When you think of Arizona, an arid desert, desolate landscapes and images of the Wild West come to mind. This land of natural wonders is home to unbelievable geological formations like slot canyons, buttes, desert, lakes, and even waterfalls!
Sacred to the Native American populations who have inhabited this land for hundreds of years, these places are a joy to visit and explore. Some are downright out of this world! So grab your besties and take a road trip to this natural wonderland. Check out the top five places that you must visit in Arizona.
#5 – The Grand Canyon
A natural wonder clearly visible from space and drawing in about 5 million visitors each year, The Grand Canyon is just that – truly and magnificently ‘grand’! Carved by the might Colorado River millennia ago, The Grand Canyon stretches lazily across Northern Arizona and plunges to a depth of one mile at its deepest point.
To take in breathtaking views of the canyon, visit the glass-viewing platform of the South Rim. Mule rides, river trips, hiking and bicycling are some of the unique ways to take in the beauty of the Grand Canyon. For the adventurous types, a multi-day river rafting expedition across the Colorado River will give you unbeatable access to the wilds of the Grand Canyon. To beat the crowds, check out the North Rim, which is just as grand, and has many hidden trails to explore, minus all the annoying selfie stick-wielding tourists! And the uninhibited beauty of the road leading to the North Rim rounds off all the reasons that make the Grand Canyon one of the must visit places in Arizona.
#4 – Antelope Canyon
Forming eerie, interesting and swirling shapes like that of a tribal chief, the pirate Jack Sparrow, a heart, and more on its cavernous limestone walls, the beauty of Antelope Canyon is one to behold! During your visit, a friendly Navajo guide will show you the marvels of this slot canyon that is divided into two parts – Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon.
Be mesmerized by the interplay of vivid colors, the dance of light and shadow, and learn about the history of the people that have inhabited the surrounding lands for hundreds of years. Plenty of Insta-worthy shots await you at this gem of a place in Arizona! So make sure that your camera has sufficient battery power and your phone has ample storage space because you’re going to be taking hundreds of pictures (not joking!) of this breathtaking natural wonder!
#3 – Horseshoe Bend
A standout natural wonder of Arizona, which is almost a hidden gem, is the Horseshoe Bend. To reach this place, there are no paved paths; just a dirt road from the parking lot that leads to a cliff overlooking a magnificent horseshoe-shaped meander. Carved out by the constant action of the mighty Colorado River, the Horseshoe Bend presents a glorious sight, especially with its distinctive shape and bright colors. Catch it in the right light and you are guaranteed a perfect wallpaper-worthy picture! For a unique view, go on a scenic helicopter ride over the Horseshoe Bend or explore it on horseback. Any option you choose to visit this natural wonder, it will leave you awestruck for sure!
#2 – Havasupai Falls
Nestled within the Havasupai Indian Reservation of the Grand Canyon are the paradisiacal Havasupai Falls. Consisting of five falls that flow over orange travertine rocks into pools of aquamarine water, the Havasupai Falls seem like an oasis in the middle of a harsh desert landscape.
Providing life-sustaining blue-green waters to the Havasupai Tribe who live about eight miles below the rim of the Grand Canyon, the mesmerizing Havasupai Falls are now one of the top places to visit in Arizona. Hike down or use a pack mule to reach the falls, and dip your toes in the cool refreshing water of this Arizona gem!
#1 – Monument Valley
Evoking strong images of the Wild West, Monument Valley is an iconic place to visit in Arizona. Comprising vividly colored sandstone buttes or spires set against the bright blue Arizona sky, this natural wonder has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows and music videos. The beauty of Monument Valley is best explored via a self-drive tour or a guided tour. But if you don’t have time to drive to the valley, you need not worry for some buttes of the Monument Valley are visible even from the highway!
In Arizona, there is no dearth of scenic beauty and there are some incredible places to visit here. This summer, plan a solo trip or a group getaway to the wild lands of Arizona and you can be sure that you’ll be talking about it for years to come!
