Posted in Arizona
September 15, 2020
11 Of The Most Beautiful Fall Destinations In Arizona
Fall in Arizona is a truly enchanting time, with so many magical places to explore. From the Snowbowl to Apple Annie’s and everywhere in-between, here are the 11 most beautiful autumn destinations to visit this year in Arizona.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
At just under three miles long, this easy, short-and-sweet trail is one of the most iconic fall destinations in Arizona. You haven't lived until you've hiked through a grove of brilliantly yellow aspens! You'll find the trail on the western slope of the San Francisco Peaks near the Snowbowl. More information here.
Each fall, the Verde Canyon Railroad holds their ever-popular Fall Colors Tour. On board a historic train car, you'll whiz past eye-popping foliage that offers a stark contrast to the lofty red rocks surrounding them. The ride takes place in October and November. More information here.
Address: 300 North Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ 86324
Address: 300 North Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ 86324
Perhaps even more renowned than the Aspen Nature Lollipop Trail is West Fork Trail. This 7.2-mile adventure features some of the most striking fall colors across the entire state, in a vast array of breathtaking colors. You'll find the trailhead 11 miles north of Sedona, with an access point at the Call of the Canyon day use area. More information here.
Come autumn, the lush woodland terrain of the San Francisco is set ablaze with the fire of a thousand suns. Many a trail traverses this enchanting landscape, so lace up your hiking boots and start exploring!
The oldest and largest botanical garden in Arizona, Boyce Thompson Arboretum spans nearly 400 acres. Fall is by far our favorite season to visit, as various types of trees showcase their most spectacular red, orange, and yellow hues. Three miles of trails wind through the park, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the views. More information here.
Address: 37615 East Arboretum Way, Superior, Arizona 85173
Address: 37615 East Arboretum Way, Superior, Arizona 85173
It simply isn't fall in Arizona without a visit to Apple Annie's. Ten varieties of apple grow in their sprawling, you-pick fields, just waiting to be taken home and used in scrumptious recipes. Adding to the festive fun are a pumpkin patch and corn maze! The orchards and pumpkin patch have different addresses, so visit the Apple Annie's website for specifics.
Can you picture a better place to escape to in the fall? Forest Houses Resort is nestled on Oak Creek in Sedona, making it perfect for a leaf-peeping getaway. With 16 charming treehouses to choose from, rest assured there's something to fit your unique needs and preferences. More information here.
Address: 9275 North State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Address: 9275 North State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Another Flagstaff hike, Inner Basin Trail spans 3.2 miles of beautiful pine and aspen trees. There are no words to describe the striking vistas -- it's like something straight out of a fairytale. To access the trailhead, use Google Maps to Lockett Meadow. More information here.
Also on Oak Creek, Orchard Canyon is nestled on ten acres of vibrant organic gardens and apple trees. 16 cozy cabins sleep between two and six people, all framed by the warm colors of autumn. Staying here feels like entering a whimsical storybook! More information here.
Address: 8067 North State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Address: 8067 North State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Although the Snowbowl is most popular in the winter for obvious reasons, we're partial to it during fall. Nothing quite compares to riding the ski lift through some of the most vivid foliage you've ever seen. More information here.
Address: 9300 North Snowbowl Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Address: 9300 North Snowbowl Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Finally, we head back to Flagstaff to embark on Abineau Trail to Bear Jaw Trail. The most strenuous hike on our list, this nearly seven-mile trek ascends almost 1,900 feet of mountainous terrain. Your efforts will be duly rewarded, however, as the pure bliss of seeing a forest floor covered in bright yellow leaves. More information here.
How many of these spots have you checked off your fall bucket list? Did we miss your favorite place? Let us know, and check out our previous article to learn more about the Snowbowl during autumn: 7 Reasons Why It’s Better To Visit The Arizona Snowbowl In The Fall.
Address: Inner Basin Trail, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA
Address: Coconino National Forest at, Lake Mary Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA
Address: Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA
Address: 8067 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
Address: 9275 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
Address: 2081 West Hardy Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643, USA
Address: 6405 W Williams Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643, USA
Address: 37615 E Arboretum Way, Superior, AZ 85173, USA
Address: San Francisco Peaks, Arizona 86001, USA
Address: W Fork Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
Address: 300 N Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ 86324, USA
Address: Snowbowl Dr, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA
