6 Natural Wonders In Arizona That Are Just As Beautiful In Every Season
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Katie Lawrence
Author
The Grand Canyon State is a nature lover’s dream – not only because we’re blessed with so many incredible places to explore, but also because some of the most iconic natural wonders in Arizona are just as beautiful in every season. From snowcapped mountains to valleys covered in spring wildflowers to fall foliage that belongs on a postcard, there is no shortage of natural beauty in the state we’re lucky enough to call home.
Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536, USA
Characterized by its signature red sandstone buttes that tower at heights of up to 1,000 feet, Monument Valley is a classic Arizona natural wonder that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime - no matter what season it is. In the winter, the ground is covered in a fine dusting of snow, reminiscent of powdered sugar, that stands in stark contrast to the maroon hue of the landscape. You'll be amazed at the views year-round.
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Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA
Of course, our beloved Grand Canyon deserves a spot on the last. While the park sees the bulk of its visitors during summer, the South Rim remains open all year, and wintertime visitors get to enjoy some rare peace and quiet in this world-famous destination.
San Francisco Peaks, Arizona 86001, USA
Whether admired via hike, scenic drive, or gondola ride, Flagstaff's San Francisco Peaks are an incredible sight to behold. The mountain range, which is actually a group of ancient volcanoes that last erupted around 400,000 years ago, is home to Humphreys Peak, Arizona's tallest mountain, which rises to a height of more than 12,000 feet. From the miles of gilded aspen trees that surround the mountains during fall to the plethora of eye-popping wildflowers that sprout up in the spring, these eponymous peaks are a treat to visit in every season.
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Bell Rock, Arizona 86351, USA
One of Sedona's famed "energy vortexes," Bell Rock is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Arizona. A relatively easy trail skirts around its base, allowing hikers to enjoy up-close views of the monolith. If you've never seen Bell Rock in the winter, get ready for your frozen jaw to drop to the ground - plus, traipsing through the snow is half the fun!
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Saguaro National Park, Arizona, USA
Southern Arizona rarely sees significant amounts of snow, so when the white stuff does fall from the sky, it's a miracle worth witnessing firsthand. Saguaro National Park is home to more than two million Saguaro cacti, and it's the only region on Earth where the iconic desert plant grows wild. Snowcapped Saguaros are a uniquely Arizona phenomenon that's truly breathtaking. The park is just as bucket list-worthy in all other seasons, as well.
Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Chinle, AZ, USA
Canyon de Chelly National Monument is a truly fascinating place. Indigenous peoples have lived (and still do live) in the canyon for nearly 5,000 years, and visitors get the rare opportunity to learn from and gain insight into their sacred customs and ways of life. Seeing the canyon floor blanketed in snow evokes feelings of enchantment that few other places can match, and each of the seven overlook points offers a different perspective. Please note that most of the park is only accessible via guided tour.
How many of these natural wonders in Arizona have you visited? What’s your favorite season to visit them in? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
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