Arizona doesn’t slack when it comes to incredible natural destinations. Home to 3 national parks, 6 national forests, and 31 state parks, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing what to see and do.
If you’re currently plotting a trip to Arizona and want to see as much nature as possible, chances are you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with options. Put simply, one could easily spend an entire year exploring Arizona’s natural gems and never have to do the same thing twice!
To make things a bit easier for you, I decided to come up with the ultimate list of natural destinations to visit in Arizona. Especially for first-timers in the Grand Canyon State who want to get a mix of the best this amazing region has to offer!
7 Amazing Natural Destinations in Arizona
Tonto National Bridge State Park
Tonto National Bridge State Park is believed to be home to the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. Aside from its humongous size, the entire state park is a true geological wonder. Whose landscape will make you feel as though you were transported into a storybook setting?
During your visit to Tonto National Bridge, you’ll get to stand at the top of the bridge. And get the unique experience of exploring travertine rocks in a tunnel. If you’re up for more adventure, you can also choose from four different hiking trails in the park. All of this will lead you down into the canyon to get a brand new perspective of the bridge!
Horseshoe Bend
Visiting the main lookout point at Horseshoe Bend is pretty easy. And requires a short 1-mile hike from the nearby city of Page. Plus, it’s located pretty close to popular Arizona destinations like the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley. Which makes it an ideal pitstop to make in-between adventures.
If you have time to spare, we recommend exploring Horseshoe Bend beyond its main viewpoint. In order to enjoy lesser-known activities in the area. Which range from hiking, helicopter touring, and even rafting down the river!
Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a tranquil section of the Colorado River. And a striking place to visit if you love other-worldly-looking landscapes.
With bold blue waters snaking around red rock formations, Lake Powell is not your usual lakeside adventure. Gawking at the beauty of the lake is reason enough to head here. But there are plenty of activities on the menu if you want to linger a while longer. Including hiking to several viewpoints, tubing, paddleboarding, waterskiing, and wildlife spotting!
Petrified Forest National Park
Striking colors aren’t usually what you expect to find in nature. But at Petrified Forest National Park, they’re pretty much the norm.
Millions and millions of years ago (as in, roughly 200,000 million), floods brought dead logs into the area. Which were later crystallized by silica-rich ash from volcanic activity. Today, the landscape at Petrified Forest is a sea of multicolored glitzy logs. Which will very much have you wondering if you were transported into an entirely different universe!
Havasu Falls
Havasu Falls is a set of waterfalls that cascade down over bright red rock walls and into striking blue pools. Creating a scene that feels as though it should belong in a painting. A pretty challenging hike is required to reach the waterfalls. And a permit to enter the area is also needed. But if you’re the type of traveler who can’t let a great view pass them by, the rewards are guaranteed to be worth the effort.
The trek can be quite challenging due to its hefty elevation gain and demanding terrain. But you’ll have plenty of excuses to stop and take a rest. Especially when you consider the entire way is dotted with beautiful landscapes. Including three other waterfalls, you can take a dip in!
Hoover Dam
A man-made dam may not sound like a place to visit if you’re interested in natural destinations. But Hoover Dam is definitely an exception to the rule.
Constructed inside Black Canyon and over the Colorado River, Hoover Dam isn’t just striking to look at. But when you stand atop it, you’ll be treated to the most breathtaking views of quintessential Arizona scenery.
As a plus, Lake Meade is located pretty close to Hoover Dam. This means you can combine a visit to both places for the ultimate nature experience in Arizona!
Canyon De Chelly National Monument
Located in the heart of Navajo Land, Canyon De Chelly National Monument is a remarkable canyon that just happens to be one of Arizona’s lesser-known destinations.
Aside from the amazing landscapes, you’ll see all over, an aspect that makes Canyon De Chelly incredibly unique is the fact that you’ll find traces of civilizations. Like the Anazaki and Puebloan people who once resided in the area. Plus, a visit here also provides visitors with a unique chance to learn more about the Navajo people. Who still call the canyon their home up to this day!
What Is Arizona Known For?
Ah, Arizona! Let me tell you, this state is known for more than just its scorching hot temperatures and cacti. When you think of Arizona, a few things may come to mind. First off, this place is all about stunning natural beauty. From the gorgeous Oak Creek Canyon to the majestic San Francisco Peaks mountain range, Arizona’s got it all. And speaking of beauty, we can’t forget about the breathtaking Antelope Canyon with its red sandstone formations.
Now, let’s talk about water. Yes, you heard me right! Despite being known for its desert landscapes, Arizona offers some incredible water experiences. Picture this: gliding on green water while water skiing. Yep, that’s right! Arizona gives you the chance to enjoy water sports like nowhere else. Who says you can’t have it all?
So, whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just someone who appreciates the unique charm of this great state, Arizona has something for everyone. It’s no wonder it’s become a bucket list destination for travelers from all over the United States. So, grab your sunscreen, put on your hiking boots, and get ready for an Arizona adventure like no other!
Have you ever been to any of these natural destinations in Arizona? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience. So feel free to tell us all about it in the comment section below!
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