15 Of The Most Serene Places In Arizona To Unwind After A Crazy Week
By Monica Spencer|Published August 23, 2017
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
Feel like your mind, body, and soul need a time-out from your hectic life? One of my favorite ways to unwind is to head out into nature, where the environment is naturally quiet. You can sit back, listen to the trees sway, birds chirp, and let your mind wander in quiet solitude.
If you think a bit of quiet relaxation is just what you need to rejuvenate, check out this list of our favorite quiet spaces. Each features lovely scenery an d a relaxing environment where you can sit back, reflect on the week, and prepare for the start of a new week.
This first spot is actually perfect for people looking to go for a drive while surrounded by beautiful scenery. A good amount of Apache Trail (also known as State Route 88) features curves and stunning desert scenery. If the weather is cool, roll down your windows and enjoy the fresh air.
This secluded canyon sits about 4 hours northeast of Tucson and is one of the best places to visit if you want to find solitude in nature. The Bureau of Land Management limits canyon visitors to just 50 per day and most days you’ll be lucky to run into another person.
This wildlife refuge sits a short distance from the Colorado River, 25 miles south of Lake Havasu City. Since it is a seasonal home for birds and other wildlife, you’ll find this place to be quiet with areas to sit back and watch nature.
This actually covers a large chunk of wilderness area between Safford and Eagar but you’ll find a beautifully secluded environment for hiking, camping, or just enjoying a quiet picnic. The land here is rugged, remote, and stark, perfect if you’re looking to escape into nature.
This park sits on the Navajo Nation in Chinle and is a lovely sight. You can drive along the rim to reach different overlooks, take a hike down White House Ruin Trail, or even book a guided tour to get deeper into the canyon.
A "wonderland of rocks" is the perfect description of this place and we think you’ll agree that its natural beautiful is simply stunning. You can opt to drive to some of the overlooks or hike one of the many trails here to feel connected with nature.
This hidden gem also sits on the Navajo Nation, approximately 16 miles southeast of Tuba City. You’ll find a strikingly beautiful canyon filled with colorful spires and a completely quiet environment. Just keep in mind that permits through the Navajo Nation are required to hike into the canyon.
This creek extends from Winslow down to the Mogollon Rim so we recommend choosing a trail nearby to check it out. We recommend the Kinder Crossing Trail on the Rim; it is short and offers beautiful views.
Located in southeastern Arizona between Thatcher and Morenci, Gila Box is a desert environment that offers a beautiful water system that both humans and animals enjoy. Here, you can enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, or just watching wildlife.
Lockett Meadow sits on the eastern side of the San Francisco Peaks and is a popular spot to visit in the fall. However, it’s just as lovely in the spring and summer where you’ll find an ideal place to enjoy the mountains and pines.
Not many people know about Madera Canyon, a beautiful area sitting in southern Arizona about one hour south of Tucson. You’ll be able to enjoy a morning hike and spot plenty of wildlife, making this place a nice respite from the desert.
Not to be confused with Red Mountain near Mesa, this extinct volcano offers a unique experience with a trail that is usually pretty quiet. Here, you can walk into the exposed interior of the 740,000 year old volcano.
Forest Road 300 runs along the Mogollon Rim where you can spot gorgeous forest scenery. The drive starts about 10 miles north of Strawberry along State Route 87 and extends all the way down to the Mogollon Rim Visitor Center near Willow Springs Lake.
Located in the Santa Catalina Mountains near Tucson, Rose Canyon Lake is a quiet place where you can reflect on the week, hike, and fish. A campground sits nearby, perfect if you want to extend your stay a day or two.
This natural area follows a portion of the San Pedro River near Sierra Vista, extending from the U.S.-Mexican border northwards to an area near St. David. It’s an area popular for birders, so expect it to be quiet and filled with wildlife if you visit.
Which one do you hope to visit during a free weekend? If you want to share your favorite spot to relax after a long week, feel free to share it with us!