20 Most Spectacular Places in Arizona
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
16. Slate Mountain
- Location: Flagstaff
- Address: Head out on US 180 north of Flagstaff for 30 miles. Take FR 191 for 2 miles until you see the trailhead parking.
- Highlight: Best view of The Peaks
- More info on Slate Mountain
Slate Mountain is one of the most incredible trails in Flagstaff, an area with no shortage of desirable hiking areas. The hike involves a challenging 2.5 mile climb up to the 10,000+ foot summit of Slate Mountain. Nothing overly intense for the regular hiker, however, a tough feat if you are not used to the high elevation. From here, you will enjoy the most incredible overlook of the gorgeous San Francisco Peaks, the highest mountain range in the state.
Asides from the wonderful views, you will enjoy a totally isolated setting far away from civilization. As this trail is quite a drive away from town (about 20 minutes), it remains desolate. As this area continues to expand and grow in tourism, hiking Slate Mountain becomes even more of a treasure as the years go on.
Views from the trail and ending overlook
17. Bear Jaw Loop
- Location: Flagstaff
- Address: GPS coordinates: 35°23’33.0″N 111°40’12.7″W
- Highlight: Incredible fall foliage
- More info on Bear Jaw
Like the Inner Basin hike, the Bear Jaw loop stuns come fall with some of the most amazing fall foliage you will lay eyes upon. The 2 mile climb through forests of beautiful aspens is difficult, yet extremely rewarding at the same time. For an even bigger adventure, you can combine Bear Jaw with the Abineau trail for a 7 mile picturesque journey through this pristine mountain wilderness.
Nothing beats hiking in the peak of fall as groves of golden aspens line almost the entirety of this trail. From here, not only can you see Humphrey’s Peak, but also the Grand Canyon which lies 70 miles away. To top it off, hiking this trail is your best bet for any type of wildlife watching, be it mule deer or the more evasive black bears. Always keep your distance and bring bear spray!
Check out the amazing leaf peeping!
18. Honeybee Canyon
- Location: Oro Valley
- Address: 13880 N Rancho Vistoso Blvd, Oro Valley, AZ 85755
- Highlight: Secluded views of the open desert
Although far from the most popular trail in the Tucson region, HoneyBee Canyon sure is one of the most scenic. Considering the hike is just under 2 miles, you really get a lot of bang-for-your-buck on this one. Terrific mountain scenery, endless cacti, and peace and quiet. There is no better trail in the Oro Valley region than Honeybee Canyon.
A peaceful desert oasis!
19. Buffalo Park
- Location: Flagstaff
- Highlight: Best views of the Peaks & Mt Elden
- More info on Buffalo Park
Buffalo Park is the favorite green space of both Flagstaff locals and tourists. This year-round natural wonderland offers opportunities for scenic recreation with each passing season. Whether is be a summer hike, a spring picnic, a fall bike ride, or cross country skiing the winter, Buffalo Park is an amazing recreational spot anytime of year.
No matter the season you visit Flagstaff, be sure to place Buffalo Park high on your to-do list. The picture perfect mountain backdrop makes this the most motivating place in town to get in a wonderful workout.
Gorgeous scenery all year-round!
20. Red Rock Scenic Byway
- Location: Sedona
- Address: AZ-179
- Highlight: Otherworldly red rock formations lining the entirety of the drive
Red Rock Scenic Byway is another picturesque drive in the Sedona region. This one is 14 miles long and features incredible views of the ancient towering red rocks. You will find numerous overlooks along the way, Southwestern shops, the beautiful Village of Tlaquepaque (a local dining and shopping oasis), and numerous hiking trails.
A few scenic must-dos along the drive include hiking the Little Horse trail, exploring Red Rock State Park, and taking in the views at The Chapel of the Holy Cross (a Roman Catholic church built in between 2 rock formations.
Amazing red rock scenery at every turn!
**I hope you have enjoyed this list. Living in Northern Arizona, as well as Tucson, for 4 years truly was a privilege. I got to experience so many wonderful natural attractions. From high altitude hiking, to seeing wildlife in action, to viewing ancient petroglyphs, it has been an adventure to say the least.
