The 5 Most Colorful Places You Can Find in Arizona

Arizona isn't just a neutral-colored landscape of desert and mountains. In fact, there are plenty of brilliant hues throughout the state, both man-made and natural. From turquoise colored waters of one of the most awe-inspiring waterfalls found at the bottom of the Grand Canyon to the iconic red rocks of Sedona, here are some of the most colorful natural places in Arizona:

Most colorful places in Arizona

1. Sedona

Of all the colorful places to visit in Arizona, Sedona draws visitors from all over the world who wish to gaze upon its splendor. Seeing the looming red rock formations come into focus as I drive into town always gives me butterflies and makes me appreciate the town as a whole. I'm so lucky to live only 2 hours away!

The red and orange hues of the rocks are created by iron minerals, including hematite, found within the sandstone. You can also spot white sandstone rocks in the layers of the formations in certain places — this is known as Coconino Sandstone. My favorite thing to do when visiting Sedona is to watch how the light changes the colors' appearance throughout the day. When visiting Sedona, do yourself a favor and stick around to witness sunset over the red rock landscape at Airport Mesa, and treat yourself to dinner at Mesa Grill after the sun goes down.

2. Havasu Falls

One of the most iconic sights in the Grand Canyon is Havasu Falls. Located in the western part of the Grand Canyon, which is not part of the national park, this exquisite waterfall is 100 feet tall and cascades into a pristine turquoise pool below it. Most of us have seen photos of this stunning natural wonder, but have you ever seen it in person? If not, and it's on your bucket list, you must first obtain a permit and make a reservation for the lodge or campground from the Havasupai Tribe. Note that it's not a day trip but a multi-day excursion that either involves a long, strenuous hike into and out of the Grand Canyon or a helicopter ride at an additional cost. However, if you end up getting a permit and making the trip to see Havasu Falls and the other waterfalls in the canyon, it will be one of the most memorable trips you'll ever have in Arizona.

3. The Wave

The striated red and orange sandstone that undulates through a portion of Coyote Buttes North near the Arizona-Utah border is known as The Wave. Its colorful stripes, known as Liesegang rings, create a mesmerizing wave-like effect frozen in time. This is another permit-only destination in the state that requires those eager to see it to register via a lottery system. Will you be lucky enough to win a permit?

4. White Pocket of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

As if Arizona didn't have enough otherworldly landscapes, here is the colorful White Pocket in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. White Pocket is completely unique, with vibrant rock formations swirling with colors that look striking against a bright blue sky. There is no fee to visit, but due to the rough terrain and the remote location, a 4x4 high-clearance vehicle is required to reach White Pocket. Take plenty of water with you as there are no facilities in the area. Learn more on the BLM website.

5. Emerald Cove

The last on our list is a place that looks absolutely unreal! Emerald Cove is located along the Colorado River within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area at the Arizona-Nevada border. The water appears jade green due to light reflecting off the algae-covered rocks below the surface. Emerald Cove is considered a hidden gem and is accessible via kayaking the Black Canyon National Water Trail. The best way to explore the water and caves of Emerald Cove is to take a glass-bottom kayak tour, so you can really get a good look at the water below as you paddle.

Tips for Visiting and Photographing Colorful Spots in Arizona

The best tip I can give you to photograph the most colorful places in the Grand Canyon State is to visit during the golden hour. Also known as the "magic hour," the golden hour is the time just after sunrise and just before sunset when the natural light is soft and gives the landscape a golden hue. You should also visit these spots as early as possible, not only to avoid crowds, but you'll want to be there before it gets too hot, especially in the late spring, summer, and early fall when temperatures can reach triple digits.

What Makes Arizona So Colorful

Beyond the mountains and desert lie canyons, rock formations, and waterfalls that showcase the state's colorful side. From the red rocks of Sedona to the sparkling green waters of Emerald Cove, Arizona's landscapes look like works of art that only Mother Nature could create. If you'd love to explore more of Arizona's colorful side, plan a trip with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.