In this series, real people share their insights about experiencing Arizona. From revered hiking trails and their favorite locally owned shops, these travelers tell all.
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As founder and CEO of NativesOutdoors, Len Necefer is a self-described scholar, entrepreneur and advocate who “passionately bridges the gap between environmental sustainability and Indigenous knowledge.”
“My role at NativesOutdoors means I wear a lot of hats,” Necefer says. “Part-time start-up founder, part-time outdoor athlete, part-time manager and part-time filmmaker.”
Necefer launched the organization as a Native-owned creative and athletic collective with three main avenues of work: storytelling and filmmaking; consulting; and design. Necefer and his team have developed feature films, commercials and documentaries, consulted with companies, government and nonprofit agencies, and supported companies in design and product development.
“NativesOutdoors began at a conference in Las Vegas,” Necefer explains. “I started an Instagram account and it has evolved into the company we are today. In many respects, we have taken an approach of continual evolution, responding to opportunities we see, and most importantly, opportunities for the folks on our team.”
Before NativesOutdoors, Necefer, an avid climber and skier, earned his PhD in Engineering and Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon University, then worked for the U.S. Department of Energy and was a Professor at the University of Arizona.
Though he’s lived all over the country, Necefer considers the years growing up in Northern Arizona’s Canyon de Chelly as the most formative of his life. Now he calls Tucson home, getting out and about to explore the state whenever he can — one rock wall or ski slope at a time.
Read on for Len Necefer’s Arizona travel recommendations.
Best Spot to Watch the Sunset
Atop a peak if you can get to it!
Favorite Hiking Trail
I’m not much of a hiker as a pursuit in itself. Usually I’m hiking to get climbing objectives or ski lines. The approach and climb of Baboquivari Peak in Southern Arizona and backcountry skiing in the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff are some of the most memorable.
Arizona Food Everyone Should Try
In Southern Arizona, salsa made from chiltepin [a Sonoran chile] is probably one of the more unique things I’ve tried.
Best Local Shop
I’m a big fan of Campfire Cycling here in Tucson. They’re a specialty bike shop focusing on bikepacking.
Favorite Way to Get on the Water
Skiing is a frozen form of water, so that would be first. When it melts, I’m on a packraft.
Best Climbing
There’s too many to choose from — which is a good thing. In my backyard, Mount Lemmon has plenty of options, and for bigger adventures, Cochise Stronghold.
Favorite Place to Ski
I’m a big fan of backcountry skiing so if there’s enough snow and the avalanche conditions are safe enough, you’ll find me outside the resort in Mount Lemmon or the San Francisco Peaks Wilderness.
Favorite Arizona Restaurant
Living in Tucson, there’s too many to choose from!
Best Hike for Beginners
Page Rimview Trail near Page.
Most Scenic Place in Arizona
The entire state? It’s honestly so hard to choose given the variety of scenic landscapes. I’ve spent a lot of time across the state and each place is spectacular. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a bad sunset or sunrise view in Arizona.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this sacred and ancient land — from the rim and inside the canyon.
About the Author
Jessica Dunham
Jessica Dunham is a travel, food and fitness writer whose work has been published in PHOENIX Magazine, Runner's World, Phoenix New Times, Valley Guide, Phoenix Travel Guide, Modern Luxury Scottsdale and more. She is passionate about all things Arizona, especially spontaneous Saturday daytrips around the state. She can be reached at dunham-media.com.
