When to Go to Southern Arizona

As you might expect, the desert areas are popular in winter, and the cooler mountain areas are more heavily visited in summer. If you're seeking outdoor adventure, spring and fall are the best times to visit this part of the state. The region is in full bloom by late March and early April, and spring and fall are the peaks of birding season.

Festivals and Events

January

Wings Over Willcox. This birding extravaganza the third week in January is highlighted by the morning flights of thousands of wintering sandhill cranes lifting off from the Willcox Playa. 520/384-2272. www.wingsoverwillcox.com.

February

Cochise Cowboy Poetry and Music Gathering. In Sierra Vista, this festival in early February showcases Western culture, history, and folklore. 520/417-6960. www.cowboypoets.com.

October

The Rex Allen Days. A rodeo and Western music and dance fill the first weekend in October, in Willcox. 520/384-2272. www.rexallendays.org.

Helldorado Days. The third weekend of October, history comes alive in Tombstone with gunfights in the streets, a parade, and an 1880s fashion show. 888/457-3929. www.tombstonechamber.com.