Top 10 Most Underrated Outdoor Areas in Arizona
Everyone knows that the Grand Canyon is one of the most stunning pieces of natural beauty in the world, but Arizona has so much more to offer adventurers and outdoorsmen. Let's break them down from North to South.
North: Fatman's Loop Trail, Flagstaff
This beautiful trail in Flagstaff hosts a plethora of stunning scenery, from massive Pine Trees to volcanic rock formations, this trail is a surefire way to get in touch with northern Arizona's ecosystem.
North: Picture Canyon, Flagstaff
Despite making you want to take as many pictures as possible while visiting, this canyon is actually named after the large amount of prehistoric art found on the rocks throughout the trail.
North: Island Trail, Flagstaff
700 years ago, Walnut Canyon was home to a large Pueblo community that left behind cave dwellings that you can explore and appreciate while you hike down this mile long trail.
Central: Peralta Trail, Mesa
Located just outside of Mesa, the Peralta trail is a wide-open desert trail showcasing central Arizona's vast expanses and rock formations littering the landscape.
Central: Ajax Mine Trail, Chandler
For those looking for a more challenging trail or off-roading experience, this is the place for you. A rocky, winding path with views of Woodpecker and Ajax Mines, this is the perfect trail to test your hiking skills.
Central: Picketpost Mountain Trail, Superior
Located just outside of Superior, this trail is just as, if not more superior than the city it resides by. This trail is a beautiful hike that gets progressively more difficult but offers phenomenal views of the mountain range it resides in as well as large outcrops of rocks and plenty of local flora.
South: Seven Falls, Tucson
Taking a hike through Sabino Canyon will lead you to Tucson's Seven Falls, which as you can guess, boasts seven water crossings as well as a beautiful waterfall running down the rocky cliffs of the canyon.
South: Miller Canyon, Hereford
Leading up to Miller peak, this canyon is an easy and enjoyable hike through the woods of the Huachuca mountain range, showcasing everything that makes Arizona's ecosystem special along the way.
South: Ramsey Canyon, Sierra Vista
Also located within the Huachuca mountains, Ramsey canyon is unlike anything in the state, housing multiple species of flora and fauna, as well as outlooks that will take even the most experienced outdoorsman's breath away.
South: San Pedro Riparian National Conservatory, Sierra Vista
Home to the San Pedro river, this massive stretch of nature is home to hiking trails, educational material, and ancient ruins, and remains one of the most popular spots for birdwatching in the United States.
Wherever you end up adventuring, make sure to pack smart, be safe, leave nothing but footprints, and most importantly, have fun!
Only True Arizonans Can Pronounce These Words Correctly
Gallery Credit: Val Davidson
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