The Verde River flows down through the canyon before and slowly across the plains of the Verde Valley. Named by Spanish explorers, Verde Valley means "Green Valley in Spanish. The area has long been a magnet for both wildlife and people. Today, the valley is one of Arizona's richest agricultural and ranching regions and is quickly gaining popularity with retirees.
The first people to live in the area were the Sinagua people. Sinagua ruins can still be seen at Tuzigoot and Montezuma national monuments. This valley is also the site of the most scenic railroad excursion in the state.
