With a dazzling array of amazing sights, Arizona’s
desert climate is home to some astounding geological formations and canyons that are well
worth exploring. The Grand Canyon, for example, is one of the United States’ most famous sights, while the impressive Monument Valley
certainly gives it a run for its money. With Indian reservations making up
almost a quarter of Arizona’s area, there are lots of interesting archaeological,
historical and cultural sites relating to Native American culture for tourists to enjoy. The state
cities are fun and friendly places to stop by and there is some great nightlife to boot. Here’s
a look at the best places to visit in Arizona: Number 10. Antelope Canyon. The winding, twisting cracks of Antelope Canyon
are mesmerizing to wander around, as sunbeams enchantingly snake their way along the sandstone
walls, illuminating and bathing the soft red tones in resplendent light. A beautiful sight to
behold, the two different parts of Antelope Canyon are both well worth visiting; their distinctive
features have led them to be respectively nicknamed ‘The Crack’ and ‘The Corkscrew’. While
they each have their own unique look, in both parts the rock appears to be flowing, thanks to
the shapes created by the erosion of the rock. Number 9. Horseshoe Bend.
Located just outside of Page, the awe-inspiring Horseshoe Bend lies within
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in the north of Arizona. Formed over the millennia by the
Colorado River, it is named for its distinctive horseshoe-shape, which sees craggy cliffs curve
around the roaring river below. Horseshoe Bend is very popular among tourists and many people hike
the short distance to its prominent viewpoint. Towering more than 300 metres above the river,
this offers stunning views of the natural marvel, with sunset being the best time of day
to view Horseshoe Bend in all its glory. Number 8. Meteor Crater. Set just 37 miles to the east of Flagstaff is
the massive and majestic Meteor Crater Natural Landmark. Billed as the ‘best-preserved meteorite
crater on Earth,’ it’s now a popular attraction, with sightseeing tours, a discovery center,
and 4D experience room. Stretching over 4,000 feet in diameter and reaching a depth
of 570 feet, the captivating crater certainly makes for an impressive sight. Formed
around 50,000 years ago by a mighty meteorite, its rugged rim towers above the arid plains
of the Arizona desert that lie around it. Number 7. Flagstaff. Lying alongside Route 66 with the splendid
San Francisco Peaks looking out over it, Flagstaff is a charming and laid-back
place that has many different aspects. While wandering around town, you’ll find lots
of old architecture that dates back to when the city was an important railroad town, as
well as atmospheric coffee shops and bars catering to Flagstaff’s
large university population. With some great hiking and skiing in the country's
largest ponderosa pine forest. Combining nature, this college town is well worth stopping by when
in Arizona or on your way to the Grand Canyon. Number 6. Canyon de Chelly. One of the most visited national monuments in the
country, Canyon De Chelly has been inhabited for over five thousand years. The canyon walls protect
and shelter some amazing old buildings that date back to the days of the Ancestral Puebloans. Since
the Navajos began calling it home in the 1700’s, the canyon has tragically been the site of
numerous massacres, with both the Spanish and US Army having persecuted the Native Americans.
Nowadays, the site is owned and run by the Navajo and there are a number of great trails
and horseback tours available to visitors. Number 5. Monument Valley. Iconic in look, Monument Valley’s incredible
geological features have starred in TV commercials, featured in films and appeared
in magazine ads. As such, they are instantly recognizable around the world. Surrounded by a
desolate and featureless desert that stretches almost interminably, the massive sandstone buttes
rear impressively towards the heavens, their vivid reds, and oranges standing out against the blue
sky. Beautiful to behold, the ‘Valley Between the Rocks’ – as it was dubbed by the Navajo
– is a must-see place when visiting Arizona. Number 4. Petrified Forest National Park. Famed for its amazing scenery, Petrified Forest
National Park can be found in eastern Arizona, not far from the New Mexico border. Founded in
1906, the park preserves the remarkable remains of the ancient trees and logs after which it
is named. Dating back a scarcely believable 225 million years, the kaleidoscopic colors of
the petrified trees are bewitchingly beautiful, particularly when they shimmer in the sun.
While they are the park’s standout sight, there are also the beguiling badlands,
home to incredible archaeological sites and pretty petroglyphs. At the Painted Desert
Visitor Center and Rainbow Forest Museum, visitors can learn about the area’s
interesting history, geology, and nature. Number 3. Havasu Falls. Appearing in television shows
and magazines, Havasu Falls ranks as one of Arizona’s most photographed
attractions. Owned by the Havasupai Tribe, this stunning waterfall consists of one cataract
that plunges 120 feet into a natural swimming pool of blue-green water that stands in striking
contrast against a background of red canyon wall. Shady cottonwood trees and picnic tables surround
the waterfall where visitors can relax and picnic. The experience of getting to the site is
every bit as fantastic as the waterfall itself. To reach it, visitors can opt for an 8 mile
hike or take a helicopter ride to Supai village. Number 2. Sedona. While the jaw-dropping red sandstone formations
are the undoubted highlight of what Sedona has to offer, there is lots more to see and do.
Nestled amid the beautiful rock formations, Sedona is considered sacred by Native Americans
and people come here to heal themselves and seek spiritual enlightenment. There are
many shops selling alternative medicines and lots of spas for visitors to relax
in. With lots of great restaurants, as well as numerous art galleries to explore,
the town can get a bit busy during summer, although the stunning scenery
more than makes up for it. Number 1. Grand Canyon. Renowned throughout the world, the Grand Canyon is
awe-inspiring to visit and the beautiful panoramas are simply breathtaking. Gigantic in size and
scale, the views from the edge of the canyon are incredible, as you look out over the rock face
dropping away below you and the dramatic vista stretches towards the horizon. The arid and
desolate terrain is peaceful yet picturesque and indeed a powerful place to
explore. A simply incredible place, the Grand Canyon is undoubtedly the
highlight of what Arizona has to offer.
