Beat the Heat … Head to Prescott Part 1

During our hottest months, I thought I’d write a weekly post about a getaway within the state that residents can visit to beat the heat!

Although, I’ve been to Prescott many times, I never seem to tire of its rolling hills, Midwest meets Old West attitude and great art galleries and restaurants.  But on my most recent road trip, I opted to take a more leisurely and scenic route that took me through Wickenburg, Congress, Yarnell, Peeples Valley and Wilhoit.

My main motivation for taking the back roads was to see Frog Rock, an actual rock painted green by Sara Perkins, a homesteader’s wife, in 1928.  It has become quite the landmark ever since. The town’s folk of Congress, AZ have kept it green to this day!

From Congress driving on Highway 89 is a most magnificent drive up winding roads that take you to Yarnell, elevation 4,850.  The temperature dropped by 10 degrees.  That’s what I’m talking about!  Peeples Valley is the next town with green pastures and Cottonwood trees where horses and cattle graze.  Next is Wilhoit, population 836.  Another gain in elevation is evident by the pinon pines and the winding mountain roads.

Eventually, we entered Prescott the “back way” by Thumb Butte. The temperature in Prescott that day was 87 degrees.  The longer drive to experience the scenic route was well worth it.  And getting there was half the fun!

Stay tuned for the second part of this trip where I offer tips for things to see and do in Prescott.

Driving Directions:  Take I17N to 74 West.  You will meet 60 and head Northwest 10 miles to Wickenburg.  From downtown Wickenburg take Highway 89 to Congress and stay on 89 through Yarnell, Peeples Valley, Wilhoit to Prescott.