The Best of Arizona Outdoors
The southwestern gem of the US, Arizona, is popularly known as the Grand Canyon State. Perfect for the classic American adventure, Arizona promises a glorious mix of history and urban sophistication coming to life against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, rivers, beaches and lakefronts under clear skies and astonishing sunsets.
Exploring Arizona in all its historical depth and natural wonder can be life changing if done right. So, here are some must visit attractions and top viewpoints of Arizona that adventure lovers should not miss.
The Grand Canyon
A natural wonder so beautiful and majestic as Grand Canyon National Park is every adventurer’s dream. The Grand Canyon National Park stretches across 277 miles of endless ridges on colourful cliffs and deep ravines carved out by the Colorado River. Sprinkled with numerous museums, hiking trails, restaurants, Grand Canyon offers myriad opportunities for outdoor adventure, yet the most popular remains taking in the breath- taking views from the South Rim as you watch the rocks turn pastel with sunsets and sunrises.
Havasupai Falls
,Accessible through a challenging 8 mile hike from the rim of Grand Canyon, the Havasu Creek with its blue-green waters is the perfect reward. The five dramatic plunges of Havasu waterfalls make for astonishing sights accompanied by the unique culture of Havasupai Tribe. Revel in the splendour here with activities like swimming, rafting, photography, hiking and exploration. Don't forget to secure your permits ahead of time. For a more in-depth post on "how to" get to Havasupai Falls, visit here.
Sedona
aka Red Rock Country
Considered one of the "Most Beautiful Places on Earth",a 1.5-hour drive from the north of Phoenix will take you to the iconic crimson rock formations of Sedona with its magnificent mountain trails and energy vortexes. One of the top viewpoints, Sedona houses numerous leisurely as well as challenging trails for hiking, biking or the famous Pink Jeep Tour. A rejuvenating adventure awaits with countless art galleries, spas, fine dining places to accompany the natural exploration and healing that Sedona brings.
Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon, located on the Navajo Island east of Page, Arizona, is a beautiful slot canyon famous for its beauty, colourful rocks, and the ambient light. The upper and lower Antelope Canyon, both offer photograph-worthy spots accessible through a day of guided tour along the narrow passages. Tour companies like Ken's Tours will give you an unforgettable experience. To learn more about the difference between the two slot canyons and how to do it properly, check out this podcast I did with "Experiences You Should Have."
Horseshoe Bend
One of the most photographed sections of Colorado River, Horseshoe bend is located near the Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell, a quick drive from Antelope Canyon. The curves of Colorado River meander into a horseshoe shaped wonder with a huge rock formation rising from the middle attracting hundreds of tourists. A small hike is worth the views of this unique spectacle. The cost to enter the park is $10 USD per vehicle.
The Painted Desert
Better known as the Petrified Forest National Park. Art comes to life as you enter the Painted Desert located in northern Arizona. The rocky badlands here stretch along 150 miles of vast landscape featuring rocks in every hue from lavenders to greys to reds, oranges, and pinks. Relish the feeling of being surrounded by art as you explore this mesmerizing desert. Price per vehicle is $25.
Payson
The area around Payson, Arizona with its pine forests, alpine lakes and beautiful trails offers the quintessential camping spots. An escape from the summer heat, camping at Payson offers fun outdoor activities like hiking, biking, wildlife watching, water sports, and much more. Be sure to gaze over the Mongollon Rim or check out the famous waterfalls of Fossil Creek (permit required).
Flagstaff
Famous for its thriving downtown scene combined with gorgeous mountain culture, Flagstaff city is also the closest to Grand Canyon National Park. Spend your day exploring natural trails amid the largest Ponderosa Pine forest and enjoy the small-town charm of Flagstaff at night. Do not forget to stare at the night skies from the Lowell Observatory. If you snowboard or ski you’re in the right place, during the winter you can enjoy the The Snowbowl Ski Resort area that covers approximately one percent of the San Francisco Peaks, where you can shred 2300 ft of vertical drop.
Tucson
Tucson, the second largest city of Arizona, is a gentle yet fun-loving mix of various cultures adorned by historical buildings and the University of Arizona. Explore the restaurants, bars and quirky shops here followed by a trip to enjoy the charming out-of-town adventures at Mount Lemmon and Saguaro National Park.
Step back from the hectic city life and reconnect with nature in adventurous ways as you explore the best of Arizona, visiting its top sights and viewpoints. Beautiful Arizona offers it ALL!
