All it takes is one day to explore some of the most underrated national parks in Arizona, so what are you waiting for? This 6.5-hour road trip starts at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and ends at Fort Bowie National Historic Site, making a couple of other stops along the way. Get ready to experience the very best of our state's history and nature - with a fraction of the crowds you're used to.
Here is the customizable Google Maps route for the trip.
1. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument (Ajo)
Because of its remote location in extreme southern Arizona, many people aren't even aware that Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument exists. Despite being out of the way, the park - a UNESCO biosphere reserve - is so worth the trip. It's the only place on earth where the funky organ pipe cactus grows wild, and the terrain is full of native wildlife and vegetation. There are dozens of miles of hiking trails to explore, plus developed, primitive, and backcountry camping. Learn more on the park's website.
2. Tumacácori National Historical Park (Tumacacori-Carmen)
Tucked away in the upper Santa Cruz River Valley, Tumacácori National Historical Park protects the ruins of three missions from the Spanish colonial era. It's the oldest mission site in Arizona, dating to 1691. Divided into three separate units, the park details the interactions between the native peoples and foreign missionaries, settlers, and soldiers. There's so much fascinating history here, from a restored church to a museum to a cemetery. Visitors can enjoy either guided (January-March) or self-guided (year-round) tours, plus a nature trail that winds through the grounds. Learn more on the park's website.
3. Coronado National Memorial (Hereford)
Coronado National Memorial pays homage to the first organized expedition into the Southwest, which was led by Francisco Vásquez de Coronado in 1540. The explorers were motivated by the promise of vast cities of gold hidden in the mountains. They found no such treasures, but their journey led to a cultural revolution whose effects are still being felt to this day. Park guests can embark on eight miles of trails, including one that leads to the U.S.-Mexico border. There's also a super cool, 600-foot-long cavern to explore! It's one of the last remaining undeveloped caves in southern Arizona. Learn more on the park's website.
4. Fort Bowie National Historic Site (Bowie)
Last, but certainly not least, our trip takes us to Fort Bowie National Historic Site. A former U.S. Army outpost, the fort saw over two decades of heated clashes between the Chiricahua Apache and American soldiers. The violence has long passed, but it left a tangible mark on the landscape forever preserved by the Historic Site. An easy, three-mile trail meanders through 200-year-old history, and the Visitor Center features a variety of exhibits that help shed light on the conflict. Learn more on the park's website.
Have you ever visited any of these underrated national parks in Arizona? Would you take this road trip? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! And, before you begin your journey, make sure you check out our Road Trip Essentials Packing List & Guide. By following this guide, you'll be prepared for a safe, exciting, and unforgettable road trip in Arizona.
Also, check out our previous article to learn about an Arizona national park where you can hike through a wonderland of rocks.
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