14 Secret Spots in Arizona That Are Truly Amazing
Apart from the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, Arizona boasts some the most incredible natural beauties and hidden gems that many overlook. These secret spots are serene and beautiful, and an escape from the usual tourist trails.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking some new trails or a casual traveler looking to see a different side of Arizona, these spots will leave you in awe. In this article, we will look at some lesser known wonders that are great for exploration.
The Wave
One reason The Wave is a geological marvel is that it is in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. It has its undulating, colorful sandstone formations that look like they have been given swirls of pastel coloring. A visit here is rare and exclusive, but access is limited to a few visitors a day, so it remains untouched.
Antelope Canyon
It’s not a total secret, but the lower parts of Antelope Canyon are less traveled than the upper parts. Famous for its wave like structure and light beams that penetrate the narrow openings at just the right time of day, this canyon is a photographer’s paradise.
Fossil Creek
Picture crystal clear waters full of the wildlife, and perfect for swimming. Fossil Creek is beautiful and a revitalizing retreat, with natural spring water that pushes tens of thousands of gallons of water minute after minute. The surroundings are a lush and refreshing stop in the Arizona heat.
Havasu Falls
Havasu Falls is tucked away in the Grand Canyon, which makes it feel as though it is straight from a fantasy novel. Shrouded by red rocks, this waterfall sits in a relatively isolated canyon and splashes its turquoise waters over these rocks. The site is a bit of a trek, but the shimmering pool below is more than worth the effort.
Chocolate Falls
Also called Grand Falls, Chocolate Falls is truly spectacular at odd times but especially during monsoon season. The 185 foot drop plunges the muddy waters into a dramatic and powerful display. It is a stark contrast to the typical dry landscape of Arizona, and a unique spectacle of nature.
Sycamore Canyon
Sycamore Canyon is the second largest canyon in Arizona, and a fine place for those who enjoy solitude and natural beauty. It has red rocks, green vegetation and a variety of wildlife, and provides a quieter alternative to more popular canyons with lots of trails and scenic overlooks.
Chiricahua National Monument
Chiricahua National Monument is known as the ‘Wonderland of Rocks’ and is a great labyrinth of rock spires formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. This area is quiet, with trails that wind through the towering formations to give views that are just spectacular.
Watson Lake
An aerial view over Watson Lake in Prescott has remarkably surreal scenery that features granite boulders and blue water. There’s something peaceful about kayaking through the lake, a couple of hidden nooks and crannies to explore. Take a day on the water at this wonderful place surrounded by beauty of nature.
Blue Canyon
Blue Canyon is on Hopi land and features an otherworldly landscape of blue, grey and red rock formations. It’s a remote area that very few people have visited and it feels very exclusive. It’s a memorable place for those lucky enough to visit because of the solitude and alien like scenery.
Cochise Stronghold
Located along beautiful dramatic rock formations and lush vegetation with plenty of hiking and exploring opportunities, this is a stunning area. History buffs and nature lovers alike will not want to miss walking your way through the stronghold as you can hear the whispers of history in the canyons.
Sedona’s Secret Canyon
The Secret Canyon is tucked away from the busy tourist spots of Sedona and gives you a lot of tranquility and surprisingly amazing view. This lesser known hike takes you through narrow slot canyons and vibrant red rock formations, without the crowds. If you don’t mind packing a lunch and enjoying a little peace and quiet, you can come here too, it’s hidden away and there are only the rustling leaves and chirruping of the birds to hear.
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Imagine yourself standing at the foot of a natural bridge, towering over you, with green around you, and a stream running below you, very calmly. Over thousands of years, power of water shaped Tonto Natural Bridge as one of the largest natural bridges in the world. There are several trails leading to some incredible viewpoints, so it’s a great place to go hiking.
Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park is a thing of magical beauty, dwarfed by towering cacti and desert landscapes with much more of a genuine wilderness feel than that of Arizona’s more famous attractions. To see the true beauty of the Sonoran Desert, take a nice drive or head out on the trail and actually see the scenery. Especially at sunset, as the golden light caresses the landscape.
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Canyon de Chelly is a breathtaking landscape that nestles into the northeast corner of Arizona that just feels like something out of history. Stunning red rock canyons and centuries old Navajo dwellings make this ancient site a must see. Even though it’s a popular place with visitors, the sheer size of the area gives you plenty of quiet moments to soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
