advertisement
22 December 2025
Arizona is a hiker’s paradise, whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual weekend explorer, the state has a trail for every style, season, and skill level. Here are some of the best places to hike in Arizona.
advertisement
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Why It’s Amazing: This iconic red-rock formation offers one of Sedona’s most breathtaking climbs. The trail is steep, hands-on, and rewarding with unforgettable panoramic views.
Difficulty: Strenuous
Why It’s Amazing: One of the most famous urban hikes in the country, Camelback delivers challenging scrambles, busy energy, and sweeping views of the Valley of the Sun.
Difficulty: Strenuous
Why It’s Amazing: As Arizona’s highest point at 12,633 feet, this alpine hike offers cooler weather, wildflowers in the summer, and unbelievable views from above the clouds.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous (permits required)
Why It’s Amazing: Turquoise waterfalls in the middle of the desert make this one of the most bucket-list hikes in the world. It’s remote, refreshing, and unforgettable.
Difficulty: Moderate
Why It’s Amazing: Located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, this granite spire trail features stunning views, desert wildlife, and some of the cleanest, best-marked paths in the region.
Difficulty: Moderate
Why It’s Amazing: A scenic desert hike ending in a spectacular cave shaped like a breaking wave. Perfect for dramatic sunrise photos and peaceful desert vistas.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Why It’s Amazing: Shaded canyons, creek crossings, fall color, and red-rock walls make this one of Arizona’s most beautiful—and most relaxing—hikes.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Why It’s Amazing: A Grand Canyon classic with water stations, rest areas, and incredible views the entire way. Perfect for day hikes or extended canyon adventures.
Difficulty: Strenuous
Why It’s Amazing: Steel cables, scrambling sections, and panoramic desert views make this one of the most adventurous hikes in the state. In spring, wildflowers blanket the mountainside.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Why It’s Amazing: Granite boulders, blue water, and winding trails create one of the most unique landscapes in Arizona. It’s perfect for photography and peaceful morning hikes.
advertisement
From red-rock climbs and pine-covered peaks to waterfall oases tucked deep in canyon walls, Arizona’s hiking scene is unmatched. So lace up, bring plenty of water, and discover why Arizona is one of America’s top hiking states.
advertisement
Long before astronauts set foot on the lunar surface, scientists in Arizona were already studying it in remarkable detail. By the time President John F. Kennedy announced in 1961 that the United States would land a man on the moon before the end of the decade, researchers at the University of Arizona had already begun mapping the moon’s surface. Their work would prove critical to the success of NASA’s robotic missions and the historic Apollo landings. At the center of this effort was Gerard P. Kuiper, widely known as the father of modern planetary science. advertisement The Birth of Lunar
Arizona is a paradise for bird watchers, offering a diverse range of habitats that support both native species and migratory birds. From its desert landscapes to its high-altitude mountains, Arizona is home to an astonishing array of bird species. However, some birds in the state are considered rare, either due to their limited range, dwindling populations, or specific habitat preferences. In this article, we’ll explore some of the rarest birds in Arizona and what makes them so special. advertisement 1. California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) Status: Critically Endangered The California Condor is arguably one of the most iconic rare birds in
Arizona summers can make outdoor play feel impossible, especially in the middle of the day. The good news is there are plenty of affordable, family-friendly options that keep kids cool, active, and entertained without turning it into a big-ticket outing. Below are budget-friendly ideas across the Valley, including museums, indoor play spots with strong reviews, and free or low-cost options for early mornings and evenings. advertisement 1) Affordable Indoor Museums (Air-Conditioned and Worth It) Idea Museum (Mesa) If you have younger kids who love hands-on play, art, and creative exploration, the Idea Museum is a solid summer option. It is
Arizona is known for the Grand Canyon, cactus-filled deserts, and dramatic sunsets. But beyond the obvious, the Grand Canyon State is packed with surprising history, natural oddities, and quirky records. Here are some fun Arizona facts that might just impress your friends at your next trivia night. advertisement 1. Arizona Does Not Observe Daylight Saving Time Most of Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time, which means the state stays on Mountain Standard Time all year long. The exception is the Navajo Nation, which does observe Daylight Saving Time. So you can cross into a different time zone just by
