The Arizona Strip: A Mesa Resident's Guide to the Last Frontier

For those of us living in Mesa's suburban comfort, it's hard to imagine that just a few hours away lies one of America's most remote and untamed regions: The Arizona Strip. This vast expanse of land, lying north of the Grand Canyon and south of Utah, offers Mesa residents an extraordinary escape into true wilderness adventure.

What is The Arizona Strip?

The Arizona Strip is a 7.8-million-acre region of Arizona that's geographically cut off from the rest of the state by the Grand Canyon. From Mesa, this remarkable area feels like stepping into another world – one where paved roads are scarce, cell service is minimal, and adventure is unlimited.

Getting There from Mesa

For Mesa residents, reaching The Arizona Strip requires some planning:

• Primary Route: Take US-60 to I-17 North, then US-89A through Marble Canyon

• Alternative Route: Take US-93 to Las Vegas, then I-15 to St. George, Utah

• Travel Time: Expect 6-7 hours of driving from Mesa to reach the main access points

Why Mesa Residents Should Visit

Living in Mesa's desert environment, we might think we've seen it all – but The Arizona Strip offers landscapes that will challenge that assumption:

• The Vermilion Cliffs showcase colors and formations unlike anything in the Valley

• Mount Trumbull provides a forested escape from Mesa's heat

• The Parashant National Monument offers solitude that's impossible to find in the Phoenix metro area

Planning Your Trip from Mesa

Essential Preparations

Coming from Mesa's well-developed infrastructure, it's crucial to understand that The Strip is truly remote:

• Fuel up completely before entering the region – gas stations are extremely rare

• Bring more water than you think you'll need; the climate is even drier than Mesa

• Pack emergency supplies including spare tires and basic vehicle repair tools

• Download offline maps as cell service is virtually non-existent

Best Times to Visit

For Mesa residents accustomed to extreme summer heat:

• Spring (March-May): Perfect temperatures and wildflower blooms

• Fall (September-November): Ideal conditions for hiking and camping

• Winter: Beautiful but prepare for snow at higher elevations

• Summer: Avoid unless heading to higher elevations like Mount Trumbull

Must-See Destinations

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

• Wave Lottery Office in Kanab, Utah

• Coyote Buttes

• Paria Canyon

Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument

• Mount Trumbull Wilderness

• Toroweap Overlook

• Kelly Point

Pipespring National Monument

• Historic fort and cultural site

• Native American history

• Desert springs ecosystem

Activities for Mesa Adventurers

Off-Road Exploration

• Hundreds of miles of unpaved roads

• Technical 4x4 trails

• Remote camping opportunities

Photography

• Dark sky photography (significantly darker than Mesa)

• Landscape photography

• Wildlife photography

Hiking

• Remote trails

• Slot canyons

• Mountain summits

Wildlife Viewing

Unlike our urban Mesa environment, The Strip offers chances to see:

• Desert Bighorn Sheep

• California Condors

• Mountain Lions

• Pronghorn Antelope

Practical Tips for Mesa Residents

Vehicle Preparation

• High-clearance 4WD vehicle recommended

• Multiple spare tires

• Extra fuel cans

• Recovery gear

Camping Considerations

• Dispersed camping is allowed in most areas

• No developed campgrounds – bring everything you need

• Pack out all waste

• Fire restrictions may differ from Maricopa County

Navigation

• Bring physical maps

• GPS device with loaded waypoints

• Compass and knowledge of how to use it

Conservation and Respect

As Mesa residents visiting this pristine area:

• Follow Leave No Trace principles

• Respect archaeological sites

• Stay on designated routes

• Preserve the wilderness for future generations

Emergency Preparedness

Coming from Mesa's well-serviced area, remember:

• Nearest emergency services may be hours away

• Satellite communication device recommended

• Tell someone your plans before going

• Bring a well-stocked first aid kit

Seasonal Considerations

Summer

• Temperatures can exceed even Mesa's heat

• Higher elevations offer respite

• Start activities early

Winter

• Snow possible at elevation

• Roads may become impassable

• Shorter daylight hours

Final Thoughts

For Mesa residents seeking escape from city life, The Arizona Strip offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. While it requires more preparation than our usual weekend adventures, the reward is access to one of Arizona's last truly wild places. The contrast between our comfortable Mesa lifestyle and the Strip's rugged character makes the journey even more meaningful.

Remember to check current conditions and regulations before heading out, as access and requirements can change seasonally. With proper preparation and respect for the environment, The Arizona Strip provides Mesa residents with an extraordinary opportunity to explore one of America's last frontiers.