Escape to a winter haven

January 24, 2010|Hilary Nangle, Globe Correspondent

Even those who embrace winter are pining for a bit of sunshine and warmth about now. Here are three destinations ideal for an escape.

Desert hiking in Cave Creek, Ariz.

About 45 minutes north of Phoenix, where Scottsdale’s tony suburbs cede to Sonoran desert sands, is Cave Creek, a funky outpost with a cowboy twang. In contrast to Scottsdale’s fancy boutiques and name-store malls, Cave Creek offers a frontier town and artsy flavor.

Cave Creek’s western heritage is well documented in the local history museum, with exhibits on prospectors and mining, cowboys and Indians, and desert flora and fauna. Winter temperatures, which hover in the 50s to 60s, are ideal for hiking to see Hohokam sites and petroglyphs. “The area was once a haven for gold miners, so you’ll see remnants of that in the hills,’’ says Jackie Dishner, author of “Backroads & Byways of Arizona.’’

One of her favorite hikes is the Jewel of the Creek Preserve in the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. “It’s located in a desert wash that crosses the creek. On one side of the creek you’ll see a mesquite bosque [Spanish for forest], and on the other side a field of saguaros and other desert plant life. If you get an early start, you might see coyotes, javelinas, or rattlesnakes.’’

Be wary of the cholla cactus, she cautions: “It just takes a quick and light rub against one of those little balls of furry white prickers to have it stick.’’

A bright spot amid the local dining options, which go by names such as Horny Toad, Buffalo Chip Saloon, and Big Earl’s Greasy Eats, is the splurge-worthy Binkley’s.

For homestyle comfort in a budget-friendly B&B, book a room at Full Circle Ranch (877-465-7570, www.fullcircleranch.com, winter rates $160-$260). For full service, complete with golf course and spa, stay at The Boulders (888-579-2631, www.theboulders.com, winter rates begin at $239), a sprawling resort set amid impressive red rocks in neighboring Carefree.

Book a direct flight from Boston to Phoenix, then rent a car.

Golfing in St. George, Utah

St. George may be best known as home to Zion National Park, but there are 12 golf courses within a 15-minute drive. “People are amazed at how good the golf is here at such an affordable price,’’ says Randy Cassidy, an avid golfer and former resident.