Arizona

While the Grand Canyon is full of spectacular views, one particular spot has always been a favorite due to the relatively easy access and the ability to separate from all of the action. To access the sunset nook, start at the Grandview Trailhead at the South Rim (a 16 minute drive from the main V...

Canyon Lake is located in a National Recreation Area. It was created by the damming of the Salt River, in Arizona, specifically by the Morman Flat Dam. The lake sits at an elevation of 1,660' and has a mean depth of 130', and an area of 1.484 mi². We launched our kayaks from the boat launch area ...

These old ruins on the side of old route 66 in the town of Two Guns Arizona. The ruins themselves are very photogenic and worth a stop at. Be careful of snakes and the structural dangers of old ruins. This is a fun stop along the side of the highway to take photographs and watch the sunset.

As the third longest trail in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, the Freedom Trail provides a great option for those looking for a longer hike, which can also be made even a bit longer by bolting on the Piestewa Summit hike along the way (adds 1.2 miles additional and a view from the top!). Many look...

From the trail-head you will follow the old and wide dirt road for a while until you reach the wilderness fence line. It's easy to get lost. When you reach the fence there's an area to go through. It's difficult to see. Make sure you look closely. DO NOT follow the signs that say "trail". Once yo...

This hike is a great beginner hike for those who want to experience the beauty of the Superstitions. I suggest going early in the morning because this trail gets very crowded later in the day (especially on weekends). To get to the trailhead from US60, turn north onto Kings Ranch Road where you ...

So to fully enjoy the theme of this hike, make sure to try and go right after a rain. But also know that since this is a pretty easy hike, you will won't be the only one there. This is also a great hike/ waterfall to do with someone that is new to desert hiking, since it is relatively easy and th...

Although short, the Blue Forest Trail is one of the most unexpectedly coolest hikes I've been on.  It's kind of strange to hike in what used to be a dense forest/swamp area that is now a barren desert full of petrified wood. Parking for this trail is just north of the Blue Mesa Loop in a pullout...

The Superstition Wilderness is a stunning 160,200 acre area outside Apache Junction, AZ, with over 170 miles of (variously maintained) trail networks. There are any number of trips you can design to fit your time and skill level. This adventure offers a three day/ two night backpacking trip cover...

The trail begins just outside of the Grand Canyon village at the Bright Angel Trailhead. The hike begins to descend immediately in continuous switchbacks. The trail can get very icy so shoe traction devices, while not necessary, are very useful. Along the trail there are rest houses at the 1/3 an...

27 million years ago, a large volcanic eruption in the Chiricahua Mountains left behind volcanic ash which eroded into the hoodoos and balancing rocks at Chiricahua National Monument aka The Wonderland of Rocks. The rock formations are very similar to Bryce National Park and the best part...you w...

If you’re looking for spacious campsites, starry skies, wooded hiking trails, and peaceful surroundings, Marshall Lake in Flagstaff, AZ is the perfect campground for you! Marshall Lake is located about 9 miles south of Flagstaff on Forest Highway 3 (Lake Mary Road). Turn left (east) on Forest Roa...

Cathedral Canyon is located just south of Page, Arizona and west of Coppermine Road and is entirely on Navajo Land, so access is possible only by permission from a local or with a permit from one of the licensed tour companies, of which Chief Tsosi is currently the only one permitted to give perm...

Just a little bit east of Payson Arizona is a canyoneering playground called Christopher Creek Canyon (aka Box Canyon). The water is nice and cold, and is only muddy after rainstorms. Make your way from pool to pool as you descend through the canyon, cliff jumping, rappelling, and down climbing. ...

25 miles east of the Grand Canyon Visitor's Center is Desert View, here you will find the Desert View Watchtower and plenty of space to set up a tripod to photograph the sunset. Make sure to arrive early to get a good spot, even though this location is less trafficked compared to the Visitor's Ce...

The Shaw Butte Trail is a short loop hike that leads you to the top of Shaw Butte in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve.  Beginning from the trailhead on Central Avenue, The first section of trail follows a steady uphill service road to the top.  Near the top you'll find an array of towers and a good...