Hey everyone!  This week we will be wandering over west to the enthralling state of Arizona.  This state has plenty to offer its visitors from breath-taking natural landmarks to man-made wonders, Arizona truly has something for each and every person that enters the state. 

We will begin our journey in Arizona by going to one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world: Grand Canyon National Park.  This canyon attracts thousands upon thousands of visitors each year with its steep sides leading down to the Colorado River.  In addition, the canyon dazzles tourists with its many-colored layers from geological erosion with each layer representing a different age in the life of the stone.  The park itself has been inhabited for thousands of years by native American groups and groups such as the Pueblo people who consider the canyon to be a religious site.   

Image courtesy National Park Service

While hanging around the Grand Canyon, tourists are also able to head on over to the Grand Canyon Railway.  This railway, which was built in 1901, features wooden tracks with trains that go slow enough so riders can soak in the breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape.  Rides last about 2 hours and 15 minutes and with each train having a personal steward for information and onboard entertainment throughout the trip.  As a bonus each train is also designed to have an “Old West” feel to them. 

Image courtesy National Geographic Visitor Center

If the Grand Canyon was not enough for you to want to travel to Arizona, then the Desert Botanical Garden might just be the push you need.  Located in Phoenix, this garden features over 21,000 plants, some of which are unique to the southwestern desert ecosystem.  The garden also doubles as a conservatory and is known as the Phoenix Point of Pride.  Visitors are able to view the meticulously cared for plants from five different walking trails throughout the garden.  This garden is especially intriguing to me because it is quite fascinating how they are able to create such a beautiful site in the harsh desert conditions.   

Image courtesy Scottsdale, Arizona

Following our visit to the Desert Botanical Garden, we will next venture back over towards the Grand Canyon so as to join in on the fun with the Colorado River Discovery.  This river rafting company provides tours along the Colorado River with tours lasting either a full or half day depending on how adventurous you are feeling.  People can either paddle themselves or use the Helios eco-friendly electric boat to traverse the beautiful landscape with the option of an experienced guide narrating as you move along the river.  On such tours, visitors are able to take in spectacular views of the clear water, sandstone cliffs, and local wildlife all while enjoying the thrill of rafting.  

Image courtesy TripAdvisor

In summary, Arizona has lots of wonderful opportunities for visitors to partake in and reap the benefits of the state’s fascinating landscape.  I, personally, look forward to traveling to Arizona someday especially since seeing the Grand Canyon is one of the top sites on my bucket list.  

Stick around for my next post as I uncover all the wonderful attractions Colorado has to offer!