Life-giving, beautiful, mesmerizing. These are all ways we would probably describe Arizona, but also the sun that draws visitors and new residents each year and that keeps current residents here. Each time those rays emerge over the horizon, it brings hope for another amazing day in our state. Thankfully, the sun also highlights the landscape’s splendid natural beauty. Here are 15 examples of just how much the sun compliments our great state, creating some truly stunning scenery in Arizona.

1. Let’s start with a picturesque view of Monument Valley just as the sun is peeking over the horizon.
Jirka Matousek/Flickr
2. There’s also this peaceful view of the Grand Canyon as the sun hits the sides of the canyon walls.
Steve McClanahan/Flickr
3. Another sunrise at Bell Rock in Sedona. Stunning how the lights show off all the little details.
Scott Taylor/Flickr
4. Here is a beautiful view out at Iron Springs during the morning hours.
Michael Wilson/Flickr
5. Want an artsy photo for your Instagram account? Snap a picture with the sun just like this in the background for an amazing lens flare.
Jared Zimmerman/Flickr
6. Here’s another example of a lens flare with some Arizona plants in Two Guns.
distasteforusernames/Flickr
7. Such a beautiful view of Blue Canyon. Thank you, Sun!
CEBImagery/Flickr

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8. This photo was taken near Alpine and almost looks like a scene from a movie or a magazine photoshoot.
Jesse Kruger/Flickr
9. The sun creates a dramatic look for the Painted Desert here.
velo_city/Flickr
10. Did you know photographers in other parts of the country (and world) wish for this kind of lighting? We get it almost every day. 🙂
Eric Vondy/Flickr
The photographer notes that this was taken along the Salt River.
11. Fun fact: When doing film photography in other areas of the country, I find that I can’t even use a 400-speed film on a partly sunny day without having to push the film one or two stops. In Arizona, I almost always 100 speed.
rickz/Flickr
This photographer is at the Wave, a lovely sight I can’t wait to visit.
12. Antelope Canyon comes alive when the sunlight hits the right spots. Just be patient.
Sri Dhanush K/Flickr
13. The way the sun hits the sides of the rocks here makes for a magical moment at Chiricahua National Monument.
mkelly6000/Flickr
14. And our sunsets? The best of the best.
Tabitha Kaylee Hawk/Flickr
15. There’s no better way to end a hectic day than with a beautiful Arizona sunset in the background. You can’t get that anywhere else.
Durant Weston/Flickr

What is your favorite part of this stunning scenery in Arizona? Do you have any impressive sunny pictures to share? We’d like to hear your thoughts in the comments section. Or, if you’d like to be featured for our Photo of the Day for Arizona, then you can send your photos to submit-AZ@onlyinyourstate.com.

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Stunning Scenery In Arizona

Marisa Roman | March 31, 2021

What are the most picturesque hiking trails in Arizona?

So many of the most scenic places in Arizona can only be captured by way of hiking trails. Arizona has some stunning hikes through the state, whether it’s through the red canyons or the milky blue creek near Havasu. You don’t need to sign up for a long trek to see this stunning beauty either, most of the hikes that have scenic rewards are under five miles! Take Bell Rock Courthouse Butte Loop in Sedona as the perfect example. This four-mile trek has some iconic views throughout the city. Take a look at these 12 hikes under five miles in Arizona that are worth exploring.

Does Arizona have any natural wonders?

Living in Arizona means having access to some truly great natural wonders. Many of these gems you’ve likely seen in books and magazines, but to be honest, even the greatest photos of Arizona can’t even do these hot spots justice. Some of the most popular natural wonders in Arizona include Antelope Canyon, a stunning slot canyon that was created from the erosion of sandstone. Or Chiricahua National Monument, which features a collection of rock spires that look like they emerge straight from the ground!

Are there any good swimming holes in Arizona?

Sure, Arizona might be a landlocked state when it comes to the ocean, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t places where you can spend the day swimming. Beyond popular places like Lake Havasu and Lake Powell, there are other smaller swimming holes that make for staying cool under the summer sun. For instance, Fossil Creek in Arizona has a waterfall swimming hole with the clearest blue water below. Take a look at these swimming holes in Arizona to stay cool.

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