Last week, we published a story about autumn getaways in Arizona that has me craving some time in the outdoors. 

I’m planning to get in some of the typical Phoenix hikes (Piestewa Peak, South Mountain, etc.), but I’d like to explore some parts of the state I still have yet to see.

The Aspen leaves are at full fall colors on the San Francisco Peaks near the Arizona Snowbowl on Oct. 21, 2025, near Flagstaff, Ariz. (Rob Schumacher/The Republic via Reuters Connect)

In a few weeks, I’ll be accompanying some family to see the Grand Canyon, and I can’t wait for that. It’ll be my fourth time there, and it still hasn’t gotten old—especially when I’m with people who will be experiencing it for the first time. 

I always try to hit Flagstaff at least once in the last half of the year to experience some “real” fall and winter. But I know there are a lot of other spots that can scratch that itch, too. 

What outdoorsy spots would you recommend for a fall or winter visit? Let me know!

Your thoughts about voting could inspire someone else.

Tell us what’s motivating you in a short, selfie-style video, and we may feature it in our newsletter or on social.*

(Sending us a quick video also enters you into a giveaway* for a chance to win $25!) Tell us why you’re voting →

Falling prices aren’t making metro Phoenix condominiums more affordable as rising HOA fees, insurance costs and mortgage rates squeeze buyers and owners.

It takes a lot of time to stay on top of the news, so here’s a quick roundup of stories about renting and living in Phoenix.

Looking to meet new people and build community? Start with these Phoenix neighborhood events this month.

Here are some of the biggest Arizona events this weekend, from Dia de los Muertos celebrations to a hot air balloon festival.

Heads up early voters—it’s now too late to mail back your ballot, but that doesn’t mean you have to sit out the election. Just drop it off at a drop box or voting center by 7 p.m. on Nov. 3.

You can also still vote in person on Nov. 3, even if you received a ballot in the mail. Just make sure to bring ID!

On Monday, we talked about Prop 144 and how it could change voting by mail in Arizona. 

I asked what you thought about it, and here’s what you said: 

💬 “I think valid points were made but there are more layers to this issue. No doubt mail-in and at-home ballot completion should remain and be (IMO) a primary option for everyone in the USA. That said I do think we need to have adult discussions that are non-partisan about how to validate people for voting. We need this to protect mail-in ballots long-term.” — Tony R.

Keep sending in your comments—I’ll post them to the website later today if I get some more. 

Here’s what’s going on around Arizona this weekend—plus a map so you can see where everything is at!

Local news doesn’t fund itself.

National outlets can’t cover every story that matters in Arizona. That’s why everything you read in The Copper Courier is focused on our communities and the issues affecting the people who live here. Readers like you keep that reporting going.

Even a small monthly gift keeps The Copper Courier free for everyone in Arizona, no paywalls, ever.

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Jessica Swarner with stories from Robert Gundran, Sahara Sajjadi, and Ellery Weil. It was edited by Crystal Niforos.

The Copper Courier is free for everyone. Your support makes our work possible.

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. VOTING, REGISTERING TO VOTE, OR PROOF OF VOTING IS NOT REQUIRED. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. and D.C., 18+. Entry Period: 12:00 a.m. ET 10/19/26 – 11:59 p.m. ET 10/29/26. Void where prohibited. Subject to Official Rules. Sponsor: Courier Newsroom, Inc.