Checking out the best National Parks close to Phoenix
Alec Sills-TrauschA lot of the world sees dust and dirt. I see magical deserts filled with stunning vistas, ancient cacti, million-year-old petrified wood, and so many other gems it boggles the mind. This is the desert southwest, and the National Parks near Phoenix are remarkable. Throughout this article, we’ll dive into the southwest national parks, what to see, and where to stay.
Buckle up. You’ve got a great trip ahead of you!
A guide for visiting the National Parks Near Phoenix
As you go through this article, the Southwest National Parks are tiered. Death Valley, Zion, and the Grand Canyon are far superior – at least to me. There are plenty of activities for a long weekend, and you won’t get bored of the views. So, as you plan your national parks near Phoenix road trip, remember that!
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Exploring The Southwest National Parks
White Sands National Park
White Sands is truly one of the extraordinary national parks in the Southwest – where else can you find miles of dazzling white sand dunes surrounded by mountains? The gypsum sand at White Sands makes this park so special – it’s incredibly soft and refined, and the dunes constantly shift and change.
One of the unique activities at White Sands is sandboarding. You can rent a board at the park entrance and spend hours zooming down the dunes. It’s a ton of fun, and the views from the top of the dunes are unbeatable.
Related: Visiting Havasupai – just 4 hours from Phoenix
If you’re not up for sandboarding, there are plenty of other ways to explore the park. The Interdune Boardwalk is an easy half-mile walk that takes you through the heart of the dunes, offering up-close views of the unique plants and animals that call White Sands home. This one is tied for the longest drive of the national parks near Phoenix.
Related: Top day hikes in Arizona
Important Information for the National Parks in the Southwest
Drive time from Phoenix: 6.5 hours
What to see/Hikes to do:
- Alkali Flat Trail: 4.5 miles
- Dune Life Nature Trail: 1 mile
- White Sands Backcountry Trail: 1.8 miles
- Interdune Boardwalk: 0.5 miles
- Playa Trail: 0.5 miles
Where to Stay: There are three close-by towns to stay in, with the largest city being Las Cruces and then Alamogordo. There are also established and dispersed camping options in the region also. Overall, though, this might be the most desolate place to stay in the Southwest national parks.
Best time to visit: I’d aim to visit from October through April when temperatures are more moderate. With summer temperates exceeding 95 degrees, it’s best to stay away during the warm months.
Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is truly one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Most people rank it as one of the best national parks in the Southwest. Located just a few hours north of Phoenix, it’s an easy day trip or an incredible weekend getaway. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for the hundredth, the views from the rim never cease to take your breath away.
There are many ways to explore the Grand Canyon, from easy walks along the rim to multi-day backpacking trips into the canyon. The Rim Trail is an excellent option if you’re looking for a more leisurely experience. It’s a flat, paved trail that runs along the canyon’s edge for 13 miles, offering stunning views at every turn.
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Bright Angel Trail is a popular option. This 9.5-mile trail descends into the canyon, offering incredible views of the Colorado River and geological formations. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks – this hike is not for the faint of heart.
Important Information for the best national parks in the Southwest
Drive time from Phoenix: 3.75 hours
What to see/Hikes to do:
- Hike down Bright Angel Trail to any of the water houses or Indian Gardens (9 miles round trip for the latter)
- Trek the South Kaibab Trail to any of the various overlooks (3-7 miles round trip)
- Watch the sunset from Yavapi Point
- Walk along the Rim Trail (6 miles)
Where to Stay:
The top two places to stay near the Grand Canyon are Grand Canyon Village and Tusayan. These offer easy access to the park (Grand Caynon Village more than anything) and provide plenty of hospitality options. Additionally, there is camping inside the park and dispersed camping before the park entrance for your national parks in the southwest visit.
Best time to visit: One of the beauties of the Grand Canyon is how you can visit year-round. It’s most popular during the summer as Phoenicians are escaping the heat, but coming in the spring and fall is just as lovely.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is the home to the iconic Joshua Tree, a twisted and spiky tree that seems to defy the laws of nature. The park is located in southern California and is approximately a half-day drive from Phoenix.
Joshua Tree is like no other, with its otherworldly landscape of rock formations and twisted Joshua trees. It’s a popular destination for rock climbers, hikers, and stargazers alike.
One of the most popular hikes in Joshua Tree is the Hidden Valley Trail. This one-mile loop takes you through a stunning valley filled with boulders and Joshua trees and offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains. The 3-mile Ryan Mountain Trail is another excellent option if you’re up for a longer hike. It takes you to the top of Ryan Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the park and beyond.
Another must-do in Joshua Tree is stargazing. The park is known for its dark skies, and on a clear night, you can see countless stars and even the Milky Way. Be sure to bring a blanket and a warm jacket – the desert can get chilly at night. Of the national parks near Phoenix, this one is the best for night photography and watching stars.
Important Information for the best national parks in the Southwest
Drive time from Phoenix: 3.5 hours
What to see/Hikes to do:
- Ryan Mountain
- Barker Dam
- Arch Rock Trail
- Hidden Valley
- Skull Rock
- Fortynine Palms Oasis
- Cholla Cactus Garden
- Split Rock Loop
Where to Stay: Depending on how far you want to drive, there are various places to stay. Yucca Valley, Twenty-Nine Palms, and Joshua Tree are the closest to the park. Those will be more expensive but save you driving. You can also venture closer or into Palm Springs, but here your drive time could be close to an hour.
Book your hotel stay near Joshua Tree.
Best time to visit: Sitting squarely in the desert, it is one of the national parks near Phoenix, which is a no-go during the summer. With temperatures over 100 most days, you won’t have much fun. So instead, aim to visit in the winter and spring for great weather and wildflowers.
Zion National Park
Zion is one of the most popular national parks in the country, and for a good reason. The towering red cliffs and deep canyons make for a truly breathtaking landscape. The formations here draw millions, and it’s easily one of the best national parks in the Southwest. One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Narrows, which takes you through a narrow canyon with towering walls on either side. You’ll be walking in the Virgin River here, so bring water shoes, hiking poles, and plenty of water.
If you’re looking for a less strenuous hike, the Emerald Pools Trail is a great option. This 3-mile roundtrip hike takes you to beautiful pools and waterfalls and offers incredible views of the surrounding cliffs.
Important Information National Parks Near Phoenix
Drive time from Phoenix: 6 hours
What to see/Hikes to do:
- Angels Landing (permit only during peak season)
- The Narrows
- Observation Point (normal route currently closed, East Mesa Trail open when weather permitting – not in winter)
- Emerald Pools
- Zion Canyon Overlook
Related: Best waterfalls in Arizona
Where to Stay:
You’ll want to stay in Springdale, a stone’s throw from the entrance to Zion National Park. There’s also camping inside the park via reservation and dispersed camping outside of the park.
Best time to visit: Zion, like the Grand Canyon, is visitable year-round, though it can be wintery after a storm. Usually, this isn’t most people’s cup of tea. I’d recommend spring and fall as the prime times to visit one of the best national parks in the Southwest and get the most out of the experience.
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley is one of the most unique parks in the country, with its stark desert landscape and extreme temperatures. It’s not for the faint of heart, but for those who are up for the challenge, it offers an unforgettable experience. It’s hands down one of the best national parks in the Southwest.
One of the most popular activities in Death Valley is exploring the dunes. The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are the most accessible and offer incredible views of the surrounding mountains. However, if you’re up for a longer hike, the Eureka Dunes in the northern part of the park are worth the journey – they’re some of the tallest dunes in North America.
Another must-see in Death Valley is Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. The salt flats here are otherworldly and offer incredible photo opportunities.
Important Information for the southwest national parks
Drive time from Phoenix: 7 hours
What to see/Hikes to do:
- Mesquite Sand Dunes
- Eureka Sand Dunes
- Golden Canyon
- Artist’s Pallete
- Badwater Basin
- Telescope Peak
- Ubehebe Crater
Where to Stay:
Furnace Creek has the most options in terms of lodging and camping within the park boundaries. There are three campsites and two hotels within a mile of each other. Furthermore, you will find more lodging to the south by southeast of the park, outside its borders.
Book a hotel here in Death Valley here.
Best time to visit: Like many of these, the summer is a no-go. Death Valley is not only the hottest place in the country but also in the world. Plan your trip in winter, and you’ll have a blast.
Mesa Verde National Park
Located in southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is a unique park that offers visitors the chance to explore ancient cliff dwellings once home to the Ancestral Pueblo people. The park is approximately a 6-hour drive from Phoenix, making it a great weekend getaway destination.
Mesa Verde is home to over 5,000 archeological sites, including the iconic Cliff Palace, a massive cliff dwelling believed to have housed over 100 people. This UNESCO heritage site offers a variety of guided tours that provide insight into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people.
In addition to its archeological wonders, Mesa Verde offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Be sure to drive along the Mesa Top Loop Road, a scenic drive that offers panoramic views of the park’s rugged terrain. The park also provides a variety of hiking trails, from easy nature walks to challenging hikes through steep canyons and towering rock formations.
If you’re interested in the history and culture of the American Southwest, Mesa Verde National Park is a must-visit destination. The park’s ancient cliff dwellings and archeological sites offer a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Additionally, its stunning landscapes also provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor adventure. So, whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, Mesa Verde National Park is a destination that should not be missed.
Important Information for the National Parks Near Phoenix
Drive time from Phoenix: 6.5 hours
What to see/Hikes to do:
- Petroglyph Point Trail
- Cliff Palace Loop Trail
- Step House Trail
- Mesa Verde Point Lookout
- Long House Trail
- Balcony House Loop
- Far View Sites Complex
Where to Stay:
Cortez and Mancos, Colorado, are the closest major towns to Mesa Verde and your best bet. You can also go with Durango, but the drive time will be over an hour and ten minutes which might not be worth it.
Best time to visit: Winter can be tricky due to an elevation ranging from 7,000 feet to 8,000 feet. However, the rest of the year is gorgeous here, with cooler summer temperatures allowing you to adventure easily.
Saguaro National Park
Exploring Saguaro National Park is a must-do when visiting the Phoenix area. The park has two sections – the east and the west – each offering a unique experience.
One of the best ways to explore Saguaro is by taking a scenic drive through the park. The 8-mile Bajada Loop Drive in the west section takes you through a stunning landscape of saguaros and other desert plants. On the other hand, the 6-mile Cactus Forest Loop Drive in the east area offers incredible views of the Rincon Mountains.
If you’re up for a hike, the Valley View Overlook Trail in the west section is a great option. This easy 1.5-mile roundtrip hike takes you to a beautiful viewpoint that offers stunning views of the saguaro-filled valley below.
Important Information for the Southwest national parks
Drive time from Phoenix: 90 minutes to 2 hours – location dependent
What to see/Hikes to do:
- Bridal Wreath Falls Trail
- King Canyon Trail to Wasson Peak
- Gould Mine
- Douglas Spring to Three Tank Junction
- Signal Hill
Where to Stay:
Tucson it is! With a metro population of a million, there are tons and tons of hotels of various stars, VRBO’s, and lodging options. I’d recommend choosing a side closer to the part you want to visit. Additionally, there are KOA’s and camping/RV options throughout the city.
Best time to visit: Stay away during the summer, as Tucson’s summer highs are around 100. But from October through May, this is amazing, with great wildflowers, bloom saguaros, and a ton of hiking.
Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest is a truly special park home to some of the most impressive petrified wood in the world. The logs here are millions of years old and have turned to stone over time, creating a landscape that looks almost otherworldly.
One of the best ways to experience Petrified Forest is by taking a scenic drive through the park. The main road takes you through various landscapes, from the colorful badlands to the towering mesas. Moreover, you’ll see plenty of petrified wood and other geological wonders along the way. *Do not remove them from the park.*
The Blue Mesa Trail is a great option if you’re up for a hike. This one-mile loop takes you through a stunning landscape of blue and purple badlands and offers incredible views of the surrounding mesas. But I will be honest; this is probably last on my rankings of national parks near Phoenix. While historically cool, it doesn’t pack a punch like others and shouldn’t take up more than one day.
Important Information for the national parks in the Southwest
Drive time from Phoenix: 3.5 hours
What to see/Hikes to do:
Many hikes in Petrified Forest are short and less than a mile. Therefore, factor this in when planning your national parks near Phoenix trip.
- Blue Mesa Trail
- Crystal Forest Trail
- Painted Desert Rim Trail
- Giant Logs Trail
- Long Logs and Agate House Loop
Where to Stay:
Of the national parks near Phoenix, this one is the most remote in terms of having a sizeable town close by. Holbrook, a city of about 5,500, is your best bet for lodging and accommodation. Further, there’s also a KOA for those looking to camp/for a more rustic stay. It’s about 30 minutes away.
Book your hotel in Holbrook here.
Best time to visit: This is one of the Southwest National Parks you can visit year-round thanks to its higher elevation. Still, summer months will be warm – though it’ll be primarily uncrowded. So I’d still stick to Fall through Spring.
How to be safe while visiting the National Parks in the Southwest
Adventure early and late
No environment in America prepares you for the Sonoran Desert. It’s hot, dry, and dusty. So, with a powerful sun during the summer months, it’s advisable to stay inside during the hottest hours of the day when temperatures can reach upwards of 120 degrees or more.
So, if you plan to visit the best national parks in the Southwest in the warmer months, do your activities in the early morning and evening when the sun is lower in the sky, and the heat will have less effect on you.
Water, Water, Water.
Next, it’s paramount to always have water on you while hiking and traveling in the desert southwest. These national parks near Phoenix are notorious for being in the middle of nowhere, and if you break down, having water on hand can help in a multitude of ways.
Regarding consumption, having three-quarters to a gallon of water daily if you’re hiking is a good goal.
Here are a couple of items to consider purchasing:
- 7-gallon water jug for your car – $20
- 3-liter water bladder for hiking – $37
Gear to wear for the southwest national parks
I wrote an entire article on hot weather clothes. However, I’ll also list some gear below for those visiting the national parks near Phoenix.
- Sun Shirt: REI Sahara or this one, or this
- Pants: Prana
- Shorts: Prana
- Socks: Darn Tough
- Trail Runners: Altra or Salomon
- Hiking backpack: Gregory daypack
- Hat: Outdoor Research sun hat
Until next time adventurers, take care and be safe.
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