Find 5 Bucket-List-Level Views in Arizona Without Needing to Be an Expert Hiker

Arizona nature lovers venture out for different reasons. For instance, some are daredevils who enjoy challenging hikes with mind-blowing rewards. Others are like me, who live for easy hikes with epic views. On the other hand, some folks are simply die-hard influencers looking to capture Instagram-worthy destinations.

Of course, photographers are always on the hunt for jaw-dropping views, too, and carrying their equipment on long hikes could be a hassle. Thankfully, Arizona is an enchanting place brimming with magical natural wonders that speak to whatever our hearts desire. If you’re searching for bucket-list views in Arizona without putting in too much effort, here are some of Mother Nature’s greatest rewards. 

1. Boynton Canyon Trail

• Location: Coconino National Forest, Sedona
• Mileage: 6.6 miles out-and-back
• Need to Know: Moderate hike with rock scrambling. A Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful pass is required. Dog/kid-friendly. 

When it comes to Instagram-worthy destinations in Arizona, Boynton Canyon Trail is on my list. The out-and-back hike is about seven miles long, and you don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the spectacular red rock canyons here. However, for the daredevils who would like more adventure, hike the extra quarter mile to the secret Subway Cave. This hidden gem requires a tiny bit of scrambling, but that only adds to the fun. 

2. Horseshoe Bend Trail

• Location: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Page
• Mileage: 1.5 miles out-and-back
• Need to Know: Easy. Parking fee. Stroller-friendly, wheelchair accessible, dog/kid-friendly. Crowded

Easily one of the most iconic overlooks in Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is a popular destination for photographers, social media influencers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The trek? An easy two-mile hike to see the Colorado River and Glen Canyon. Sure, you’ll run into tons of people here, but if you ask me, the next-level views are worth it. A recent hiker had this to say, “Absolutely stunning! The view at Horseshoe Bend is breathtaking. The hike is easy, and the scenery is out of this world. Don’t miss it!”

3. Sky Island Scenic Byway to Windy Point Vista

• Location: Coronado National Forest, Mt. Lemmon
• Mileage: 15 miles of driving
• Need to Know: Entry Fee. No hiking required. Stroller-friendly, wheelchair accessible, kid/dog-friendly. Crowded.

Nothing beats hopping in your car and driving to a destination that will blow your mind. That’s exactly what you’ll get as you drive along Sky Island Scenic Byway (aka Catalina Highway/Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway) to Windy Point Vista. I don’t mind avoiding the desert heat or swapping my hiking boots for a 7,000-foot drive up Mount Lemmon. Since the overlook is so accessible, don’t expect to be alone here. But for a few miles of driving and gas money, you won’t be disappointed. As one of Arizona’s most scenic highways, this drive to Windy Point belongs on your list. A bonus? There are several places to stop to soak up the majestic landscape.

4. Toroweap Overlook Trail

• Location: Grand Canyon National Park
• Mileage: 1.8 miles out-and-back
• Need to Know: Easy, less-crowded trail. Entry fee or America the Beautiful Pass. Kid-friendly. Require a 4x4 vehicle. Campground.

Between the massive crowds, timed entry slots, and the parking/shuttling to access the park, the Grand Canyon can be a hassle for some of us. But what I love about the iconic park is the hidden gems tucked away in some of its quieter corners. The Toroweap Overlook is one of them. Since the trail is only one mile each way, it doesn’t require too much effort to see the out-of-this-world views of the canyon and the Colorado River below. Just be sure you have a high-clearance vehicle, and you’ll be good to go. A bonus? You can camp here.     

5. Spider Rock Viewpoint 

• Location: Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Chinle
• Mileage: 0.4 miles out-and-back 
• Need to Know: Easy, less-crowded trail. Stroller-friendly, wheelchair accessible, kid/dog-friendly. 

Only a 10-minute hike will lead to Spider Rock, two 800-foot spires rising from the floor of Canyon de Chelly in the Navajo Nation. What I like most about this overlook is that you won’t find too many people here, making it one of Arizona’s best-kept secrets. A trip to this hidden gem rock formation will leave you with lasting memories. The best time to visit is around sunset, when the warm glows from the rocks unfold in the most magical way. The scene from the viewpoint is next level, and a photographer's dream come true.  

This list is just a quick snapshot of some of the bucket list views in Arizona. And I know this list doesn't even begin to scratch the surface. So, do me a favor, tell me on the Only In Your State nomination page which views you like the best. Or share your favorite overlook or hiking trail in Arizona with me. 

And when you’re feeling inspired, use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to personalize your own scenic adventure in Arizona.