6 Destinations To Visit In the Mid-West

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The Mid-West is an eclectic mix of landscapes, climates, and cultures that offer visitors a diverse range of adventures. This region has something for everyone, from the high desert to the lush green valleys. The following are six Midwestern destinations to consider when planning your next trip.

Hikes in Arizona: The Desert State's Rich Natural Treasures

Hiking trails throughout the state offer a wonderful opportunity to appreciate and admire Arizona's scenic beauty. Saguaro National Park East in Tucson is one of the best places to see the splendor of the desert landscape.

The Park's main hiking trails are the Romero Pools Trail and the King Canyon Trail. Both trails connect, but each leads to beautiful locations at different elevations throughout the Park. These parks are ideal for people who want to spend time outside exploring and enjoying nature.

Other enjoyable activities include hiking up Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, taking a morning hike through Sunset Trail near Sedona, or viewing petroglyphs on one of the many Arizona hikes in the Prescott area. The following are four additional destinations to consider if you are planning a hiking trip to Arizona.

1. Havasupai Falls - Located on Navajo land, this remote area boasts one of the Grand Canyon's most stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, as well as red-rock canyons and desert plant life that will leave you speechless.

2. Picketpost Mountain Preserve - Situated near Phoenix, this preserve offers miles of hiking trails through dense forests with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities.

3. Chiricahua National Monument - Located in southern Arizona, this landscape is characterized by high-elevation forests and expansive views of the surrounding plains.

4. Sabino Canyon Recreation Area - This recreation area offers a variety of trails throughout its beautiful forest with spectacular mountain views.

More out of Arizona

From the Grand Canyon to Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona has a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy on your next visit. The state's saguaros are a one-of-a-kind attraction that allows visitors to learn more about desert plant life. Or they can enjoy picturesque views from impressive heights.

Another popular southwest destination is the Pueblo Grande Museum. It is an archaeological Park near Phoenix, where visitors can see the remains of ancestral homes dating back nearly 2,000 years.

The Park also serves as an interesting museum, assisting visitors in their understanding of native culture. Saguaro National Park, the Lowell Observatory, and Canyon de Chelly are popular tourist destinations with fascinating sites. Consider doing the following three things while staying in this area.

1. Hike The Rim Trail - This 21-mile trail offers a lifetime of memories, but it can be challenging for some.

2. Check Out Desert View Watchtower - At an elevation of 7,522 feet above sea level, this stunning landmark will offer visitors amazing views across the canyon.

3. Mule Trip into The Canyon - If hiking isn't your thing, you can see the canyon from down below on this 3–4-hour mule trip.

Utah: Traveling Through the Red Hills of Horseshoe Canyon

The arid desert may be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Utah, but you should consider many other places throughout the state for a vacation. The unique and picturesque landscape near Boulder, Utah, is one such location.

Visitors can hike through narrow trails along sandstone walls in this area, which features red rock cliffs and canyons. If you enjoy hiking, this location is a must-see because it offers some of the best outdoor experiences in the Intermountain West.

Visitors interested in natural surroundings will find Bear Lake has much to offer in addition to an excellent adventure. Bear Lake, located on the Utah-Idaho border, is the region's largest freshwater lake, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration. For those who enjoy adventure, here is a list of three places in Utah that will appeal to both skiers and non-skiers.

1. Alta Ski Area - Situated near Salt Lake City, this area has the steepest slopes for advanced skiers looking for a challenge.

2. Snow Canyon State Park - Located near St. George, this Park offers spectacular red rock formations along with pristine white dunes.

3. Antelope Island State Park - A unique oasis within the desert, it has beautiful beaches and stunning mountain views.

Nevada: A West Coast Destination with A Unique History

Nevada has long been known as the world's entertainment capital. But there are many other fascinating sites to tour when visiting this area on your next vacation. Great Basin National Park, near Baker, Nevada, is one such location.

This west coast destination features some amazing geology, with Lehman Caves and 13,063-foot Wheeler Peak standing proudly at its center. The Park also has some fascinating history, such as an old stagecoach route built by Chinese laborers in 1870 that ran from Delta to Eureka over 600 miles of rugged terrain.

Consider visiting Valley of Fire State Park, 50,000 acres of red sandstone landscapes set against a picturesque skyline. Although there are no designated trails in the Park, visitors can hike along unmarked paths as long as they bring plenty of water and sunscreen for this desert environment. Below are three things you should do during your stay in this state.

1. Visit Lake Mead National Recreation Area - There's no better way to discover the wonders of the desert than taking an excursion through Lake Mead NRA.

2. Check Out Laughlin, Nevada - When you're finished exploring Hoover Dam, take an afternoon or the following day to visit Laughlin. This small town sits on the banks of the Colorado River and offers visitors entertainment at every corner.

3. Explore The Historic Railroad Tunnel - You can experience history by traveling through this tunnel along the historic railroad path.

Idaho: The Gem State Offers a Great Outdoor Adventure

Visitors looking for an outdoor adventure should head to Idaho. It has numerous opportunities for camping, hiking, and fishing. Most parks have excellent hiking trails, giving nature lovers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the region's flora and fauna.

Craters of the Moon National Monument in Arco, Twin Falls County Park near Shoshone Falls, and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area are just a few unique and interesting locations that offer exciting adventures. This last Park is a popular fishing destination. Visitors can try their luck at catching rainbow trout, brook trout, or even salmon in many lakes located throughout the area.

Colorado: A Rocky Mountain Destination with Plenty of Outdoor Activities

Colorado provides fun outdoor adventures for nature lovers. It includes hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking. One of the top places to visit is Rocky Mountain, National Park. The Park features hundreds of miles of trails winding through forests and meadows. It provides ideal locations for exploring wildlife or simply enjoying scenic vistas from high altitudes.

Aspen offers another popular destination, with four mountain peaks standing as sentinels over this famous town. The town is also known for its skiing activities during the winter months. San Juan National Forest is another exciting destination that features several alpine lakes, abundant wildlife, and fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities.

The intermountain states have a lot to offer, whether you're looking for a quick getaway or an adventure-filled vacation. These destinations have something for everyone, from white water rafting to hiking and biking trails. Plenty of places will leave visitors speechless if they prefer relaxing holidays with stunning views from high above.