstone canyon walls feature ample opportunities for cliff jumping into the deep, refreshing water. For a longer adventure, rent a kayak or paddle board from Clear Creek Rentals (who will even drop the boat off for you) and paddle into the depths of the canyon where green grottos and sandy banks reveal themselves around every bend.
Meanwhile, a short drive away, Jack’s Canyon beckons climbers with its rugged cliffs and world-class sport climbing routes. Jack’s Canyon is a playground of vertical challenges for all skill levels, with over 300 routes from beginners honing their skills on gentle inclines to seasoned climbers tackling challenging overhangs. There are also trails for hiking both above on the desert mesa and within the canyon along a meandering creek. Together, Clear Creek Reservoir and Jack’s Canyon showcase Winslow’s outdoor spirit—an oasis of adventure in the Northern Arizona desert.
