Arizona is the land of canyons and the largest, most popular one is the appropriately named Grand Canyon. But did you know that our state has a “second Grand Canyon?” It’s true—and it’s a place definitely worth visiting.

1. Measuring 21 miles long and, in places, 7 miles wide, Sycamore Canyon is considered to be the second-largest canyon in Arizona.
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
By comparison, the Grand Canyon is 277 miles long!
2. It is also the oldest designated wilderness area in the state, earning that protection designation in 1972 and for good reason.
Frances/Flickr
3. The canyon has a rich natural environment that ranges from a desert riparian area...
Alan English CPA/Flickr
4. ...to impossibly green, dense forest as you head north.
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
5. You can even find this spectacular paradise when exploring the canyon, which can be difficult to access but has a waterfall and swimming hole.
Kaibab National Forest/Flickr
I want to go to there.

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6. That same spot, located in the northern section of the canyon, is rich in basalt rock formations that are perfect for rock climbing and rappelling.
Alan English CPA/Flickr
7. The wildlife you'll find here is numerous and diverse as well! In fact, Sycamore Canyon is well-known for its ideal wildlife viewing opportunities.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters/Flickr
8. You'll also find quite a few trails running through the canyon.
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
A couple of popular trails include Parson's Trail #144 and Kelsey Trail #3.
9. Those trails will lead you to creeks, waterfalls, and springs, large and small!
Alan English CPA/Flickr
You might even come across some archaeological sites, such as cliff dwellings and old homesteads.
10. Finally, one of the best parts? It's a place where you can seek and find solitude.
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
Sycamore Canyon is visited far less often than its more popular neighbor, Oak Creek Canyon. If you want to know about this wilderness area, its trails, and how to access it, check out the National Forest website for more information.

Want to check out more of Arizona’s canyons? Get a head start on your bucket list by reading our article that features 15 underrated canyons in Arizona.

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