The Scenic Road Trip That Will Make You Fall In Love With The Beauty Of Arizona All Over Again
Natural wonders in Arizona aren’t exactly few and far between. After all, our state is home to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. For those of us who have lived here a long time, however, it’s easy to take Arizona’s natural beauty for granted. If you’re in need of a reminder, embark on this unforgettable road trip to five of the most scenic natural wonders in Arizona. From ancient slot canyons to turquoise waterfalls, this 7.5-hour trip will make you fall in love with the Grand Canyon State all over again.
Feel free to adjust the Google Maps route for the trip as you see fit.
Monument Valley has a certain mystique that one must experience to fully understand. Among the most photographed places in the country, this enchanting destination on the Arizona-Utah border features three iconic rock formations, known as buttes, that tower up to 1,000 feet into the sky. You can take a scenic drive around the valley in your own vehicle, but actually going down into it (which we highly recommend doing!) requires a local guide. More information on the Navajo Nation Parks website.
Also a photographer's paradise, Antelope Canyon is tucked away in the small town of Page, known for its abundance of outdoor activities. Openings at the top of this ancient slot canyon allow sunbeams to stream in, creating pillars of light that dance like shadow puppets. You'll also need a tour guide to enter Antelope Canyon, and only a small number of people are allowed in each day. Visit the Navajo Nation Parks website for a list of tour operators.
Page is also home to Horseshoe Bend, another of Arizona's most recognizable natural wonders. Named for its striking resemblance to a horseshoe, this meander of the Colorado River boasts deep blue waters and amazing sunsets. Plus, all it takes to get there is a quick, 3/4-mile hike! Learn more on the National Park Service website.
It's almost insulting to even include the Grand Canyon because it so obviously deserves a spot on the list. There are no words to describe her all-encompassing beauty, so rather than make a futile attempt, we'll just take this time to bask in her glory. Living in Arizona, it's easy for us to take the Grand Canyon for granted, but people travel from all over the world to visit the park and gaze out into its vast expanse. More information on the National Park Service website.
One of the most grueling hikes you'll ever take pays off in a big way, leading to a nearly 100-foot waterfall that spills down a mossy cliffside into a turquoise pool below. Havasu Falls is the most famous, but it isn't the only waterfall on the trail - there's also Beaver Falls, and the even taller Mooney Falls, which towers at a height of almost 200 feet. You must make a reservation to visit the Havasupai Indian Reservation and embark on the hike - permits typically sell out upwards of a year in advance, so keep that in mind when planning your trip. Visit the Havasupai Reservations website to learn more.
Would you take this road trip to some of the most scenic natural wonders in Arizona? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more jaw-dropping places in Arizona’s great outdoors.
Address: Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536, USA
Address: Antelope Canyon, Arizona 86040, USA
Address: Horseshoe Bend, Arizona 86040, USA
Address: Grand Canyon, Arizona 86052, USA
Address: Havasu Falls, Arizona 86435, USA
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Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
