Arizona's 9 Premier Fall Activities

Enjoy the major tourist attractions

Plan a trip around the state visiting the major tourist attractions such as the Horse Bend, Cathedral Rock, Antelope Canyon, Bell Rock, Oak Creek Canyon, Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway, Devil's Bridge trail, and so on that look stunning during the fall.

Arizona is fantastic for hikers

Arizona has been a utopia for hikers for decades now. The autumn has been one of the best seasons to explore this dry and desert landscape. Enjoy the clean, crisp mountain air, discover new trails and creeks, go hiking on the steep passages on the canyons craggy walls.

Go out for a picnic

The autumn and spring were made for picnicking. You can be out in the sun sitting under shady trees with crimson leaves, watching nature in its full glory. Yes, some parts of Arizona have trees! The Call of the Canyon is among the best picnic spots in the state where tourists can go hiking through the forests.

Visit the beautiful forests

The picturesque landscape, pretty trails, and natural coniferous forests are full of maple, box elder, oak trees. Visit the Coconino National Forest in the north central part of the state and lose yourself in the autumn colors and smell of pinecones. Watch how the leaves change color turning different shades of yellow.

Go for long walks and drives around the country

If you're looking for some alone time, try the Thomas Point Trail about a few hundred miles south of the Call of the Canyon. The cool clear streams complement the landscape reflecting the many colors of the autumn leaves.

A treat for bird watchers

Autumn is also a treat for bird watchers who can hike up the hills and cliffs of the Grand Canyon from where eagles can be easily spotted. Carry a pair of binoculars to observe the soaring hawks and ravens.

Enjoy the fairs and festivals

Cities such as Phoenix, Tucson, Scottsdale, Mesa and so forth are known for their cultural fests, animal fairs, and rich heritage. Check out the rich history and tradition of Arizona, munch on the local cuisine and be a part of the local festivities. The annual Navajo Nation Fair, Apache County Fair and Yavapai County Fair are already hogging limelight. If you can, check out one of these!

Sightseeing: plan a trip around the city

Pima Air & Space Museum, the Desert Botanical Garden, Musical Instrument Museum, and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is among the countless tourist attractions that travelers can visit.

Take a hot air balloon ride

Watch the beauty of Central Arizona unfold below you from above in a hot air balloon which can be done in several locations around the Phoenix metro area, including cities on the outskirts of Phoenix. Tourists who want an extra adrenalin rush can also indulge in extreme sports activities such as bungee jumping, para gliding, and hiking activities.

Key Insights at a Glance

• Autumn in Arizona is a treat for the senses with glorious hues of red, yellow, and orange foliage set in the mountainous landscape.
• Top activities in Arizona during fall include visiting major tourist attractions, hiking, picnicking, visiting forests, bird watching, enjoying fairs and festivals, sightseeing, and taking a hot air balloon ride.
• Arizona is a utopia for hikers with clean mountain air, new trails, and steep canyon passages to explore.
• Picnicking in the sun under shady trees with crimson leaves is a popular activity in the fall.
• Visiting the Coconino National Forest and other forests in Arizona allows tourists to enjoy the autumn colors and coniferous landscapes.
• For a peaceful experience, try the Thomas Point Trail and enjoy the cool streams and autumn leaves.
• Bird watchers can spot eagles and other birds at the Grand Canyon, while cities like Phoenix and Tucson offer cultural fests and local cuisine.
• Popular tourist attractions in Arizona include the Pima Air & Space Museum, Desert Botanical Garden, Musical Instrument Museum, and McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
• Hot air balloon rides and extreme sports activities like bungee jumping and para gliding are also available for tourists seeking an adrenaline rush.