The 10 best insider tips in Arizona
Arizona is known for its saguaro cactus, arid climate, and boundless deserts. However, Arizona is much more than that. Be the 6NS largest state in land mass, there is an abundance of nature to see. While Arizona has many deserts, the state also has miles of pine forests, the deepest canyons imaginable, and hidden waterfalls. In fact, there are many hidden gems to visit in Arizona.
The Grand Canyon State is full of beauty. Tourists travel from all over the world to get a glimpse of the north and south rims of the canyon. Sedona’s Red Rocks, Snow Bowl in Flagstaff, and Phoenix Street Art are loved by tourists and locals alike. These places are so well known that you can run into crowds while just trying to take in all of the spectacular views.
ALSO READ: 15 Must-See Places on a Arizona Road Trip
During my first year in Arizona, I visited many wonderful places. With some I had privacy, with others I had to navigate the crowd to get the view I wanted. While you should visit the popular tourist spots above, this is the place to go if you want to avoid lines and crowds. Take a look at the list we created to lead you to the less busy but still beautiful hidden gems in Arizona.
1. Sycamore Falls, Sycamore Canyon
Located west of Sedona, Sycamore Canyon is a protected canyon along Sycamore Creek. The canyon has many hiking trails to choose from. Located in Red Rock Country, get views of red rocks without the crowds often associated with Sedona.
Visit the beautiful waterfalls in spring or winter, either way you will get beautiful and secluded views. You have to commit to a decent hike to get the unobstructed views of the falls, but the hike is well worth this Instagram dream location.
2. Secret Canyon, page
Most Arizona residents have heard of Antelope Canyon. While beautiful and wondrous to see, I suggest a much less busy canyon to avoid the crowds. Secret Canyon is a sandstone slot canyon in Water Holes Canyon near Payson and is one of the many hidden gems in Arizona.
To see the Secret Canyon you have to visit Horseshoe Bend Tours. This gives you access and a private tour, and while you’re at it, visit Horseshoe Bend. In groups of no more than 25, enjoy views of the curve from a private Navajo lookout point.
3. Canyon De Chelly, Chinle
The last of our Canyon locations is Canyon De Chelly. Located in Northern Arizona in Apache Land, this beautiful place brimming with things is for history and nature lovers alike. Visit Spider Rock and Mummy Cave for unique experiences. The canyon has been inhabited by Indian tribes for years, which makes the area rich in prehistoric rock art.
4. Havasupai Falls, Havasupai Indian Reservation
Home of the Havasupai indigenous people, this reservation is located in the vast Grand Canyon National Park. It’s an extremely remote reservation that makes it difficult to get to if not well planned. Reservations are required, and it’s a 10-mile hike to the falls from the top of the canyon. Reservations will not reopen until February 2022 to protect indigenous people from the spread of the virus.
5. Sunset Crater National Monument
Located north of Flagstaff, this dormant volcano is one of many in the San Francisco Mountain Range. This volcano is extinct so don’t let fear stop you from exploring. Lots of hiking trails and beautiful mountain views make this place a nice excursion. There are many locals who have never heard of this monument, which makes it an ideal place to avoid large crowds.
6. Cave Grotto, Peach Springs
Off the beaten path, we have Caverns Grotto. If you want to visit the Grand Canyon but want to get a little more out of the trip than usual, you’ve come to the right place. Located 60 m underground in a cave that is over 65 million years old, this is a unique experience. Enjoy cave tours, restaurants, and even a Cavern Inn to stay at.
7. Woods Canyon Lake, Payson
If you enjoy fishing, hiking, and camping, head to Woods Canyon Lake. The hotel is approximately 30 miles east of Payson. This lake is much less busy than the Prescott lakes and is perfect for fishing for trout. Near the campsite is the Rim Lakes Vista Trail, which leads to breathtaking views of the Mogollon Rim.
8. White Mountains, Fort Apache Reservation
This mountain region is located in the east near the border with New Mexico. It offers scenic views of Mount Baldy, numerous lakes and streams, and canyons. It can get hot in the desert, to take a break from the heat of the phoenix, enjoy this Far Eastern paradise in the summer months. Visit Alpine, Springerville or Greer to enjoy the small towns of the White Mountains.
9. Goldfield Ghost Town, Apache Junction
Not far from Phoenix is Apache Junction. This place is great if you want to go to the Superstition Mountains. There are lakes and lots of walks. Just outside is the Goldfield Ghost Town, from which you can enjoy wonderful views of the mountains. Make sure to stop at the old saloon and grab a cold drink. Visit the Mammoth Gold Mine and Goldfield Museum. This hidden gem will delight adults and children alike.
10. Watson Lake, Prescott
Prescott is about two hours north of Phoenix. It is known for its forests and lakes, a great place to cool off in the summer heat. The most unique lake in Prescott is Watson Lake. The outlook is different than the outlook you get from any other body of water in the state. Strong rocks form the backdrop and still water creates a beautiful mirror effect. You can kayak, canoe, hike, or take in the scenic views as you climb the granite cliffs.
Comments are closed.