Kartchner Caverns State Park.

While Kartchner Caverns State Park undeniably offers a fascinating underground adventure and is worth the admission fee and journey it takes to see it, it falls to the bottom of my list compared to other cave systems I've visited. Having visited other epic sites like Carlsbad Caverns National Park. in New Mexico, and Marengo Cave …

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Ah-Pah Interpretative Trail at Redwood National Park: Short but Great.

One of the easiest hikes I've ever done, the Ah-Pah Interpretative Trail offers an enjoyable and accessible hiking experience within Redwood National Park. Originally a 20th-century logging road, it has been transformed into a family-friendly trail, making it perfect for visitors of all ages, including my seven-year-old daughter, who walked it effortlessly. While it may …

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The Magnificent Cliff Palace of Mesa Verde National Park.

As the largest cliff dwelling in North America, the Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde National Park is truly a sight to behold. It's impressive whether you're viewing it from afar, across the valley on the viewing platforms, or up close and personal during the Cliff Palace tour. I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing both perspectives. …

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Upper Antelope Canyon: The Place Where Water Runs Through the Rocks.

In the northeast corner of Arizona, near the small town of Page, lies a natural wonder that everyone should visit at least once: Upper Antelope Canyon. This otherworldly and breathtaking site perfectly encapsulates the beauty of the American Southwest, a crown jewel of the Arizonan desert. Like its sister canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon: The Hidden …

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The Seven Sacred Pools & Soldier Pass Cave of Sedona.

Ahhh, Sedona – a magical place widely regarded as one of Arizona's most popular and beautiful spots. It’s a stunning area brimming with hiking trails and endless opportunities for exploration. Among the countless locations in Sedona, the Seven Sacred Pools and Soldier Pass Cave stand out as particularly well-known and sought-after. Their popularity has surged …

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Lady Bird Johnson Grove of Redwood National Park.

The Lady Bird Johnson Grove, named after a notable former First Lady of the United States, ranks among my top hiking experiences at Redwood National Park. Nestled within a magical grove of old-growth redwood forest, it offers a beautiful hike ideal for families and a highlight of any itinerary in Redwood National Park. About 3 …

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Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park.

As one of the original, and oldest, buildings in historic Tombstone, Arizona, the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park is a must-visit on any Tombstone travel plan. This 142-year-old structure stands prominently on a street corner, just a stone’s throw from the infamous O.K. Corral (The O.K. Corral: Site of the Wild West’s Most Infamous Gunfight.). …

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Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

The youngest volcano in the San Francisco volcanic field, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument offers an intriguing day trip for visitors passing through via I-40 or who live in nearby Arizona cities. Situated just 2 hours from Prescott, 2.5 hours from Phoenix, and a mere 30 minutes outside Flagstaff, it's easily accessible for many in …

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Trillium Falls – A Fairytale Realm Awaits.

Exceptionally beautiful, the hike to Trillium Falls via the Trillium Falls Trail should top any list for Redwood National Park. Hands down, this was my favorite hike from our entire Redwoods trip and one of the few hikes I'd be happy to do again. Highly recommended on countless blogs and even the official NPS website, …

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City of Rocks State Park: An Otherworldly Landscape.

As implied, City of Rocks State Park earns its name from a striking landscape that mirrors a city sculpted from massive boulders. Despite its somewhat remote location in southern New Mexico, wandering through this natural wonder evokes the sensation of strolling through downtown Manhattan - albeit surrounded by 40-foot stones instead of skyscrapers. Numerous pathways …

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