10 ‘Hills’ Every Arizonan Is Willing To Die On

From the unending rivalry between Arizona State University and the University of Arizona, to the firm opinion that Sonoran dogs are the best hot dogs in the U.S., there are many things about life in this desert-laden state that most residents can agree on. Arizonans know how to beat the heat, celebrate their version of "sweater weather," and survive a dust storm like no other — all while eating delicious Mexican-inspired food, of course.

But what is living in Arizona really like? Here are 10 of the top "hills" everyone from the Grand Canyon state is willing to die on.

1. Sonoran Dogs Are Just Regular Hot Dogs

There's just something about the combination of a bacon-wrapped hot dog, pinto beans, and all the other fixings ... and don't even get us started on that fluffy bolillo bun that holds it all together. Find out where you can get the best Sonoran hot dogs in Arizona, no matter where in the state you live or visit. We personally love El Güero Canelo, which has three convenient Tucson locations.

2. Desert Heat Tops Humidity Any Day

Another interesting tidbit about life in Arizona? Summer nights actually aren't too bad. The dry heat can lend itself to some slightly cooler evenings under the stars — much better than feeling like we're wrapped in a wet, humid blanket. Thankfully, there are many ways to beat the heat in Arizona, like taking a dip in Lake Powell.

3. We Look Forward to Monsoon Season

In the summer months in Arizona, a strong change in wind flow, also known as the North American Monsoon, brings on some pretty spectacular thunderstorms. Not only do these gusts of wind and rain provide some much-needed relief from the scorching heat, but they also produce lightning that's truly amazing to watch. Just don't get caught in a downpour!

It's rare, but there have also been some Arizona winter storms that even bring on snow.

4. There Are Two Camps: 'Haboob' or 'Dust Storm'

Each side has its strong opinion on the name, but "haboobs" and "dust storms" are the same thing: A thick, ominous cloud of desert dust that's often kicked up by wind and thunderstorms. They happen during monsoon season (June-September), and for native Arizonans, it only takes one glance at the sky to know one's headed our way. The National Weather Service will also put out alerts.

What do you call these wild weather events?

5. Parking Far Away Is Worth the Shade

Sure, we're accustomed to our steering wheels feeling like they've been dipped in hot lava, but most of the time, we prefer to avoid this scenario. Outdoor temperatures can reach the mid-100s in summer, making the inside of your parked car feel way hotter. Any opportunity for shade is worth the walk to the restaurant or bar.

6. We Root for Sun Devils or Wildcats—Not Both

The ongoing rivalry between the Arizona State University Sun Devils and the University of Arizona Wildcats is a very real part of life in the Grand Canyon State. We either chant "fork 'em" or "bear down" at sporting events, but never both. Who do you root for?

Check out the other surefire signs you attended college in Arizona.

7. Life's Better Without Daylight Saving

Losing an hour of sleep every spring? Not us—even if it's just for one night. For the past 40 years, Arizona has been exempt from Daylight Saving Time because of its extreme heat. So, instead of turning our clocks back or forward (and showing up groggy or late for work the next day), we stick to the same schedule all year long. And we think the rest of the U.S. should join us.

8. Anything Below 75 degrees Is 'Sweater Weather'

We'll admit one of the most interesting facts about Arizona: those of us who live down south aren't equipped to deal with the cold — but can you blame us? When it's triple digits for half of the year, we're basically reptiles. So, anything below 75 degrees Fahrenheit feels nice and cool for us. Learn about a time when it got very cold in Arizona.

9. Arizona Winters Are the Best

The summer's not for everyone, we'll admit, but wintertime? That's when Arizona shines. Northern mountain towns like Flagstaff get beautiful, powdery snowfall between mid-November to April, and Sedona (about 45 minutes south of Flagstaff) will get a rare, yet magical, light dusting. Or you can stay south in Tucson or Sierra Vista for sunny bliss.

Find out more about winter in Arizona here.

10. Our Mexican Food Is Top-Tier

If it didn't come from a longstanding, family-owned Arizona hole-in-the-wall, we don't want it. Most Arizonans can agree on this fact. (The dishes other states try to pass off as Mexican are pure blasphemy!) Consider visiting Tucson for some of the best Mexican food in the state.

Which of these opinions about Arizona life do you agree with? Is there any local lure we missed? To find out, consider planning a trip to the Grand Canyon State. Whether you're a local or a native, Visit Arizona is a great resource for day-trip ideas, lodging, and accommodations. Also, check out the Only In Your State itinerary planner for fun places to explore!