Go Ahead And Add These 12 Stunning Places In Arizona To Your Bucket List
One of the things I absolutely love about living in Arizona is the diversity of our state’s landscapes. Most people tend to have limited views of our state—hot, dry, desert—but we know there’s so much more here, and the most beautiful places in Arizona prove it.
Today, we’re going to honor that diversity and beauty by taking a look at some places in Arizona that you should definitely take the time to visit. It’s a topic we’ve covered before but I think that our state has so many exploration options that you really can’t limit it to one list.
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This wilderness area is located about 50 miles northeast of Tucson. It is a quiet, isolated area that has few daily visitors, making Aravaipa Canyon a great little spot to “unplug” and reflect.
To learn more:Aravaipa Canyon
Beautiful views, hikes, history, and ruins are all located in this park on the Navajo Nation. If you haven't visited before, check out the public White House trail which will guide you down into the canyon and offer a peek at the old Anasazi ruins. Just remember that people live in the area, so don't go wandering off without a guide!
To learn more:Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Who would want to miss out on this view? Chiricahua National Monument not only is home to these incredible hoodoos but also plenty of wildlife and an old homestead, Faraway Ranch.
To learn more:Chiricahua National Monument
There are numerous ways to enjoy and explore the river: swimming, fishing, kayaking, white water rafting, riding a steamboat, or even just admiring it from the shore.
Ever wanted to tour an old mine? Copper Queen down in Bisbee offers a spectacular (and safe) option with former miners leading the way.
To learn more:Copper Queen Mine
It looks almost too good to be true, right? This little spot is found on the Colorado River a few miles south of Lake Mead. When the light hits the water just right, the river water appears a bright, emerald green.
Located just outside of Leupp on the Navajo Nation, this seasonal waterfall flows with chocolate-colored waters. Plan your trip accordingly because they only run after the winter snow melts or following heavy rainfall. Additionally, a permit is not required to visit and hike Grand Falls.
The world's best preserved crater lives right here in Arizona so if astronomy and geology are an interest, you have to see this.
To learn more:Meteor Crater in Arizona
We share this park with Utah but luckily the famous mittens are located on the Arizona side. These are a must-see but don't forget to check out other areas of the park because they are just as stunning.
To learn more:Monument Valley Tribal Park
Located in the Sedona area, Red Rock State Park has plenty of beautiful trails, views, and watering spots to refresh during your travels.
To learn more:Red Rock State Park
This entire area is filled with surreal red sandstone views that you really shouldn't miss. Obtaining a pass to walk through The Wave is based on a lottery so you know this is a rare treat.
To learn more:Vermillion Cliffs National Monument
Looking to combine beautiful views with a hike and history lesson? Check out one of the trails at Walnut Canyon where you can walk past centuries old ruins in addition to the impressive canyon scenery.
To learn more:Walnut Canyon National Monument
Those were some pretty incredible views, right? If you’ve visited any of these places before, be sure to share your experiences with us and your fellow Arizonans!
Address: Winkelman, AZ 85192, USA
Address: Chinle, AZ, USA
Address: E Bonita Canyon Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643, USA
Address: Colorado River
Address: Copper Queen Mine, Arizona 86329, USA
Address: Willow Beach, AZ 86445, USA
Address: Grand Falls, Arizona, Arizona 86035, USA
Address: Interstate 40, Winslow, AZ 86047, USA
Address: Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536, USA
Address: 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
Address: Marble Canyon, AZ 86036, USA
Address: 3 Walnut Canyon Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Most Beautiful Places In Arizona
December 18, 2020
Leah
What are the most well-known parks in Arizona?
If you plan on traveling to Arizona, here are some of the top-rated destinations that are considered must-sees. It almost goes without saying that the Grand Canyon National Park should be at the top of your list. It’s not called the “Grand Canyon State” for no reason, after all. Millions of visitors take a trip to see it every year, and it’s one of the most well-known natural wonders in the world. The Petrified Forest National Park is another popular park in Arizona. The petrified wood of prehistoric trees is fascinating to visitors, plus the natural scenery of the area is beautiful.
What are the most unique things to do in Arizona?
There are so many things to see in Arizona, it’s hard to list them all. There are a few things that you can only truly do within this state. The famous Antelope Canyon, a place that’s been the muse of many photographers over the years, is in Arizona. You can visit it yourself if you can get one of the coveted reservations for a guided hike through it. In a similar vein, one of the most iconic desert sights, the Mitten Buttes, is in Monument Valley in Arizona. Those don’t require a guided hike, you can see them for yourself just by heading to the area. They’re amazing in person and it’s pretty cool just to say you’ve been to those famous buttes.
What underrated places in Arizona should I visit?
Check out these scenic places in Arizona that are lesser-known, but worth discovering. There is a lava river cave you can explore for yourself. Formed by lava thousands of years ago, today it’s actually rather chilly and fun to visit. Everyone knows about the Grand Canyon, but one of the other biggest canyons in Arizona isn’t quite so popular. Sycamore Canyon is located in Verde Valley and is absolutely stunning. With it being less trafficked than the other big canyon, you’ll find it to be quiet and perfect for hiking, camping, and more.
Address: Winkelman, AZ 85192, USA
Address: Chinle, AZ, USA
Address: E Bonita Canyon Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643, USA
Address: Colorado River
Address: Copper Queen Mine, Arizona 86329, USA
Address: Willow Beach, AZ 86445, USA
Address: Grand Falls, Arizona, Arizona 86035, USA
Address: Interstate 40, Winslow, AZ 86047, USA
Address: Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536, USA
Address: 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
Address: Marble Canyon, AZ 86036, USA
Address: 3 Walnut Canyon Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA
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Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
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