Hike Along A Pristine River Then Dine At A Small-Town Cafe On This Delightful Adventure In Arizona
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 09, 2023
×
Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Sedona might be the unofficial hiking capital of Arizona, but nearby Cottonwood is also a nature lover’s dream. This small town of around 12,000 is home to a little-known hiking trail that runs alongside the pristine Verde River. Cottonwood also boasts many incredible restaurants, including the oh-so charming Old Town Red Rooster Cafe. After enjoying a scenic hike, we’ll refuel with a hearty meal for an adventure sure to leave our bellies, hearts, and souls full of small-town charm and gratitude for our beautiful state (and delicious food!). This little town is definitely one of the best hidden gems in Arizona, and we can’t wait for you to check it out.
I don't know about you, but I typically avoid places with the word "jail" in them - but the Jail Trail River Walk near Dead Horse Ranch State Park is an exception.
Paralleling the beautiful Verde River, this easy, 1.6-mile loop (which is so named because there is an old jailhouse at the trailhead) is just minutes from historic Old Town Cottonwood, but it feels like a whole different world.
The trail follows the river downstream, allowing hikers to enter a state of total serenity as they listen to the babbling stream and marvel at the lush greenery surrounding it.
In addition to peace and tranquility, the hike also offers unparalleled birdwatching opportunities as well as educational signposts with information about area wildlife and history.
Mountains in the near distance are visible from the trail, and the views are nothing short of jaw-dropping. The trail does connect with Dead Horse Ranch State Park, so you can either opt to continue on or loop back around into Old Town Cottonwood. Choose your own adventure!
Jail Trail, 1101 N Main St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326, USA
Located right on the corner of Main Street, this quaint and charming eatery is committed to using the freshest ingredients possible to create delicious food that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.
If you got an early start, perhaps you'll arrive while breakfast is still being served (until 11 a.m. on weekdays and noon on weekends). Options include everything from breakfast tacos and burritos to fluffy buttermilk pancakes to bagels and lox.
Have you ever visited Cottonwood, one of the best hidden gems in Arizona? If so, did you embark on the Jail Trail River Walk or eat at the Old Town Red Rooster Cafe? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a nearby train ride, the Verde Canyon Railroad, that leads through one of Arizona’s most stunning landscapes.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
