Monica Spencer
Monica Spencer is a Dine (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest, born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix. She brings a deeply rooted Indigenous cultural perspective to her coverage of the Southwest for Only In Your State. Monica is also a photo editor for The Mesa Legend and a former staff writer for The Navajo Post — making her one of the most credentialed regional voices in her area.
Embark On This Underrated Cave Trail For An Easy Day Trip Near Santa Fe, New Mexico
Cave Creek Trail in New Mexico offers a moderately difficult hike featuring creeks, caves, and wildflowers in the Pecos Wilderness.
11 Easy Hikes In Arizona Almost Anyone Can Do
Discover some of the easiest and most scenic hiking trails in Arizona suitable for the whole family.
You Can Visit New Mexico’s National Parks For Free On These Days In 2023
New Mexico offers several national parks with free admission on select days in 2023, showcasing the state's natural beauty and historical significance.
This Is The Most Hippie Town In New Mexico And You Need To Visit
Madrid, a former coal mining town in New Mexico, has transformed into a charming artist enclave and hippie commune.
The Country’s Deadliest Prison Riot Took Place Right Here In New Mexico Over 40 Years Ago
The 1980 New Mexico State Penitentiary riot in Santa Fe was the deadliest prison riot in U.S. history, resulting in 33 inmate deaths and extensive destruction.
17 Must-See Places in Arizona To Experience the Old West
The covered wagons, steakhouses, and classic frontier saloons will make you feel transported to another time.
There’s No Better Place To Be Than These 3 Hot Springs In Arizona
Discover some of the best hot springs in Arizona, including those in Tonopah and near Kingman, for a relaxing escape.
Nestled in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains, Lake Katherine Has Some of the Clearest Water in New Mexico
Isolated and accessible by a grueling hike, Lake Katherine in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is one of the clearest lakes in New Mexico.
These 20 Gorgeous Lakes In Arizona Are Demanding Your Attention
Arizona offers a variety of beautiful lakes for fishing, boating, and other water activities, both natural and man-made.
The 13 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Arizona
Discover some of the best day trips in Arizona, featuring unique natural wonders, historic sites, and relaxing retreats.
12 Unforgettable New Mexico Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year
Explore 12 unique and exciting day trips in New Mexico, from scenic drives to historic sites and nature retreats.
If You Didn’t Know About These 8 Swimming Holes In Arizona, They’re A Must Visit
Discover some of the best swimming holes in Arizona to cool off during the summer.
9 Surprising Firsts That Arizona Can Proudly Claim
Arizona has many unique firsts, including the first official rodeo and the first state to provide bilingual education.
Here Are 8 Unique Day Trips In Arizona That Are An Absolute Must-Do
Discover eight unique and exciting day trips in Arizona, ranging from wine tours to exploring caverns and historic sites.
Here Are 6 Arizona Swimming Holes That Will Make Your Summer Memorable
Discover some of the best swimming holes in Arizona to cool off during the summer.
