Joseph City Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about visiting Joseph City, Arizona, from must-see attractions to where to stay and what to eat. Plan your trip today!


Introduction to Joseph City

Nestled in the northern part of Arizona, Joseph City is a small town that boasts a rich history and an abundance of outdoor activities. Founded in the late 1800s, the town was named after Mormon leader Joseph Smith and is steeped in Mormon history. Today, Joseph City offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions that make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Arizona.

List of Places to Visit in Joseph City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in history and culture, Joseph City has plenty of museums and historical places to visit. Here are a few must-see attractions:

  • Historic Joseph City Museum: This museum offers a fascinating look at the town’s Mormon pioneer heritage, with exhibits and artifacts that date back to the 1800s.
  • Little Colorado River Navajo Tribal Park: This park features ancient ruins of the Navajo people, including a 700-year-old pueblo and a 300-room cliff dwelling.

Natural Attractions of Joseph City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re more of an outdoors person, Joseph City has plenty to offer in the way of natural attractions. Here are a few outdoor activities to try:

  • Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: Explore the rugged terrain of this volcanic field, with hikes that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Wapatki National Monument: Discover the ancient Native American pueblos and petroglyphs that pepper this scenic area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Joseph City

Joseph City has a variety of hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic nature trails to challenging mountain climbs, here are some of the best routes:

  • Eagle Mountain Trail: This moderate trail covers approximately 5.5 miles and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Bonito Park Trail System: This system offers a variety of trails for hiking and mountain biking, with options for beginners and more advanced riders.

Best Things to Do in Joseph City: Activities and Tours

No matter what your interests may be, Joseph City has an activity or tour for you. Here are some of the best things to do in Joseph City:

  • Horseback Riding Tours: Explore the scenic countryside of Joseph City on horseback, with trails that range from beginner-friendly to advanced.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a breathtaking tour of Joseph City from high above, with hot air balloon rides that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Week-Long Itinerary for Joseph City

With so much to see and do in Joseph City, it can be tough to fit everything into one trip. Here’s a week-long itinerary that covers some of the best sights and activities in the area:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Historic Joseph City Museum and learn about the town’s Mormon pioneer history
Day 2 Hike the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and take in the scenic views
Day 3 Take a horseback riding tour of Joseph City
Day 4 Explore the ancient ruins at Little Colorado River Navajo Tribal Park
Day 5 Try a hot air balloon ride for stunning views of the area
Day 6 Take a guided tour of the Wapatki National Monument
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Joseph City

No trip to Joseph City is complete without experiencing the local food and drink scene. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Navajo Tacos: A traditional Navajo dish that features frybread topped with beans, ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
  • Arizona-style BBQ: This regional BBQ style features slow-cooked meats that are seasoned with a blend of southwestern spices.

Local Beverages

  • Arizona Wine: The state of Arizona is home to a variety of award-winning wineries, producing wines that range from crisp whites to full-bodied reds.
  • Mexican Beer: With Joseph City’s close proximity to the Mexican border, it’s no surprise that Mexican beer is a popular local beverage choice.

Where to Stay in Joseph City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a modern hotel, Joseph City has plenty of lodging options to choose from. Here are a few recommendations:

  • La Quinta Inn & Suites: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and amenities such as a hot tub, outdoor pool, and free breakfast.
  • The Lighthouse Inn Bed & Breakfast: This cozy bed and breakfast is housed in a historic building and features comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.

What to Buy in Joseph City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring home, Joseph City has plenty of options. Here are a few local products to consider:

  • Navajo-Inspired Art: From Native American pottery to woven rugs, there are plenty of unique and beautiful pieces of art to choose from.
  • Arizona-Sourced Honey: With the abundance of wildflowers in the area, honey made from local sources is a popular and delicious choice.

Local Culture and Customs of Joseph City

As a small town with a rich history and strong Mormon influence, Joseph City has a unique and vibrant culture. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including dress codes for religious events and practices.

Best Time to Visit Joseph City

The best time to visit Joseph City is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the natural beauty of the area is on full display. The summer can be hot, with temperatures often in the triple digits, while winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional snowfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Joseph City

To make the most of your trip to Joseph City, here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore the natural beauty of the area, including the national monuments and local parks.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages, including Arizona wine and Navajo tacos.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be disrespectful of local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting religious sites or events.
  • Don’t underestimate the weather - be prepared for heat in the summer and potential snowfall in the winter.

Safety and Health

Safety in Joseph City

Joseph City is a relatively safe town, with low rates of crime. However, visitors should still exercise caution and take common sense safety precautions, such as locking car doors and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Joseph City

Like many rural areas, access to healthcare in Joseph City can be limited. Visitors should be sure to bring any necessary medications and consider purchasing travel insurance in case of emergencies.

Getting to Joseph City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Joseph City

The closest major airport to Joseph City is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, which is approximately 50 miles away. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is another option, with a distance of approximately 170 miles.

Bus Stations Near Joseph City

Greyhound offers bus service to nearby Winslow, Arizona, which is approximately 20 miles from Joseph City.

Other Options

Renting a car is the most popular option for getting to and around Joseph City. However, visitors should be aware that some of the area’s natural attractions may require four-wheel drive or other specialized vehicles.

How to Get Around in Joseph City

While a car is the most convenient way to get around Joseph City and the surrounding area, there are some other transportation options to consider. Local taxis and ride-sharing services are available, and many of the local tour companies offer transportation as part of their packages.

Where to Go Next from Joseph City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your Arizona adventure after leaving Joseph City, here are a few nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Grand Canyon National Park: One of the most iconic natural wonders in the world is just a few hours’ drive from Joseph City.
  • Sedona: Known for its stunning red rock formations and picturesque landscapes, Sedona is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike.

Conclusion

From exploring the area’s rich history to taking in the natural beauty of the national monuments, Joseph City offers a unique blend of culture and natural beauty that’s perfect for travelers of all types. Plan your trip today and discover everything this charming Arizona town has to offer!