The Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona

Some might consider Arizona simply a desert; however, visiting its national parks and monuments reveals a diverse world waiting to be explored. From dense woodlands in the Grand Canyon to the vibrant landscapes of the Petrified Forest, Arizona is a treasure trove of natural beauty.

Grand Canyon National Park

Best National Park for Families

The awe-inspiring Grand Canyon National Park spans over 1.2 million acres, featuring both the South Rim (open year-round) and the North Rim (closed from mid-October to mid-May). For those who prefer not to drive, seasonal shuttle services are available.

The South Rim offers stunning vistas and well-maintained paths, including the iconic Bright Angel Trail, which winds down to the Colorado River and Phantom Ranch. During busy summer months, utilizing the free village shuttle is recommended for easy access to attractions like the geology museum and Yaki Point.

Exploring the historical Hopi House can provide insight into Indigenous cultures through artifacts and arts such as Navajo rugs. The North Rim, located at 8000 feet elevation, offers a quieter experience with scenic drives and trails leading to breathtaking vistas.

Saguaro National Park

Best National Park for Experiencing the Sonoran Desert

Famous for its massive saguaro cacti, the Saguaro National Park is a must-visit in the Sonoran Desert. The park is divided into two districts: Rincon Mountain District (Saguaro East) and Tucson Mountain District (Saguaro West), located near the city of Tucson.

Visitors can encounter diverse flora, with saguaros reaching impressive heights of up to 50 feet. For an unforgettable experience, visit between April and June when these cacti bloom. Scenic drives, such as the Cactus Forest Drive, lead to interesting hiking trails and picnic spots.

For those eager to delve deeper into the park’s history, the Signal Hill Trail offers a short hike to ancient petroglyphs created by the Hohokam people. Diverse wildlife, including desert tortoises, can also be spotted here.

Petrified Forest National Park

Best National Park for 200-Million-Year-Old Fossils

Despite its name, Petrified Forest National Park boasts remarkable beauty. Located approximately 110 miles east of Flagstaff, this park is known for its striking badlands and ancient petrified wood formations.

With over 50,000 acres of wilderness, visitors are likely to encounter a variety of wildlife early in the morning, from badgers to foxes. Hiking trails such as the Crystal Forest and the Blue Forest provide opportunities to view ancient fossils up close.

Moreover, Agate House offers a glimpse into the lives of ancient Puebloan people who lived in the area. The 1940 Painted Desert Inn, once built from petrified wood, showcases murals by Hopi artists and is a testament to the region’s architectural history.

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Best National Monument for Backcountry Exploration

Settled between the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and the Utah border, the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a remote area perfect for solitude. Stretching across 280,000 acres, this monument features breathtaking canyons and cliffs.

Planning ahead is essential, as many areas require permits for both camping and hiking. A notable exploration area is Coyote Buttes North, which houses the swirled sandstone formation known as the Wave, accessible via a 6-mile round trip hike.

For those who prefer not to trek, State Route 89A provides scenic overlooks and easy access to the Vermilion Cliffs Condor Release Viewing Site, where visitors can observe endangered California condors in their natural habitat.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Best Monument for Cliff Dwellings

Located in Verde Valley, the Montezuma Castle National Monument was established in 1906 to preserve the heritage of Indigenous communities. Built by the Sinagua people, the well-preserved cliff dwelling exemplifies advanced architectural techniques.

Visitors can explore the historic site, which dates back to approximately 1050 CE, and witness how its design helped regulate temperatures. The nearby Montezuma Well reveals ancient irrigation channels and provides habitats for various endemic species.

This article reflects the beauty and significance of Arizona’s national parks and monuments, inviting everyone to experience the stunning landscapes and rich history that this unique state offers.