There is no shortage of stunning sights to see in the state of Arizona.
From the red rocks of Sedona to the towering saguaro cacti of the Sonoran Desert there are plenty of natural wonders to behold in this corner of the country.
And that’s not even including all of the man-made attractions like the spectacular Grand Canyon.
If you’re planning a trip to Arizona or even if you’re just curious about what this state has to offer here are 10 of the most stunning sights to see:
1.
The Grand Canyon
No list of Arizona’s stunning sights would be complete without the Grand Canyon.
This massive chasm is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and it’s easy to see why.
At up to 18 miles wide and more than a mile deep in places the Grand Canyon is an awe-inspiring sight.
There are several ways to experience the canyon from hiking or biking along the rim to taking a whitewater rafting trip down the Colorado River.
No matter how you choose to see it the Grand Canyon is sure to take your breath away.
2.
Sedona’s Red Rocks
Sedona is a small city nestled in the midst of some of Arizona’s most stunning scenery.
The area is known for its red rocks which are formed from sandstone that has been eroded over time by wind and rain.
These beautiful rocks aren’t just a pretty sight they’re also perfect for hiking biking and rock climbing.
In fact Sedona is considered one of the best places in the country for rock climbing.
3.
The Petrified Forest
The Petrified Forest is a national park in Arizona that is home to one of the world’s largest collections of petrified wood.
Petrified wood is wood that has been turned to stone through a process of fossilization.
The Petrified Forest is also home to other fascinating geological features like the Painted Desert which is a colorful landscape of badlands.
The park is a great place for hiking camping and wildlife watching.
4.
Monument Valley
Monument Valley is a Navajo Nation Tribal Park in northeast Arizona.
The park is best known for its iconic sandstone formations which have been featured in many movies and television shows.
Monument Valley is also home to a number of ancient ruins like the Mystery Valley ruins which are believed to be the remains of an Anasazi village.
The park is a great place to hike camp and take in the stunning views.
5.
Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend is a horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
The bend is about 4 miles downstream from the Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell.
Horseshoe Bend is a popular spot for photography and it’s easy to see why.
The views of the river and the canyon walls are simply breathtaking.
6.
The Wave
The Wave is a sandstone formation located in the Coyote Buttes area of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.
The formation is composed of two layers of sandstone that have been eroded over time into a series of undulating waves.
The Wave is a popular spot for photography and hiking and permits are required to visit.
The best time to visit is during the cooler months as the heat can be intense in the summer.
7.
Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon located on Navajo land near Page Arizona.
The canyon is known for its stunning red sandstone walls and the beautiful light that filters through them.
Antelope Canyon is a popular spot for photography and tours are offered to both the upper and lower sections of the canyon.
The best time to visit is during the summer when the light is at its best.
8.
The White Mountains
The White Mountains are a mountain range located in eastern Arizona.
The range is home to the tallest mountain in Arizona Humphreys Peak which rises to an elevation of 12637 feet.
The White Mountains are a popular spot for hiking camping and fishing.
In the winter the area is also popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
9.
Sunset Crater Volcano
Sunset Crater is a cinder cone volcano located in the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.
The monument is home to a number of other volcanic features like lava flows and lava tubes.
Sunset Crater is a great place to hike and learn about the area’s volcanic history.
The best time to visit is in the spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
10.
The Painted Desert
The Painted Desert is a must-see for anyone visiting Arizona.
Located in northern Arizona the Painted Desert is a large area of colorful badlands.
The Painted Desert is home to a variety of plants and animals as well as some of the most beautiful sunsets in the state.
A visit to the Painted Desert is a must for anyone interested in desert ecology or geology.