South Rim: No trip to Arizona is complete without visiting the Grand Canyon. While technically a little off Route 66, it's just a short detour and worth it. Walk along the South Rim Trail for breathtaking panoramic views, or take the Bright Angel Trail into the canyon for a more immersive experience.
Grand Canyon National Park: Hike, take a mule ride, or simply explore the stunning landscapes, from red rock formations to the Colorado River.
Sunset & Sunrise Views: Try to catch the sunrise or sunset at one of the Grand Canyon’s many overlooks, where the canyon’s colors transform with the light.

Petrified Wood: Take a scenic drive through the park and stop at overlooks to admire the ancient, colorful petrified wood. The Agate Bridge and Petrified Forest are must-see spots.
Blue Mesa: Hike the Blue Mesa Trail for spectacular views of the vibrant, otherworldly landscape. The rich colors of the hills and vast desert sky are perfect for photography and nature walks.

Meteor Crater: Located just off Route 66 near Winslow, this massive crater formed over 50,000 years ago is a striking example of nature’s power. Take the scenic overlook for spectacular views of the crater or visit the visitor center for a deeper look at its geological significance.
Hiking & Viewing: While the crater itself is protected, you can take short hikes around the area to explore the surrounding desert terrain.

Sunset Crater: Just north of Flagstaff, this volcanic park offers a chance to explore the remains of a volcanic eruption that occurred about 1,000 years ago. The Lava Flow Trail is a short, easy hike that allows you to walk on cooled lava.
Cinder Hills Overlook: A great spot to take in views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, as well as the expansive desert.

Wupatki Pueblo: While the ruins are historically important, the natural setting is also stunning. Hike around the ancient site and enjoy sweeping views of the desert. The Wupatki Loop is a great drive for exploring both natural and archaeological features.
Desert Flora and Fauna: As you walk through the monument, keep an eye out for native plants like desert marigold and prickly pear cactus, as well as local wildlife like lizards, birds, and perhaps even a coyote.

Island Trail: This moderate hike takes you through the ancient cliff dwellings carved into the canyon walls. It’s an immersive way to experience both the natural beauty and historical significance of the canyon.
Scenic Views: From the top of the canyon, enjoy views of the lush canyon floor and distant plateaus. This is an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially around dawn and dusk.

Cathedral Rock: A must-do hike for nature lovers, offering stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations. The climb is a bit challenging, but the scenery is more than worth it.
Bell Rock: Known for its vortex energy, this is an easy-to-moderate hike with panoramic views of the red rock landscape. It’s also a great place for photography.
Oak Creek Canyon: If you have time, drive through this lush canyon. It’s a beautiful area full of pine forests, creek views, and lots of opportunities for nature photography.

Ponderosa Pine Forest: Flagstaff is surrounded by beautiful forests full of towering Ponderosa pines. Spend time hiking or walking in Coconino National Forest, especially the Kachina Trail, which offers easy access to the forest.
Humphreys Peak: If you're up for a challenging hike, Humphreys Peak is the highest point in Arizona. From the top, you’ll have amazing views of the entire state and beyond.

Little Colorado River Gorge: Located near the town of Cameron, this overlook offers amazing views of the gorge where the river has carved deep canyons into the landscape. It’s a great place for quiet reflection, photography, or just taking in the vast desert vistas.

Havasu Falls: While not technically on Route 66, if you’re open to an adventurous detour, Havasu Falls is one of the most beautiful spots in Arizona. The hike down to the falls is an experience in itself, with turquoise waters and stunning red rock cliffs surrounding the area.
Camping & Hiking: For the true nature lover, spending a night near the falls in a campground allows for deeper connection with the environment. It’s a bucket-list location for outdoor enthusiasts.

Painted Desert National Park: Stretching along Route 66, this park offers amazing views of multicolored desert hills. The landscape is rich with reds, purples, and oranges, and you can visit Blue Mesa and Newspaper Rock for spectacular views and photo ops.
Hiking & Photography: The painted layers of rock provide a canvas for photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset when the colors shift.

Apache Trail Scenic Drive: If you have time, take a detour to Tonto National Forest. The Apache Trail offers stunning desert views, along with a contrast of towering mountains and water features, providing an incredible diversity of landscapes for any nature lover.

Winslow: Known for its "Standing on the Corner" park, this charming town offers a mix of quirky roadside attractions and beautiful natural surroundings.
Holbrook: Visit Blue Chasm (off Route 66), a unique and colorful canyon perfect for a brief exploration.

Timing: Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography and a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy nature.
Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for desert wildlife such as coyotes, roadrunners, lizards, and bighorn sheep, particularly at places like Petrified Forest or Wupatki.
Camping: There are many campgrounds along the route, especially in places like Coconino National Forest or Petrified Forest National Park, which offer budget-friendly and nature-filled experiences.

Wandering Souls