People travel to our state from all over the globe to see its immense natural beauty. This list isn't anywhere near comprehensive, but it highlights seven of our favorite spots that are absolute must-visits in the Grand Canyon State. The drive takes about 15 hours total, so it's perfect for a weekend tour de force of Northern Arizona! Without further ado, here is our ultimate Arizona natural wonders road trip:
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1. Barringer Meteor Crater, Winslow
This incredible piece of history was formed over 50,000 years ago when a giant meteorite crashed into the Arizona desert at unimaginable speeds. It's a designated National Natural Landmark, and is said to be the best-preserved meteor crater on Earth.
2. The Wave, Kanab
With an almost otherworldly appearance, this undulating sandstone rock formation is one of Arizona's most popular tourist attractions. Only 20 visitor permits are granted each day, so you'll truly feel like the last person on Earth (or the first on another planet) if you win an entry.
3. Horseshoe Bend, Page
Once a hidden gem, this unique natural wonder resembling its namesake has recently seen a rapid increase in visitor traffic. A lookout area can be accessed via a 1.5-mile round trip hike, so minimal effort is required to experience this breathtaking place. This is one of those stops on this Arizona natural wonders road trip that you will truly never forget.
4. Antelope Canyon, Page
Eons of erosion formed this mystical slot canyon, smoothing the hard rock into flowing pieces of art. As it is located on Navajo land, public access to the canyon has only been allowed since 1997, and accessing it requires accompaniment by a tour guide. (For more information about tours, visit the Antelope Canyon website.)
5. Grand Canyon National Park
Need we say more? The right words to describe this bucket list destination do not even exist. Not only is the Grand Canyon one of Arizona's seven wonders, but it also tops lists of must-visit locales encompassing the entire world.
6. Havasu Falls, Supai
A high concentration of calcium carbonate creates the striking blue-green water that Havasu Falls is famous for, but it really must be seen to be believed. Photos simply don’t do it justice. There’s a campground located nearby, but you'll need to reserve a permit ahead of time to visit the falls due to their location within Havasupai tribal lands.
7. Hoover Dam
Straddling the Arizona-Nevada border, Hoover Dam was constructed during the Great Depression by thousands of workers. It impounds Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, and millions of people bask in its glory each year.
Who are you bringing on this road trip? What other natural wonders would you add? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to share photos from your wondrous adventures in our Arizona Nature Lovers Facebook group! We love to see them.
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