11 Incredible Hidden Gems In Arizona You’ll Want To Discover This Year
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
I’ve lived in the Grand Canyon State for quite a while now and am always amazed at how much there is to see here. Arizona is a huge state with diverse landscapes that include deserts, mountains, canyons, lakes, rivers, and natural wonders making it easy to spend time exploring the great outdoors. There’s also the incredible architecture, top-rated restaurants, small towns, and so many other attributes that make living and visiting here so special. And then there are the hidden gems that many of us still haven’t heard about or visited, and we’re going to learn about a few of those right here, right now! From natural to man-made wonders, from unique to beautiful places, here are some of the best hidden gems in Arizona to discover in 2024.
1. Sunrise Park Resort
Sunrise Park Resort, 200 Highway 273, Greer, AZ 85927, USA
When Arizonans want to go skiing, most tend to head up to Snowbowl in Flagstaff. However, there's another ski resort in the state that's a bit off the beaten path in Arizona. Located in the White Mountains of Greer, Sunrise Park Resort has more ski runs than any other ski resort in the state. Here you can go skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and even ski biking! Make 2024 the year you visit Sunrise Park Resort.
2. Emerald Cave
Emerald Cave, Willow Beach, AZ 86445, USA
With its shimmering emerald green waters, the Emerald Cave is one of the most remarkable hidden beautiful places in Arizona. Located close to the Arizona-Nevada border, you can easily take a kayak tour in order to explore this stunning part of the Colorado River. Visiting the Emerald Cave is a bucket list experience!
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3. Knoll Lake
Knoll Lake, Arizona, USA
For those looking for secret getaways in Arizona, perhaps a trip to Knoll Lake is in order. Located near the Mogollon Rim in the Coconino National Forest, you must drive along forest roads to this pristine lake that seems like a secret oasis once you get there. If you enjoy boating, small watercraft are allowed and there's a boat launch for you to use. Feel free to bring your fishing poles, too! Keep in mind, however, that visitors are not allowed at Knoll Lake in the winter. Spring, summer, and fall are the best times to visit.
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4. Lava River Cave
Lava River Cave, 171B Forest Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA
One of the most unique places to visit in Arizona is the Lava River Cave. Located in Flagstaff, this rare natural wonder is one you must see with your own eyes to believe! Over 700 million years ago, a volcano erupted in the area. Left behind was this mile-long tube cave of hardened lava, and you can explore it! Make sure you bring a light source like a flashlight or a headlamp if you plan on going inside the cave.
5. Mount Graham International Observatory
West Swift Trail, W Swift Trail, Swift Trail Junction, AZ 85546, USA
One of the biggest telescopes in the world also happens to be one of the best-kept secrets in Arizona. Have you ever heard of the Mount Graham International Observatory? Visitors are welcome to view the on-site state-of-the-art Large Binocular Telescope, or LBT, that has been visited by scientists and researchers from around the globe. The observatory is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.; and Saturday from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m.
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6. Holbrook
Holbrook, AZ 86025, USA
Holbrook is an iconic town found along Arizona's Historic Route 66. As one of the most unique places to visit in Arizona, Holbrook is a throwback to a different time period. Its most notable attraction here is the Wigwam Motel which has always seemed like a fun place to stay to me!
7. San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area
Bureau of Land Management San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area Administrative Office, 4070 S Avenida Saracino, Hereford, AZ 85615, USA
San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area is a National Conservation Area that's home to 40 miles of the Upper San Pedro River. If you want to be in nature, this area is ripe with outdoor recreation. Between hiking, mountain biking, and seeing a few historical sites, it's perfect for those looking for non-touristy things to do in Arizona.
8. Sycamore Canyon
Sycamore Canyon, Arizona 86336, USA
Sycamore Canyon seems like one of the best-kept secrets in Arizona. After my partner and I went glamping at Backland in Williams, we took a detour to Sycamore Canyon and we couldn't believe the beauty found here! Secluded and quiet, we pretty much had the entire area to ourselves, only running into two other hikers and observing a few rock climbers. If you want an alternative to the Grand Canyon, I urge you to visit Sycamore Canyon.
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9. Coal Mine Canyon
Coal Mine Canyon, Arizona 86045, USA
Arizona is filled with canyons, although the Grand Canyon seems to get all of the glory. However, Coal Mine Canyon in the Painted Desert is another great alternative. Located in Tuba City within the Navajo Nation, this canyon doesn't see too many visitors. So if you're on the hunt for secret getaways in Arizona, a visit here may be exactly what you need.
10. Bob Bear Trailhead
Bob Bear Trailhead, Strawberry, AZ 85544, USA
For those looking for cool places to visit in Arizona, you must take a hike along the Bob Bear Trailhead in Strawberry. This trail in the Fossil Creek Wilderness Area leads to extraordinary scenery including a cave (Preacher Canyon Cave) and a waterfall. You can even go for a swim here! The trek is a bit strenuous so make sure you're prepared with all of the hiking essentials you'll need.
11. Sonoita Vineyards
Sonoita Vineyards, 290 Elgin Canelo Rd, Elgin, AZ 85611, USA
Located within one of Arizona's three (yes, three wine regions, Sonoita Vineyards is the oldest commercial winery in the state. Absolutely worth the visit, take a tour and head to the tasting room for a wine flight.
Which of these best hidden gems in Arizona will you discover in 2024? Do you know of any others you would add to this list? Let us know!
If you’re in the mood for a road trip, check out the Ultimate Hidden Gem Road Trip, and don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List before you go!
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