4 Beautiful Spots in Arizona That Will Give You Serious Wanderlust
Ok, why did no one tell me how incredible Arizona is?
Seriously, I (very wrongly) assumed this state only had the Grand Canyon to offer. To be fair, Arizona is known as The Grand Canyon State.
Well, I want to formally apologize to Arizona. Because when I finally visited, I realized that this state is STUNNING. And on my short trip, I only scratched the surface. I really need to get back to the American South West soon.
Ok, before we plan our group trip, let’s look at some of the most beautiful spots in Arizona to inspire our wanderlust.
Petrified Forest National Park
Sure, this doesn’t have the same name recognition as some of Arizona’s other national parks. But Petrified Forest in Northwest Arizona is worth a visit.
Here, you will see large deposits of petrified wood (hence the name) as well as the stunning Painted Dessert. Hike, cycle or drive through this gorgeous scenery.
I stopped in this park on my road trip from Tennessee to California. Even on a sunny June day, the park was very empty. It is a nice alternative to the crowds you will encounter at some of the other beautiful spots in Arizona.
The Grand Canyon
I mean, of course, I need to mention the Grand Canyon.
Yes, this might be the reason you are visiting Arizona in the first place. And it is breathtaking. This park is incredibly well maintained. Go early and soak in the quiet morning views from the many overlooks.
It is difficult to do this park in one day. I tried. Honestly, I wish I’d had more time at this impressive site. But, we don’t always have that chance. And the Grand Canyon is absolutely still worth a quick visit. Just know that you won’t see it all. Limit a short visit to a small hike or scenic overlooks.
Antelope Canyon
This is one of those places that just doesn’t seem real.
Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon on Navajo land. It is divided into the Upper and Lower Canyons. Upper is more popular with tourists and photographers because the slots allow more light beams in.
You will need a guide to explore this canyon. Book tickets in advance, because they sell out in peak teams. Our guide was so helpful and offered to take pictures and adjust our iPhone settings to get the best shots.
Horseshoe Bend
This place is pretty much Instagram heaven. I’m sure you’ve seen tons of pics of this river bend on your feed.
Horseshoe Bend is located near Page, Arizona. You can take a short 3/4 mile hike along a sandy trail to this incredible site. And there will be plenty of tourists with you. But it’s really easy to capture this view without any people in your shot.
Horseshoe Bend was my favorite spot in Arizona. But it was up against some tough competition. I was mostly surprised by how beautiful it looked in real life. I wasn’t sure if Instagram had set unrealistic expectations for the view. But I loved this site and it was even more amazing in person.
Have you visited Arizona? If not, I hope my guide to these 4 beautiful spots in Arizona is giving you some wanderlust!
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