You Can't Afford To Miss These 9 Free Outdoor Activities In Arizona
By Monica Spencer
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Published March 21, 2018
We don’t have to tell you that Arizonans are a lucky bunch to be living among some of the loveliest landscapes in the country. Mountains, canyons, forests, deserts, and many other beautiful environments surround us. So, to celebrate that, we’re taking a look at 9 fun outdoor activities you can enjoy without having to pay a single dollar! Let’s explore the beauty nature has to offer.
1. Walk through the chilly confines of Lava River Cave near Flagstaff.
This lava tube is just 0.75 miles long, so it's a pretty short adventure that will show you what Arizona looks like underground. Just remember to bring a jacket to stay warm (the cave's temperatures stay around 42-degrees), bring a couple of light sources, and be wary of slippery rocks as ice sometimes forms down here!
Details:
U.S. Forest Service
2. Enjoy watching the sunset at South Mountain Park in Phoenix.
This is one activity you can do that won't require you to travel too far. Check the time for the day's sunset, choose your favorite trail, and get ready to see one fantastic view!
Details:
City of Phoenix
3. Or watch the sunrise from Camelback Mountain, also in Phoenix.
If you're up for a challenging hike before your day begins, then you definitely won't want to miss out on watching the sunrise while hiking on Camelback Mountain. These trails are fairly difficult, so make sure you're prepared for a steep climb and bring plenty of water.
Details:
City of Phoenix
4. Head out for a drive on Arizona's curviest road, Coronado Scenic Trail Byway.
The only amount you'll spend is gas money, but if you're driving between Clifton and Alpine, you might as well enjoy this drive! The road has more than 460 curves and plenty of beautiful views.
Details:
Only In Your State
5. Experience the possibilities of an energy vortex at Airport Mesa in Sedona.
The jury is still out if an energy vortex really exists here but if you're a believer, then you'll want to check it out for yourself. The entire hike can take up to 2.5 hours, so be sure to bring plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.
Details:
U.S. Forest Service
6. Spend a day watching hummingbirds flit around at Tucson's Paton Center for Hummingbirds.
If spending a day birding sounds like your cup of tea, then head out to the Paton Center for Hummingbirds, where 213 different birds have been spotted! Be sure to bring your camera or drawing materials so that you can capture the beauty seen here.
Details:
Tucson Audubon Society
7. Enjoy a short day hike on Aspen Nature Loop in Flagstaff.
There are plenty of incredible trails in the Flagstaff area but we like this easy one because you can enjoy the views with just about everyone in your family. The hike is just 2.5 miles and you'll be treated to some amazing views of the landscape throughout the year!
Details:
U.S. Forest Service
8. Check out a little hidden box canyon at Keyhole Sink near Williams.
Not all Arizona canyons are massive! This one near Williams is on the small side but has all the beautiful attractions you hope to find in one of our canyons: a seasonal waterfall, petroglyphs, and plenty of wildlife wandering nearby.
Details:
U.S. Forest Service
9. Hike to Arizona Hot Spring just off the Colorado River.
Located in western Arizona near Hoover Dam, this hot spring is a great hidden spot to enjoy a hot soak on a cool spring day. The hike is approximately 6 miles and will take you through plenty of desert terrain, so be sure to plan this trip before summer arrives.
Details:
National Park Service
How many of these activities have you done before? We would also love to hear some of your favorite outdoorsy activities that you enjoy and where!
Looking for more fun things to do in Arizona? Take a look at our previous article, The 11 Very Best Places To Go In Arizona This Spring , for some fantastic suggestions.
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