Arizona is a vast country home to some of the most stunning water attractions in the Southwest. From gushing waterfalls to tranquil lakes, this place has it all. Whether someone is looking for a family-friendly adventure or a romantic getaway, they will find the perfect spot for your next aquatic outing. In this article, we will be highlighting 8 of the best water places to visit in Arizona.
From Havasu Falls to Lake Powell, there is something for everyone. Hence, get ready to explore the most awe-inspiring places this place offers.
Water Places to Visit in Arizona
Here are the details of the 11 best water places to visit in Arizona:
1- Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a magnificent slot canyon in Northern Arizona on Navajo Nation land near Page. This breathtaking location features some of the world’s most stunning and awe-inspiring sandstone formations.
Moreover, its towering red, orange, and pink sandstone walls create an almost surreal setting, making it a popular destination for photographers, hikers, and sightseers alike. Due to its delicate nature, visitors to Antelope Canyon must take guided tours. Visitors will be rewarded with some of this spot’s most spectacular views.
2- Sedona
Sedona is a small town located in Arizona’s high desert, and it is known for its stunning red rock formations. From the surrounding mesas to the vibrant colors of the sandstone, this spot provides visitors with an unforgettable landscape that can be admired from many different angles.
Whether you are hiking, biking, or exploring the local shops, Sedona has something for everyone. You can also take advantage of its beautiful rivers and streams, with kayaking and swimming opportunities in Oak Creek or the Verde River. Its scenic views, great food, and outdoor activities make it the perfect place for a relaxing family vacation.
3- The Huge Canyon
The Canyon is a natural wonder of the world. It is a popular tourist destination in the U.S. due to its stunning views and expansive size. The Grand Canyon stretches over 277 miles and reaches depths 6,000 feet below the Canyon’s rim.
Besides this, Visitors can explore the Canyon’s many trails, take in awe-inspiring views from the South Rim, or take a rafting trip down the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon is an incredible place to visit and a must-see if you’re visiting Arizona.
4- Havasu Falls
Located in the Havasupai Indian Reservation, Havasu Falls is one of Arizona’s most eye-catching and impressive waterfalls. The unique color of the turquoise blue waters and the stunningly red rocks make it a magical sight to behold. The waterfall is accessible by a 10-mile hike from the reservation’s tourist office.
The journey is arduous but well worth it for an experience of a lifetime. When you arrive at the falls, you can take a refreshing dip in the pool beneath them or explore the nearby caves and canyons. Havasu Falls is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, so take advantage of this incredible natural wonder.
5- Slide Rock State Park
Located in Oak Creek Canyon near Sedona, Slide Rock State Park is a stunning place to visit. Home to the red-rock formations and canyon walls, this park offers visitors the opportunity to experience some of Arizona’s most beautiful outdoor areas. The namesake for the park is its natural water slide, a natural stone formation that creates an artificial flume.
Visitors can cool off in the crystal-clear water and enjoy the beautiful scenery while they do it. Plenty of other activities, such as fishing, swimming, and camping, are available in the park. The surrounding trails are perfect for hiking or horseback riding, offering stunning views of the Canyon and surrounding nature.
6- Jerome
Jerome is a charming little town in the Black Hills of Arizona with an incredible view of the Verde Valley. It was once home to the copper mining industry and has become an artist community with many exciting things to explore.
It is surrounded by several canyons and creeks, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing. There are also plenty of trails and historical sites to explore. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive around town, visit some of the many wineries, and explore the shops and restaurants in downtown Jerome.
7- Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is a stunning natural formation near Payson, Arizona. The park is home to the world’s most significant natural travertine bridge. Also, it stands 183 feet high and spans 400 feet long and 150 feet wide. This bridge is thought to have been formed over thousands of years through water erosion.
Visitors can take in the stunning sights of the bridge from various vantage points throughout the park. There are also trails for hiking and camping spots where visitors can camp out and explore the surrounding area. Wildlife in the park includes mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, elk, and more. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to this place.
8- Lake Powell
Lake Powell is an artificial reservoir located on the Colorado River, straddling the border of Utah. The lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering boating, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and camping opportunities.
The towering red sandstone cliffs surrounding the lake provide a breathtaking backdrop for these activities, making Lake Powell one of the most beautiful and unique destinations in the American Southwest.
9- Colorado River
The Colorado River is a significant waterway in the western United States. It spans over 1,400 miles from its headwaters in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to its delta in Mexico. Also, it’s a vital water source for millions of people, providing irrigation for crops and drinking water for many communities.
One of the most popular ways to experience this place is by rafting through the Grand Canyon carved by the river. This unforgettable adventure takes visitors on a multi-day journey through towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas. Visitors can spot diverse wildlife, hike to hidden waterfalls, and enjoy thrilling rapids.
10- Watson Lake
Watson Lake in Arizona is a stunning destination that allows visitors to experience the beauty of the great outdoors. As one of the most popular lakes in the area, Watson Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal location for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and boating.
Visitors to Watson Lake can enjoy various activities, from taking a scenic drive around the lake to exploring the surrounding wilderness on foot. The lake’s rocky shoreline and towering boulders create a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventures. At the same time, the clear blue waters provide a refreshing respite from the heat of the Arizona sun.
11- Lake Mead
As a visitor to Lake Mead in Arizona, you will be awed by the stunning natural beauty of this vast and expansive lake. Stretching over 112 miles, it is the largest reservoir in the United States by volume. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Mead are perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking. You can rent a boat, take a guided tour, or relax on one of the many beaches and soak up the sun.
In addition to the lake’s recreational opportunities, there are also many hiking trails to explore, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape. Lake Mead’s area is home to a variety of wildlife that provides an opportunity to experience the natural beauty and diversity of the region.
Conclusion
Arizona is home to many stunning water places that are worth visiting. There is something for everyone, from the majestic Grand Canyon to the tranquil Havasu Falls. Lake Powell and the Colorado River offer water sports and boating opportunities, while Oak Creek Canyon and Slide Rock State Park provide refreshing swimming holes. The beauty of these water places is unmatched, and they will leave visitors with unforgettable memories of Arizona’s natural wonders.
FAQs about Water Places to Visit in Arizona
The most transparent water in Arizona can be found at Havasu Falls, located in the Grand Canyon. The blue-green water results from minerals in the rocks and has a visibility of up to 100 feet.
Lake Powell is widely considered the best lake to visit in Arizona. It boasts beautiful blue waters and impressive red rock formations, which makes it a popular destination for boating, fishing, and sightseeing.
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