October is right around the corner, even though it might be a while before temperatures start to show it. As Arizonans welcome cooler air and pumpkin spice everything, we can look forward to trips to northern Arizona in search of changing colors.
With lush forests as far as the eye can see, northern Arizona is a hotspot for viewing the transition from green to reds, yellows and oranges, which typically peaks around mid-October. State parks in the area provide a great opportunity for picnics, bikes and hikes surrounded by fall hues.
Arizona State Parks and Trails released its list of the best places to see fall colors in state parks on Wednesday. Here are the tops.
Red Rock State Park
Explore five, family-friendly miles of trails along the red rocks of Sedona. See fall foliage at a bird's-eye view at the Eagle's Nest, the highest point of elevation at 300 feet, or hike up to the House of Apache Fires for a different view.
Where: 4050 Red Rock Loop Road, Sedona, AZ 86336
When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with limited holiday hours. Entry closes at 4:30 p.m.
Cost: $7 for adults (14+), $4 for youth (7-13), children six and under are free.
Fall colors 2024: Arizona's best hikes for aspens, oaks and maples
Slide Rock State Park
Though a popular place to cool off in the summer, this park makes a great spot for an autumnal picnic surrounded by bursts of reds, oranges and yellows. The park has several short hiking trails, speckled with historical cabins.
Where: 6871 N. Highway 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
When: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily with limited holiday hours. Entry closes at 5 p.m.
Cost: $20 per vehicle (1-4 adults) Monday through Thursday; $30 per vehicle (1-4 adults) Friday through Sunday. $5 per additional adult.
Note: According to the park's website, apple picking will not be available this year.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park
Hike, bike, camp or go horseback riding along over 20 miles of trails, lined by changing colors as the green cottonwood trees turn to vibrant yellow and orange. Visit two parks in one day by biking the 15-mile Lime Kiln Trail, which connects to the Red Rock State Park in Sedona.
Where: 675 Dead Horse Ranch Road, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
When: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily with limited holiday hours. Gates close at dark.
Cost: $7 per vehicle (1-4 adults), $3 for an individual/bicycle.
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Traverse on what may be the world's largest travertine bridge while viewing a landscape dotted with bright colors. Trails are short but strenuous, so gear up for a long, cool time in the Tonto National Forest.
Your furry friend is not allowed on the trails.
Where: Payson, AZ 85547 (10 miles north of Payson on Highway 87)
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with limited holiday hours. Entry closes at 4 p.m.
Cost: $7 for adults (14+), $4 for youth (7-13), children 6 and under are free.
Note: Due to the West Fire near Pine, smoky conditions are present in the morning and typically clear up by noon.
Rockin' River Ranch State Park
The newest state park in Camp Verde is lush with cottonwood trees, creating the perfect opportunity to view the change from green to hues of orange and yellow. Six trails wind through the park and provide access to fall colors, wildlife and the Verde River habitat.
Where: 4513 S. Salt Mine Road, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday with limited holiday hours. Entry closes at 4 p.m.
Cost: $7 per vehicle (1-4 adults), $3 for an individual/bicycle.
When should I go?
Peak vibrancy in Arizona is expected in early- to mid-October with some changes happening earlier in the month and into November.
In Sedona, Cottonwood, Camp Verde and Payson the peak period is mid-October.
If you're looking to go even further north to Flagstaff, colors should peak near the end of September and into October.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Wanting to see fall leaves? These Arizona state parks have plenty of color
Local News