When most people picture fall, they don’t typically think of Arizona first. They picture places like Vermont, Colorado, or the Pacific Northwest.

If you’ve ever experienced autumn in Arizona, you’re in our secret. When temperatures cool down and the leaves start to change, Arizona becomes one of the most beautiful places in the country. Summers in our state are longer, and fall is later than in most places, but if you know where to look, you’re in for a treat.

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Road surrounded by vibrant trees in the fall.
Photo by LXS Photography on Unsplash

From golden aspens in the high country to colorful canyon views, you don't have to book a flight to Vermont to enjoy a charming autumn getaway.

Are you planning a day trip or a cozy weekend escape? Take some notes, because places deliver some of Arizona's best fall colors.

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a waterfall in the middle of a canyon
Photo by Nandita Damaraju on Unsplash

Arizona’s Best Fall Getaways Are Only a Day Trip Away

While the rest of the country is booking flights to New England, Arizona quietly puts on a spectacular autumn show of its own.

The cooler temperatures quietly tiptoe into the high country where golden leaves shimmer in the breeze. You can take a short drive and visit some of our state's most beautiful landscapes, cloaked in fall glory.

READ: What the Sovereign Navajo Nation Means in Arizona

green trees near body of water during daytime
Photo by Nicole Geri on Unsplash

A Mountain Town That Becomes Arizona's Fall Capital

One of the most iconic destinations is Northern Arizona. It’s the place we flock to every autumn, because it's probably the most “un-Arizona” place in our state.

With crisp mornings, a plethora of pines, and entire hillsides dressed in beautiful shades of gold, red, and amber, this place is the most fall place in Arizona.

Pack the kids in the van for a scenic drive, stop at a cozy coffee shop, and snap photos of the unforgettable views. Visit Arizona says this spot delivers everything people love about fall.

person in black jacket standing on brown grass field during daytime
Photo by Jared Murray on Unsplash

A Canyon Drive You Have To See To Believe

One of Arizona's most beautiful places becomes even more magical when the seasons change. Head to the Grand Canyon for a spectacular change of the seasons.

As you round each curve, you find bursts of yellow and orange tucked near canyon walls. The colorful leaves and dramatic scenery create magical, unforgettable views.

A dirt road surrounded by lots of trees
Photo by Nastia Petruk on Unsplash

Don’t Wait! Plan Your Trip Now!

One of the best things about fall in Arizona is that it doesn't disappear after a few short weeks, but don’t rest on your laurels (see what I did there?). Start planning your trip now to find the best the season has to offer.

Here are the seven best places in Arizona to take that fall day trip and take in all that beautiful autumn color.

The 7 Best Places to See Fall Colors in Arizona

Who says you have to travel all the way to Vermont to experience fall colors?

Stay right here in the Southwest. The color and texture of autumn in Arizona can be found all across our state. A short road trip may be all you need to see the beauty of and majesty of changing leaves.

Gallery Credit: Val Davidson

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