These 14 Places In Arizona Will Inspire You To Unplug And Enjoy Nature At Her Finest
By Monica Spencer|Published October 14, 2016
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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.
Have you heard of “unplugging?” No, it’s not some new, weird trend, or at least it shouldn’t be. Unplugging is the simple act of stepping away from (and powering off) your tech devices for a multitude of reasons. It can last for the duration of dinner to better enjoy your relationship with others or a few days while camping. In fact, it’s what our ancestors have done in the centuries before us; they didn’t feel compelled to record every moment of their lives.
Since Arizona contains so much beauty, I think taking advantage of unplugging to enjoy the views and experiences of nature is one of the best ways to enjoy nature. You can do this anywhere but if you want to know of some places that deserve your undivided attention, we’ll provide a list right here for you. Who knows what wonders you may discover when your camera isn’t glued to your face?
Okay, you might not be able to get a good cell signal here anyway (nor would you in some of the other places on this list) but since every other tourist here has their hands firmly on their phones and cameras, you may be the only one experiencing it without technology.
Our state jewel, the Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic places to visit in the world. There’s so much to see and do here that you should consider spending at least an hour enjoying the views without the interruption of a text or email.
Actually, enjoying this place without technology firmly attached to your head might be a great safety precaution when visiting Horseshoe Bend since there are no railings to protect you from falling off the cliff.
You might actually be too busy hiking or fishing to spend your time perusing Facebook when visiting the Rim but, if you need some convincing, it can help you keep an eye out for bears.
If you manage to get a cell signal out here, I’m envious of you because it beats my cheap service. While you definitely deserve a portrait in front of the Mittens, try spending some time hiking the Wildcat Trail or going on a guided tour...without your cell phone.
One of the highest peaks in the state, Mount Lemmon and the Santa Catalinas it calls home are a stunning spot and the reason Tucson occasionally gets snow. Definitely take the time to explore this area because most people just drive through.
Often called one of the prettiest areas in the state, Oak Creek Canyon combines water, red sandstone, deciduous trees, petroglyphs, and other beautiful aspects of Arizona in one spot!
The landscape changes so quickly here that you don’t want to chance missing the transition between the different colors, textures, land formations, and other sights you’ll find here.
This underrated place in the state is definitely one gorgeous spot that deserves your attention with its rugged landscapes and wildlife trotting through.
At the Peaks you’ll find the highest summit in Arizona, the only tundra in the state, scores of aspen, hiking trails, wildlife, and gorgeous views. Who has time to fiddle with a cell phone when visiting this place?
This is the oldest surviving European structure in Arizona and has some incredible, intricate designs throughout. Take your time when touring and soak in all the little details you’ll find.
Rugged, majestic, and, at times, mysterious, the Superstitions definitely deserve your undivided attention in order to fully appreciate the desert landscape and flora.
Holy spumoni, this national monument has one stunning view after another! You’ll find plenty of examples as to why red sandstone should be our state rock.
The White Mountains are an undervisited location but also one place where stepping away from your tech devices will give you a new appreciation for the wilderness around you.
