Outdoor adventures in Arizona are prevalent, especially in the Spring. Arizona is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and springtime offers a perfect opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and adventures the state has to offer. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for some scenic beauty, here are the top 6 outdoor adventures in Arizona to experience this spring.
1. Spring Training Baseball
Spring Training Baseball is a pre-season warm-up event for Major League Baseball teams, where they come to Arizona to practice and play in exhibition games. It is a great opportunity to see your favorite players and teams in action and enjoy a fun and relaxed day at the ballpark. Games take place from mid-February to the end of March and are held at various stadiums throughout the state, including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, and more.
2. Hiking Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a stunning slot canyon located on Navajo land near Page, Arizona. Uniquely, this canyon offers several hiking trails that lead visitors through narrow, winding passages. Visiting Antelope Canyon in the Spring is the perfect time as the weather is mild. Additionally, in the Spring, light beams enter the canyon through small openings in the top creating stunning, ethereal effects. Certainly, this is one of the top bucket-list worthy Arizona Outdoor activities!
3. Whitewater Rafting with Arizona Rafting
We can’t talk about outdoor adventures in Arizona without talking about Salt River rafting. Whitewater rafting on the Upper Salt River is a great place for adventurous souls to hit the water. With Arizona Rafting, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the thrill of rapids while taking in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. A unique desert ecosystem characterized by its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and an abundance of unique plant species. The best time for rafting and camping on the Upper Salt River is Springtime due to snowmelt from the mountains creating the best rapids of the year.
4. Verde Canyon Railroad
Verde Canyon Railroad is a scenic train ride that takes you through the heart of Arizona’s Verde Canyon. Stunning views of red rock formations and wildlife, makes this train ride a perfect way to relax and take in the beauty of the state. Verde Canyon Railroad is located in the town of Clarkdale, near Sedona, and the train operates year-round. If you are looking for Adventurous things to do in Arizona from the comfort of a first class railroad, this ones for you!
5. Hot Air Ballooning
Hot air ballooning is an amazing way to see Arizona from above. With panoramic views of the landscape, you’ll float gently over the state’s rolling hills, rugged canyons, and vibrant deserts. Springtime is a great time for hot air ballooning, as the weather is mild and the skies are clear, providing optimal visibility.
6. Stand Up Paddleboarding
Lastly, stand up paddleboarding is a fun and challenging outdoor adventure in Arizona that’s perfect for exploring Arizona’s waterways. Whether you’re paddling down a river or exploring a lake, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Specifically, Spring is a great time for stand-up paddleboarding, as the water temperatures are comfortable and the weather is mild.
Fun Facts
- The Arizona Cactus League is the largest spring training complex in the world, with 15 MLB teams participating.
- Antelope Canyon was formed by flash floods and the erosion of Navajo Sandstone over millions of years.
- The Sonoran Desert is the only place in the world where the Saguaro cactus, a symbol of the American West, grows.
- Verde Canyon Railroad is one of the oldest continuously operating tourist trains in the United States.
- Hot air balloons have been used for transportation and recreation for over 150 years.
- Stand-up paddleboarding originated in Hawaii and has been popularized as a recreational activity worldwide.
