Prescott National Forest: Arizona's Nature Retreat

• HelloYa'at'eeh
  [yah-ah-tay]
• GoodbyeHágoónee'
  [hah-goo-nay]
• YesAhe'
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• NoDah
  [dah]
• Please/You're welcomeBilasáana
  [bee-lah-sah-nah]
• Thank youAhéhee'
  [ah-hay-hay]
• Excuse me/SorryShí éí
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• How are you?Anííníshní
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• Fine. And you?Yá'át'ééh. K'adóózhí
  [yah-ah-tay kah-doh-zhee]
• Do you speak English?Shima Sani Bizaad yaa bini?
  [shee-mah sah-nee bee-zaad yah bee-nee]
• I don't understandMąąhą' dóó ałchíní
  [mah-nah doh ah-lchee-nee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNaadiidííníshní
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• I don't eat meatNíłch'íi'
  [neel-chee]
• Cheers!T'áá hwó' ají t'éego
  [taa-hwoh ah-jee tay-go]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNaaltsoos
  [nah-ahl-tsohs]

• Help!Áwéé'
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• Go away!Ha'bílá'
  [hah-bee-lah]
• Call the Police!Yá'át'ééh biye'
  [yah-ah-tay bee-yay]
• Call a doctor!Bilasáana yiltsé
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• I'm lostWoláchíí'
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• I'm illNaaltsoos
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• I'd like to buy...Naadiidííníshní
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• I'm just lookingNihe'is
  [nee-hay-ees]
• How much is it?T'aa hojííl?
  [taa hoh-jee-il]
• That's too expensiveHózhóogo naakid
  [hoh-zhoh-go nah-ah-keed]
• Can you lower the price?Jíínít'í?
  [jee-nee-teeh]

• What time is it?Níhaa
  [nee-hah]
• It's one o'clockT'áá hát'éí
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• Half past (10)Naakid t'áá hát'éí bíniit'ą́ą́'
  [nah-ah-keed taa hah-tay-ee bee-nee-tah-nah-nah]
• MorningÁnihí
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• AfternoonNízí
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• EveningT'áá yííniid
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• YesterdayNdaa
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• TodayT'áá
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• TomorrowKéshjéé'
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• 1T'áá
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• 6Hastą́ą́
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• 7Tseebíí
  [tsee-bee]
• 8Tl'oogí
  [tlo-ghee]
• 9Náhást'éí
  [nah-hah-stay-ee]
• 10Neeshjéé'
  [nee-shjay]

• Where's a/the...?Hajíí'
  [hah-jee]
• What's the address?Hóne'aa' níłch'ií'
  [hoh-nay-ah neel-chee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Dóó ádóó shił dóó hazhó'ógo
  [doh ah-doh sheel doh hah-zhoh-go]
• When's the next (bus)?Neeshjéé' łah nishłí
  [nee-shjay lah neesh-lee]
• A ticket (to ....)Naasą́ą́
  [nah-sahn]

Before European settlers arrived, the land now known as Prescott National Forest was inhabited by various Indigenous tribes, including the Yavapai and Apache. These communities thrived on the land, utilizing its rich resources for hunting, gathering, and agriculture. They also left behind a wealth of archaeological sites, including petroglyphs, pottery shards, and ancient dwellings, which provide a glimpse into their vibrant cultures and ways of life.

In 1863, Fort Whipple was established near Prescott to protect settlers from conflicts with Indigenous tribes during the Arizona gold rush. The fort played a significant role in the military presence in the region, eventually becoming the headquarters for the Arizona Territory. Today, the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott offers insights into this era with exhibits on the fort and its impact on the development of the surrounding area.

In the mid-19th century, the discovery of gold in central Arizona led to a rush of prospectors and settlers to the area. This influx spurred the establishment of numerous mining towns within what is now Prescott National Forest. Notable among these were the towns of Walker, Crown King, and Jerome, each experiencing its own boom-and-bust cycle. Remnants of these mining operations, including old mines, equipment, and ghost towns, can still be explored today.

Prescott National Forest was officially established in 1908 by an executive order from President Theodore Roosevelt. The forest was created to conserve the area's natural resources and provide a sustainable supply of timber. Over the years, the forest has grown to encompass over 1.25 million acres of diverse landscapes, from dense pine forests to rugged desert terrain, offering a haven for both wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the most significant events in the history of Prescott National Forest was the Great Fire of 1972. This massive wildfire burned over 17,000 acres of forest land, leading to extensive damage to the ecosystem and prompting changes in forest management practices. The fire highlighted the importance of fire prevention and management, leading to improved strategies that are still in use today to protect the forest and its visitors.

Today, Prescott National Forest is not only a natural treasure but also a cultural hub. It attracts visitors for its recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The forest is also home to events such as the Prescott Frontier Days, which celebrates the area's cowboy heritage with rodeos, parades, and festivities. These cultural events connect the past and present, showcasing the forest's enduring significance to the community and its visitors.

Prescott National Forest is located in north-central Arizona, approximately 100 miles north of Phoenix and 90 miles southwest of Flagstaff. The nearest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). From Phoenix, you can rent a car and take Interstate 17 north to Highway 69, which will lead you directly to Prescott. Alternatively, shuttle services like Groome Transportation offer direct routes from Phoenix to Prescott.

Once in Prescott, you can explore the Prescott National Forest by car, which is the most convenient option. Car rentals are available in Prescott, and the forest has numerous well-maintained roads and trails. For those interested in a more eco-friendly option, there are bike rentals available in Prescott. Public transportation within Prescott is limited, but Prescott Transit Authority offers bus services on specific routes. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available.

The official currency in the United States is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Prescott, including in most restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are plentiful, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas within the forest. Tipping is customary in the U.S., typically 15-20% in restaurants and for other services.

Prescott National Forest is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables in your car, especially in visible areas. While the town of Prescott has a relatively low crime rate, it's wise to be cautious in any unfamiliar areas. Stick to well-marked trails and follow safety guidelines while hiking or camping. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always be vigilant.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Prescott has several medical facilities, including the Yavapai Regional Medical Center. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Prescott where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. If you're venturing deep into the forest, carry a first-aid kit and be aware of the nearest ranger station.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and always bring layers, as temperatures can vary. Avoid wearing open-toed shoes when hiking. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting any religious or historical sites nearby. Public Transport: Do be patient and respectful when using public transportation. Don’t expect extensive public transport coverage within the forest. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' A firm handshake is standard in more formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and visit local diners and cafes. Don’t litter; always use designated trash bins.

To experience Prescott National Forest like a local, visit during the off-peak seasons for fewer crowds and a more serene experience. Engage with local park rangers and staff; they often have invaluable insider tips. Try to attend local events or festivals in Prescott to get a feel for the community. Don’t miss the chance to hike the Thumb Butte Trail or explore the Lynx Lake area, both favorites among locals. For a unique experience, consider horseback riding through the forest.