50 Mesmerizing Attractions in the Southwest
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26. Red Rock Scenic Byway
Red Rock Scenic Byway is another breathtaking drive in Sedona, and although crowded, not nearly as popular as Oak Creek. This one is jam packed with red rock views although it does not offer the respite from the heat, nor the leafy trees and swimming holes of Oak Creek. What it does offer is a glimpse of many of Sedona’s most famous rock formations. Interesting, all rocks are named after the shape they resemble. Numerous hikes, overlooks, and attractions can be found along this 13 mile journey. So give yourself plenty of time to explore!
Directly on the route you will find the wonderful Chapel of the Holy Cross, the Little Horse trail, and the Bell Rock vortex (a vortex is an area of natural intense healing energy-more on that below) known to be a hotspot of UFO activity. Avoid this drive on holiday weekends and on Sundays when Phoenix daytrippers head back home. Do plan your drive early in the morning or on a weekday if possible to fully take advantage of the incredible scenery without massive crowds!
Location: SR 179 Sedona
27. Chapel of the Holy Cross
For truly awe-inspiring views head over to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a unique Roman Catholic church built in between 2 massive red rock formations. This was rightfully so voted as one of the top man-made wonders in Arizona. Really, this is a hard feat as the state is home to many incredible sights, both natural & man-made. The architecture inside is incredible (a student of Frank Lloyd Wright designed the place) but the jaw dropping views right outside the Chapel doors is what draws thousands and thousands of tourists from around the world each year to take in the majestic red rock landscapes.
The Chapel is one of Sedona’s most powerful vortex sites. A vortex site is an area which supposedly has a lot of positive natural energy. Many visitors claim to feel rejuvenated after visiting these sites. There are several hikes in the area also reported to harvest strong vortex energies and you can even sign up for a special tour of the various vortex sites.
Location: Sedona, Arizona
More info on the Chapel of the Holy Cross
28. Madera Canyon
Madera Canyon, a picturesque canyon in the Santa Rita Mountains within the Coronado National Forest of Southern Arizona, is one of the best places in the country for birdwatching. While the best birdwatching distinction is debatable, Madera is a great daytrip from Tucson. Madera sits at an elevation of around 5000 ft, and thus, is popular with Tucson residents looking to escape the continuous 100+ degree summer heat.
Pretty pine and deciduous trees line all the trails. Views of the surrounding mountains add a bit of excitement. You may even see some wildlife if you head out early in the morning. Madera is a great place to escape the heat and congestion of Tucson with opportunities to hike, birdwatch, & picnic in a pretty forested setting.
Location: 25 miles Southeast of Tucson
29. Doe Mountain
Few trails offer such world-class views in exchange for as short of a hike as Doe Mountain does in Sedona. In exchange for nothing more than a moderately steep climb of just 0.7 miles, you are rewarded with the most enchanting 360 degree red rock vistas. The views from atop the mesa are just incredible. You can stroll around a bit more here taking in the exotic plant life and enjoying a bird’s eye view of the area. This gem of a trail should be near the top of every hiker and photographer’s Arizona to-do list!
Location: Sedona, Arizona
30. Watson Lake
It’s rare to find any water in Arizona, so any lake (man-made or not) is a treasure. Prescott, a small but growing community in North Central Arizona, is home to 3 decent man-made lakes. The most scenic is beautiful Watson Lake which is home to some interesting looking rock formations called the Granite Dells. As a result of the isolated location, this lake feels like a true oasis in the middle of a dry desert.
Running right next to the lake is one of Arizona’s only rail trails, the flat and easy 4 mile long Peavine National Recreational trail. This path is a great way to get in a long bike ride or run in a scenic rare-for- Arizona lakeside setting. There are also some nice moderate hiking trails which overlook the lake. Renting a kayak or canoe for the day is yet another option.
Location: Prescott, Arizona
