5 “Hidden Gems” In Arizona We’ve Always Known About But Can’t Stop Visiting

There are some hidden gems in Arizona that we all know about and have visited, but we still return to them again and again. Whether they're off the beaten path or just take a lot of paperwork to get to, some of Arizona's best hidden gems are worth the extra effort and adventure to find. In no particular order, here are five of our favorite hidden gems in Arizona that are worth working into your itinerary.

1. The Wave 

Hiking The Wave in Arizona is a bucket-list experience and is accessible only with a permit. Also known as Coyote Buttes North, The Wave is an otherworldly red sandstone rock formation undulating through the backcountry area of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. There is no dedicated trail, but it requires a strenuous 6.4-mile hike to reach. But is it worth it? Absolutely, so take the time to obtain a permit and, hopefully, you'll be able to cross it off your Arizona bucket list.

Getting a chance to see The Wave will take some preparation, but it’s worth it! You’ll need to enter a lottery from the Bureau of Land Management about four months prior to the date you choose in the "Advanced Lottery" or two days in advance of your anticipated hike in the "Daily Lottery"—and cross your fingers that you are selected. A limited number of permit holders are selected in each lottery. This is one trail you'll want an AllTrails+ account for.

2. Cave of Bells

Nestled in Sawmill Canyon, this hidden gem in Arizona is unique in more ways than one. First, you’ll need to obtain a key from the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Tucson. There is a $100 deposit to get the key, which will be returned when you return the key to the office. Once you’ve obtained the key, you can visit the cave and explore the fascinating (and fragile) underground wilderness. You’ll want to be prepared before you take on this epic side quest, so be sure to read up on what to bring on your visit to the Cave of Bells. A 4WD vehicle is required to reach Sawmill Canyon and access Cave of Bells, one of the most intriguing secret spots in Arizona.

3. Montezuma Castle

Montezuma Castle is one of the most well-preserved cliff dwellings in the United States. Carved into the limestone cliffs, these ancient dwellings date back to the 12th century, when the Sinagua Indians inhabited the area. As one of the world's first national monuments, this is one of the most unique places in Arizona.

4. Blue Ridge Mountain Trail 

This 9-mile loop trail near Lakeside, Arizona, is long but only gains about 800 feet of elevation, so it evens out. While the trail is pretty rocky in some areas, you'll be led through a lovely mix of junipers, gamble oaks, and ponderosa pines with some lovely views along the way. There's even a hidden ice cave you might be interested in, and this natural wonder makes the trek even more worthwhile.

5. Bear Canyon Lake

Sitting at an elevation of 7,560 feet, this hidden gem in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is a favorite spot for rainbow trout fishing, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This man-made lake in Arizona is a picturesque spot to enjoy a picnic or take the loop trail that encircles it. You can even stay at the lake's rustic campground for a peaceful Arizona getaway. Learn more on the U.S. Forest Service website.

Have you visited any of these hidden gems in Arizona? Share this article with someone you want to visit one of these destinations with. You should also take some time to discover even more hidden gems in Arizona—we have a destination listed for each month. Ready to explore more of what the Grand Canyon State has to offer? Create your own trip using Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.