It might seem like 2020 has been going on for ages already, but the year is far from over! We still have many months ahead, so make the most of it at some of Arizona’s most esteemed and bucket list-worthy attractions.
Exploring Arizona is always an adventure, but there’s so much to see beyond our borders! Sign up for our Bucket List Newsletter to see must-visit destinations throughout the nation and inspire your travels, both near and far.
1. Vermillion Cliffs National Monument (Marble Canyon)
Most of us immediately think about The Wave when we hear the words "Vermillion Cliffs," but this nearly 300,000-acre national monument encompasses many more areas of otherworldly rock formations. Towering stone escarpments have been eroded over many millions of years to expose the brilliant swirled strata iconic to the region. Permits are required to hike in Coyote Buttes North (the Wave), Coyote Buttes South, and for overnight trips within Paria Canyon. More information here.
Located along the lush Oak Creek, this popular state park showcases what we all know and love about Sedona: its unmistakable red rocks that stretch powerfully up toward the clouds. Ten developed trails meander through the striking scenery, offering endless adventure for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians alike. In addition to the incredible geological formations, you'll also encounter a plethora of animal and plant life. More information here.
Characterized by its vast expanse of hoodoos and balancing rocks, Chiricahua National Monument is the result of an intense volcanic eruption about 27 million years ago. 85% of the park is protected wilderness, a designation that helps preserve the extremely fragile natural features. This is truly an explorer's wonderland! More information here.
Cavers stumbled upon Kartchner Caverns in 1974, unknowingly discovering what would become one of the country's most popular underground attractions. Delicate formations, including soda straws, helictites, flowstone, and the truly grandiose Kubla Khan that stands six stories tall, have been slowly sculpted over the past 200,000 years. The Kubla Khan formation is the world's largest stalactite! More information here.
Summertime is brutal in Sedona, so what better way to cool off than with a natural waterslide? Slide Rock State Park, which was established over 100 years ago as an apple farm, features half a mile of Oak Creek open for swimming. This 80-foot-long chute is lined with algae, creating a slippery bed perfect for sliding. The park has ranked among the Travel Channel's top 10 swimming holes in the U.S. time and again, so a visit is long overdue if you haven't been yet. More information here.
6. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (Cataract Canyon)
Stretching northward into Utah, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area spans over a million acres. It's home to Lake Powell, the second-largest manmade lake in the U.S. and a premier boating destination. Tour the controversial Glen Canyon Dam, marvel at Horseshoe Bend, embark on backcountry hikes, and so much more. More information here.
Arizona is stereotypically desert -- which is understandable since it makes up much of our landscape -- but come fall, the higher elevations paint an entirely different picture. Aspen groves, like this one in Flagstaff, have leaves that transform into the most magical golden hues in mid-October. Aspen Nature Loop is a short and sweet, 1.6-mile trail that leads through a forest of enchanted proportions. More information here.
Though not the tallest peak in Arizona, Mount Lemmon is certainly the most popular. Visited during summer and winter, it features a ski resort that remains open during the warmer months with different attractions. Explore trails in the Coronado National Forest, indulge in homemade fudge, and rent a cozy cabin tucked away in the pines. Plus, the drive up to the summit on Catalina Highway is an unforgettable experience in and of itself. More information here.
One of the most-visited national monuments in the country, Canyon de Chelly is located on Navajo Nation territory and in the Four Corners region. Its landscape has been continuously inhabited longer than almost anywhere else in America, featuring preserved ruins of various indigenous tribes who lived here throughout the ages. Breathtaking scenic overlooks, geological wonders (like this 800-foot tall Spider Rock spire), and guided tours all showcase this truly one-of-a-kind place. More information here.
Make sure to contact the parks before visiting, as hours may differ from normal.
Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Arizona you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!
One of my best friends and I recently took a trip to Page, Arizona to check a couple of things (namely Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend) off our bucket lists. To get there, it's a 5-hour drive each way. After my friend got off of work, we packed the car with our luggage and road trip snacks and started our journey north. The plan was to stay at Lake Powell Resort in Page for two nights with a stop in Flagstaff on the way back on Sunday to see fall foliage. I wanted to recreate the experience I had last year when the aspens were in their full fall glory!
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About an hour outside of Page, while driving in the pitch dark in our 2WD rental car, it started to snow pretty hard. My friend was white-knuckle driving as we made our way along the winding road in the dark. While the unexpected snowfall was certainly nerve-wracking, as the passenger I decided to distract myself and look up the conditions at Snowbowl in Flagstaff where we intended to see fall foliage in a couple of days. To my surprise, the ski resort had received 8 inches of snow that night. This was the first snowfall of the season.
Since we planned to see the yellow-leafed aspens in Flagstaff on our way back to Scottsdale, it was even more of an incentive to go. Seeing both foliage and snow together in perfect harmony was quickly added to my bucket list that weekend! And the scenery did not disappoint! The vibrant leaves of the aspens along with the newly fallen powder made for some gorgeous scenery. And how cool is it to see such a collision of two seasons — fall and winter?
So, here it is October 2024, and we were able to see golden aspens and snow at the same time in Arizona, of all places! As we wound our way for 7 miles up the mountain, the higher the elevation got, the more fall foliage we saw. And we couldn't believe the hoards of people who turned up at Snowbowl just to see the gorgeous fall and winter scenery. The parking lot was incredibly crowded but, luckily, we found a spot straight away.
For comparison, this is what the fall foliage looked like a year ago in Oct. 2023:
As you can see, the fall foliage took on a much different appearance this year with the arrival of the first snowfall of the season. This precursor to the skiing and snowboarding season at Snowbowl brought nature, fall foliage, and snow lovers out in droves...and what a remarkable experience!
We walked from the main parking lot of the ski resort, then through the snow-covered field to get to the Aspen Nature Loop Trail. My friend and I were ill-prepared as far as clothing was concerned. Luckily I had a jacket as it was only in the mid-50s. However, wearing sneakers instead of snow boots made for a slippery walk. My feet were also soaked from snow getting into my shoes. But was it worth it? Indeed, it was!
I loved seeing how happy everyone seemed on the mountain. Adults were acting like children as they threw snowballs at each other and laughed excitedly at, what I assume, seeing snow for the very first time. And my friend and I were smiling from ear to ear as we took dozens of photos, took videos, and threw snow at each other!
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Seeing fall foliage and snow together in this rare event in Arizona was an incredible experience, and one I hope to have again. Maybe next year...
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
