Of all the states in the union, Arizona is one of the most famous for its truly breathtaking natural beauty. Although the spectacular deserts and the Grand Canyon are best known, over a quarter of the northern part of the state enjoys moderate temperatures and magnificent forests.

One of the last territories to become a state, Arizona only joined the union in 1912. Today 85 percent of the state is still publicly owned forest and parkland, state trust land and Indigenous Indian reservations.

Arizona has become a growing destination for retirees from the northern states and Canada attracted by the mild winter climate. The 1960s saw the establishment of retirement communities which continue to grow in size and popularity.

• Arizona is the sixth largest state in the union and is home to over seven million people. Phoenix, the capital, and Tucson have developed large, sprawling suburban areas.
• The Four Corners Monument (where the states of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah meet) is, despite its remote location, a popular tourist attraction.
• Grand Canyon National Park is considered one of the world's seven natural wonders and was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979.
• The Navajo Nation (portions in Arizona, New Mexico and Utah, with the seat of government in Window Rock, Arizona) is the largest Indian reservation in the country, with nearly 400,000 citizens.
• The boom-and-bust copper mining industry has left hundreds of ghost towns across the state. Tombstone, known for its legendary outlaws and lawmen, is one of the most popular attractions for those nostalgic for the Western cowboy experience.

From skiing in the north to the stunning beauty of desert vistas in the south, Arizona's richness and diversity of natural beauty offers something for everyone in this fascinating state.

Jacqueline Hope Raynor lives and works in Toronto. This is her first book.

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