We love sharing all the amazing places to visit and experiences awaiting across our state. In 2021, for National Travel and Tourism Week, we sent former Arizona Office of Tourism Director Debbie Johnson and former Deputy Director Becky Blaine out on their own Arizona road trip to talk with a few of the people who make the Grand Canyon State an unrivaled vacation destination.
We followed their trip and turned it into an itinerary for anyone to enjoy.
North-Central Arizona
Going there: Phoenix to Pine-Strawberry
Head north from Phoenix toward the Mogollon Rim and the cooler temperatures of the Pine-Strawberry area, located at 5,400 feet.
Things to Do: Provence. Royal Velvet. Grosso. While these sound like they could be these names of fine Arizona wines or other artisan wares, they actually describe the three types of lavender grown at Pine Creek Canyon Lavender Farm. Owner Terry Gorton and her team craft these exquisite plants into a host of artisan products including lavender lotions, soaps, healing salves, hair and beard oil blends. And for those looking for extra indulgence, lavender pound cake, lavender-lemon scones, lavender focaccia breads, lavender shortbread, gluten-free crisp lavender cookies and a host of other items are available for purchase at the farm store. For the culinarily-inclined, there’s even an on-site cooking school where visitors can learn how to infuse lavender into all types of dishes. There’s always something new to discover.
Meet Terry Gorton, Owner of Pine Creek Canyon Lavender Farm:
