13 Best Fall Activities to Do in Arizona It’s no secret that summers can be downright brutal in Arizona, so when fall rolls around, it’s time to head outside to enjoy the season and start feeling a little more comfortable. Whether you’re trying to stay safe with social distancing, get some exercise, or just explore the diverse nature hat the state has to offer, these are some of the best things to do outdoors this fall in Arizona.
Pumpkin Patches
There are many pumpkin patches in Arizona that make wonderful outdoor activities for the fall. Pumpkin patches have more than just pumpkins here too and often include corn mazes, petting zoos, food, drinks, hayrides, and games. For example, there’s MacDonald’s Ranch in Scottsdale, Mortimer Farms in Dewey, and the Enchanted Pumpkin Garden in Carefree. Other popular pumpkin patches are Marana Pumpkin Patch in Tucson, Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek, and Vertuccio Farms in Mesa.
Antelope Canyon | Northern AZ
Antelope Canyon is a local spot on manh Arizona outdoor photographer’s bucket lists and a great place to check out in the fall. It is operated by Navajo Nation Parks, so check the park’s website to confirm opening times within the health order requirements. Generally, there are multiple tour options available of Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, helicopter tours, and other canyons worth checking out too. Tour guides are mandatory in all areas of Antelope Canyon.
Camelback Mountain | Phoenix, AZ
Camelback Mountain is known as the must-hike mountain in Phoenix, but it can get blisteringly hot here in the summer. For your fall outdoor adventure, you can hike up this mountain, which has an elevation of 2,704 feet and offers beautiful scenic views. It’s 20 minutes from downtown Phoenix and has two difficult trails that ascend to the top. Echo Canyon Trail is 1.2 miles out and back, and Cholla Trail is 1.5 miles out and back. There are many native wildlife species along the trail as well native plants.
Colorado River Rafting
For an unforgettable outdoor adventure in the fall in Arizona, consider a rafting trip on the Colorado River. You can experience the river at the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and other places and really get an appreciation for the peaceful grandeur of the landscapes. Local river guide companies will take you out onto the water and equip you with everything you need to be safe and have fun.
Sand Dunes| Southwest AZ
Off-roading enthusiasts love coming to Imperial Sand Dunes near Yuma and along Interstate 8. There are over 40 miles of dunes here and dunes that reach 300 feet in height. OHV riders come here for the scenery, adventure, and wide-open spaces along the Arizona-California border. Besides the main dunes, you can check out the North Algodones Dunes Wilderness for a tranquil alternative. Walking and horse-riding are other activities to do in this Bureau of Land Management (BLM) region. You can buy seasonal and weekly sand dune permits online.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Who says you have to keep your feet on the ground to have outdoor adventures in Arizona? You can get a bird’s eye view of these epic landscapes and gain a whole new perspective by going for a hot air balloon ride high above the desert. You can take a sunrise balloon ride with prickly pear mimosas, romantic sunset rides, full moon rides, and enjoy package deals that include a champagne toast and hors d’oeuvres.