People Live Their Whole Lives in Arizona and Somehow Miss These 5 Places

The Grand Canyon State's mystical landscape is full of secrets. No matter how long you've lived here, there are probably at least a few must-visit places in Arizona that you aren't aware of. From hidden canyons with layered sandstone formations that glow blue at dusk to a sea of dramatic rock spires, these lesser-known destinations are the opposite of tourist traps. Even if you've visited them before, they're always worth returning to.

1. Blue Canyon, Hopi Indian Reservation

Nothing will ever replace the Grand Canyon, but I think we can all agree that it steals the thunder. Arizona has many other canyons worth visiting, including Blue Canyon, located on the Hopi Indian Reservation. This surreal place features layered sandstone formations that appear blue when the light hits them in a specific way, making it a dream for photographers (and anyone who loves otherworldly landscapes). Please note that you must have a Hopi guide to visit Blue Canyon; tours typically begin at the Hopi Cultural Center.

2. Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness, Winkelman

Nestled about halfway between Tucson and Phoenix, Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness is a riparian oasis where nature lovers can seek solitude amid towering bluffs, lush vegetation, and a year-round flowing creek. The canyon is especially stunning in the fall, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange. You'll have to forge your own path, as there are no designated trails, but that's part of the fun!

3. Chiricahua National Monument, Willcox

A surprising number of Arizonans don't know about (or, at the very least, have never visited) Chiricahua National Monument. This magical place features hundreds, if not thousands, of spire-shaped rock formations left by a volcanic eruption that occurred nearly 30 million years ago. The park features 17 miles of trails leading through the rocks, also known as hoodoos, and seeing them up close is a truly unforgettable experience.

4. Cathedral Wash Trail, Marble Canyon

I hadn't heard of Cathedral Wash Trail until recently, when I was researching lesser-known hikes in Arizona for an article. This 3-mile trail in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is perfect for adventure-seekers, leading down to the Colorado River through a series of slot canyons. Those unaccustomed to hiking in slot canyons will need to move slowly and carefully, as there are some tricky sections on the descent. But the views are mind-boggling, and this is such a hidden gem that you're unlikely to encounter anyone else on the trail.

5. Sycamore Canyon, Yavapai County

Sycamore Canyon is a 20-mile wilderness area that cuts through the Mogollon Rim near Flagstaff and Sedona. Lush vegetation covers the steep, red rock cliffs, offering stunning views as far as the eye can see. Visitors can hike, camp, enjoy seasonal waterfalls, and discover hidden swimming holes, such as the one accessible via Parsons Trail.

Have you explored all of these must-visit places in Arizona? What other bucket-list-worthy destinations do locals and tourists often overlook? If you're feeling inspired, try planning your own Arizona trips using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.