advertisement
2 January 2022
Among its many natural wonders, Arizona’s National Parks stand out as some of the most iconic and awe-inspiring places in the United States. These parks not only showcase the state’s geological and biological diversity but are also icons of the beauty of America’s natural heritage.
Here’s a look at Arizona’s National Parks and what makes each one unique.
Best For: Iconic Views, Hiking, and Photography
Arguably the most famous park in Arizona (and in the world), Grand Canyon National Park is an absolute must-see. Spanning 277 miles long and over a mile deep, the Grand Canyon is a geological marvel and one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The park offers spectacular views of the canyon’s layered rock formations, which tell the story of over 2 billion years of Earth’s history.
Highlights:
Fun Fact: The Grand Canyon is not just a visual marvel—it is also home to a diverse ecosystem, from desert plants and wildlife to alpine forests at the rim.
Best For: Desert Flora, Wildlife Watching, and Hiking
Located in Tucson, Saguaro National Park is dedicated to preserving the iconic saguaro cactus, the largest cactus species in North America. With over 1.6 million acres of desert landscape, this park provides a stunning glimpse into the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. Saguaro cacti, some of which are over 150 years old, dot the landscape, along with a variety of other desert plants and animals.
Highlights:
Fun Fact: The saguaro cactus can live for up to 200 years and can grow over 40 feet tall!
Best For: Ancient Fossils and Colorful Landscapes
Petrified Forest National Park, located in Northeastern Arizona, is a fascinating combination of fossils, ancient trees, and vibrant landscapes. The park is renowned for its large deposits of petrified wood, some of which date back over 200 million years. The park’s striking painted deserts and blue mesas add to its charm, making it a unique destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Highlights:
Fun Fact: The petrified wood in the park was once part of giant trees that lived in a lush, subtropical forest during the Late Triassic period.
Best For: Rock Formations, Hiking, and Birdwatching
Chiricahua National Monument is located in southeastern Arizona near the border with New Mexico. Known as the “Land of Standing-Up Rocks,” the monument features unique rock formations that were shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The park’s diverse terrain, which ranges from grasslands to high mountain forests, provides a variety of ecosystems for visitors to explore.
Highlights:
Fun Fact: The Chiricahua rock formations were created by volcanic ash flows, and the unique spires are often referred to as “hoodoos.”
Best For: Water Sports and Outdoor Recreation
While not strictly a “traditional” national park, Lake Mead National Recreation Area straddles the border between Arizona and Nevada and is managed by the National Park Service. The park is centered around Lake Mead, one of the largest reservoirs in the U.S., and offers a plethora of recreational opportunities on water and land.
Highlights:
Fun Fact: Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the U.S. by volume, holding up to 28 million acre-feet of water!
advertisement
Arizona during the Wild West era, spanning roughly from the 1860s to the 1890s, was a region marked by adventure, danger, and dramatic change. From lawless boomtowns to resilient settlers, the territory’s unique blend of cultures and challenges shaped its enduring legends. Here are ten captivating facts about what life was like in Arizona during that time: advertisement 1. Lawlessness and Notorious Towns Towns like Tombstone became infamous for their lack of law and order. The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral is just one example of the many violent confrontations between lawmen, outlaws, and vigilantes that defined the era. 2.
The saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) is one of the most iconic symbols of the American Southwest, and for good reason. These towering cacti are found primarily in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona, California, and Mexico, standing tall and proud with their arm-like branches reaching toward the sky. While most people are familiar with the saguaro cactus thanks to Western films and desert landscapes, there are several fascinating facts that many may not know about this unique plant. Here are some intriguing facts about saguaro cacti that may surprise you! advertisement 1. They Can Live Over 150 Years Saguaro cacti are
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 1. Cathedral Rock – Sedona 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. 2. Camelback Mountain – Phoenix Difficulty: Strenuous Why It’s Amazing: One of the most famous urban hikes in the country, Camelback delivers challenging scrambles, busy energy, and
When most people picture Arizona, they imagine cactus-filled deserts and blazing summer heat. But head north or climb in elevation, and a completely different side of the state appears: powdery snow, pine forests, cozy cabins, and ski runs with sweeping mountain views. Arizona’s snowy adventures offer a surprising winter escape for travelers who want chill instead of sizzle. advertisement Where to Find Snow in Arizona Snow in Arizona is all about elevation. The higher the climb, the better the chance of a winter wonderland. Northern and eastern Arizona are the prime regions for cold-weather fun, with pine-covered plateaus and mountain
