While New England gets most of the credit when it comes to a spectacular display of colorful foliage in the fall, there are a few places in Arizona that also offer beautiful fall hues. If you're intent on exploring this great state of ours, you may want to try one scenic spot that's little-known and you may have it all to yourself when you go. Aravaipa Canyon is where you can discover fall colors in Arizona.

Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness encompasses more than 19,000 acres in southeastern Arizona. Remote and rugged, it's practically an unknown area to many living in the state.

Between towering cliffs, a gorge, forests, and vast desert landscapes, this wilderness area is an enchanting place to explore.

And what better time to visit than during the fall when the leaves start to change colors? Late November through early December might just be the best time of the season to catch the kaleidoscope of colorful hues here.

Among the trees found within Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness are cottonwood, sycamore, willow, walnut, and alder. With a mix of forest trees, the colorful display during the fall is nothing short of spectacular.

Take a hike and discover a dreamy landscape filled with fall color. This is such a special place to explore no matter what time of year but even more so during the fall months.

As you walk through Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness in the fall, keep your eyes peeled, too, for bighorn sheep that call this place home.

Have you been to Aravaipa Canyon to see fall colors in Arizona in past years? Do you have another favorite spot for leaf peeping in the state? Let us know!

To learn more about Aravaipa Canyon, a little-known destination in Arizona, check out Recreation.gov. You will need to secure a permit before you go. Once you do, check out AllTrails+ for some hikes within that wilderness area.

Where & When To See Fall Foliage In Arizona

Arizona is beautiful all year long but there is something inspiring when the fall foliage makes its appearance. If you are like me and anxiously wondering when fall foliage is expected to peak each year in the Grand Canyon State, you can expect that higher elevation areas such as Yavapai and Pima Counties will enjoy vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds from mid-September through mid-October. As October approaches, you will begin to see colors change in counties such as Apache and Navajo and the colors will be in full force near Halloween. By the middle of November, other areas around the state will reach peak fall foliage. This means you have most of October to enjoy the colorful views.

So, where can I find the best fall foliage in Arizona? It may surprise you but there are many destinations that completely transform during the autumn months. Some of our favorite places to view fall foliage in Arizona include:

• Arizona Snowbowl
• Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Superior
• Kachina Trail, near Flagstaff
• Payson
• Prescott
• Oak Creek Canyon, near Sedona

Know Before You Go

Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness is truly a unique destination in the Grand Canyon State. Because of its rare characteristics and fragile environment, if you plan to hike, hunt, or explore this area, a permit is required. You can learn more about these permits on the Bureau of Land Management website. Also, keep in mind that to reach most trailheads in the area, a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended and the maximum length of stay is two nights.

Additionally, because this is a rugged and remote area, there are no services nearby, no designated campsites, etc. You will want to come fully prepared with food and all necessary gear, including gear for possible water crossings.