Discover the 10 best places to visit in Arizona in March, from stunning national parks to scenic desert landscapes. Plan your perfect spring getaway in Arizona.
Best Places in Arizona in March
March is one of the best times to visit Arizona, offering pleasant temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for hiking trails, scenic drives, or vibrant cultural experiences, Arizona has something to offer. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Arizona in March.
1. Grand Canyon National Park
- Mild spring temperatures make hiking and sightseeing enjoyable.
- Ideal for catching sunrise and sunset over the canyon’s rim.
Grand Canyon National Park is a must-visit in March when the weather is cool and crowds are smaller than in summer. The South Rim is fully open, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities for photography. Whether you take a scenic drive along Desert View Drive or hike the Bright Angel Trail, the Grand Canyon’s immense beauty is at its best in spring.
2. Sedona
- Home to stunning red rock formations and scenic hiking trails.
- Perfect for outdoor activities like Jeep tours and hot air balloon rides.
Sedona in March is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, it’s an excellent time for hiking Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock. The city also offers spiritual retreats, art galleries, and unique rock formations that make for an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the scenic Red Rock Scenic Byway for breathtaking views.
3. Antelope Canyon
- Famous for its mesmerizing light beams and sandstone formations.
- Best time of year for photography, as lighting conditions are ideal.
March is a great time to visit Antelope Canyon, as the sunlight creates beautiful patterns inside the narrow slot canyon. Located near Page, Arizona, this natural wonder is best explored on a guided tour. Whether you visit Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, the stunning rock formations will leave you in awe.
4. Saguaro National Park
- Known for its towering saguaro cacti and desert landscapes.
- Ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives.
Located near Tucson, Saguaro National Park showcases the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. In March, the weather is perfect for hiking trails like Valley View Overlook or Signal Hill. This park is home to thousands of towering saguaro cacti, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
5. Monument Valley
- Offers breathtaking views of towering sandstone buttes.
- Great for scenic drives, photography, and guided Navajo tours.
Monument Valley, located on the Arizona-Utah border, is one of the most iconic landscapes in the U.S. In March, the weather is cool, making it the perfect time for exploring the valley’s red rock formations. Take a guided tour with a Navajo guide to learn about the area’s cultural significance while enjoying the stunning scenery.
6. Phoenix & Desert Botanical Garden
- A perfect blend of city life and stunning natural landscapes.
- March offers ideal weather for outdoor exploration.
Phoenix, Arizona’s capital, is a fantastic March destination with pleasant temperatures and blooming desert landscapes. The Desert Botanical Garden showcases a variety of cacti and wildflowers, making it a must-visit. Downtown Phoenix also offers great museums, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a perfect mix of nature and city life.
7. Horseshoe Bend
- Famous for its dramatic Colorado River overlook.
- A short, scenic hike offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Horseshoe Bend, near Page, Arizona, is one of the most photographed spots in the state. In March, the cooler weather makes the short hike to the overlook more comfortable. The sweeping view of the Colorado River curving through the canyon is a must-see, especially at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting.
8. Petrified Forest National Park
- Home to ancient petrified wood and colorful badlands.
- Offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and archaeological sites.
Petrified Forest National Park is a unique destination featuring fossilized trees that are millions of years old. March provides great weather for exploring the park’s trails, including the Blue Mesa Trail and Crystal Forest Trail. The park’s Painted Desert landscape is a stunning sight, especially during sunrise and sunset.
9. Lake Powell & Glen Canyon
- Perfect for boating, kayaking, and exploring scenic landscapes.
- March offers comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
Lake Powell is a stunning reservoir located along the Arizona-Utah border, offering water-based recreation and breathtaking desert views. In March, visitors can enjoy kayaking, boat tours, and hiking in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. With its clear blue waters and dramatic red rock formations, Lake Powell is an excellent spring getaway.
10. Tucson & Mount Lemmon
- A great mix of desert scenery and mountain landscapes.
- March offers excellent conditions for hiking and scenic drives.
Tucson, known for its vibrant culture and outdoor adventures, is a fantastic destination in March. Visitors can explore the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac or hike in Sabino Canyon. For a change in scenery, take a drive up to Mount Lemmon, where cooler temperatures and pine forests provide a refreshing escape from the desert heat.
Conclusion
March is the perfect time to explore Arizona’s diverse landscapes, from the towering red rocks of Sedona to the deep canyons of the Grand Canyon. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or breathtaking scenery, these destinations offer something special. Plan your Arizona trip this March and experience the state’s natural wonders at their finest.
Read to Next: 10 Best National Parks in Arizona