Arizona

Arizona stands as a symbol of the American Southwest, with its rugged landscapes, rich cultural history, and breathtaking national sites. Its deserts and canyons reveal millions of years of geological history, while its indigenous roots stretch back thousands of years. Ancient cliff dwellings and petroglyphs hint at the lives of early Native American tribes who called this harsh yet beautiful land home. Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, leaving behind missions and influencing the region’s culture. The territory became part of the United States after the Mexican-American War, and Arizona officially gained statehood in 1912, making it the 48th state.

Arizona’s national sites showcase the state’s dramatic natural beauty and historical significance. Towering rock formations, deep canyons, and ancient ruins reflect both the power of nature and the resilience of those who lived there. These sites serve as living museums, preserving the history of native cultures and early settlers alike. Today, Arizona is a haven for adventurers and history lovers, offering a unique blend of rugged wilderness and rich heritage that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

The 39

National Treasures in Arizona

Agua Fria National Monument
Apache National Forest
Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument
Hohokam Pima National Monument (No Access)
Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site
Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail
Kaibab National Forest
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Montezuma Castle National Monument
Navajo National Monument
Old Spanish National Historic Trail
Pipe Spring National Monument
Prescott National Forest
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Tonto National Forest
Tuzigoot National Monument
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
Walnut Canyon National Monument
Wupatki National Monument

Shea's Videos and Travel Journal Entries From Arizona

A man in a sunhat stands before a tall saguaro cactus, speaking with his hand raised. Three inset photos show cactus blooms and the wonders of Saguaro National Park. Text reads: “Shea’s Rapid Recap #53: Hiking and Unleashing the Wonders of Saguaro National Park.”.
Join a captivating journey through Saguaro National Park, uncovering the fascinating world of saguaro cacti, mining history, and unexpected desert discoveries! Plus a presidio!
A man in a hat and backpack is framed by a smartphone outline, standing among rocky formations at Chiricahua National Monument. Sunlight streams through the rocks. Text reads: "Break Free of Negative Influences," "Insightful Reflections," and the monument's name.
Hiking in Chiricahua National Monument prompts reflection on life’s influences. Consider who and what shapes your life, and make conscious choices about your path and your life.
A smiling man in a hat and glasses sits in front of a straw background. The text reads, "Shea's Rapid Recap #52." Inset photos feature a memorial, Apache Pass at Fort Bowie National Historic Site, and more. Logo: "The Hiking CEO Shea Oliver.
Step into the rugged history of Apache Pass, where water was more precious than gold, and Fort Bowie once stood proud as both a refuge and a battleground.
A man in a hat and glasses stands outdoors, framed by a phone on the rocky landscape of Cochise Stronghold—Dragoon Mountains, Arizona. Text: “Insightful Reflections.” Subheading atop the phone reads, “EVENTUALLY COCHISE ESCAPED AND.” History meets moral crossroads.
Ready to confront uncomfortable truths about history and morality? Are we repeating past mistakes? It's time to reflect and decide which side of history we want to stand on.
A man in a sun hat and glasses smiles outdoors amid nature. Inset photos show rocky landscapes, a park sign, and Chiricahua National Monument. Text reads: “Shea’s Rapid Recap #51” and highlights The Hiking CEO, Shea Oliver.
Join me on an unforgettable hike through Echo Canyon in Chiricahua National Monument, where nature's stunning rock formations tell silent stories of resilience and beauty.
A man wearing glasses and a green “Dublin” t-shirt smiles while sitting under a large rock formation, embodying human drive. Text reads: "Cochise Stronghold, Dragoon Mountains, Arizona" on the left and "Insightful Reflections" on the lower right. A smartphone frame surrounds him.
Hiking in Cochise Stronghold, I found pictographs, sparking thoughts on human creativity and change. Sitting in the shade of some huge boulders, I ask, "What are you creating?"
A man in a wide-brimmed hat and glasses stands outdoors among trees, embracing nature. Four inset photos highlight Cochise Stronghold, a historic wooden structure, a scenic mountain view, and a cave. Text reads: "Shea’s Rapid Recap #50" and "The Hiking CEO Shea Oliver.
Explore Cochise Stronghold’s history and stunning landscapes in Southeast Arizona, discover hidden pictographs, and discover if a for-sale historic mercantile is for you!
A tour poster for the Queen Mine in Bisbee, AZ highlights mining’s role in America’s economy. A man in glasses and a green shirt appears on a smartphone screen, beside a metal donkey statue and mine entrance labeled "Queen 1915.” Text: “Reflections & Insights.”.
Explore the evolution of mining from past to present, revealing truths about the industry and the need for modern solutions for mining communities.
A man with short curly hair and a beard smiles outdoors near trees. Inset photos highlight a cemetery, the OK Corral entrance, and wooden gallows—capturing his journey through time and adversity in "Shea's Rapid Recap #49 Surviving Tombstone.
Join my adventure to Tombstone, exploring its history at the O.K. Corral and beyond, despite multiple attempts and the weather’s challenges. A tourist trap worth the journey!
A scenic mountain sunset frames three photos: a miner underground, vibrant blue minerals, and an old mining street. Text highlights the Queen Mine Tour, Bisbee Mining Museum, and eating with locals. “The Hiking CEO Shea Oliver” logo is featured.
Exploring Bisbee: Queen City Mine tour, rich mining history, a funky downtown, and savoring delicious Mexican food at Las Tochas. A perfect blend of adventure and taste!
Man in orange helmet talks in foreground; logo "The Hiking CEO Shea Oliver" above. Three inset images: stone building with statue, a bus named "Royal Traveler," and a person eating a sandwich. Text: "Shea's Rapid Recap #47 Coronado National Forest and Memorial plus Fort Huachuca, Bisbee, & Arizona's National Scenic Trail.
Exploring Coronado National Forest, hiking sky islands, visiting military museums, and savoring local flavors in Bisbee. An adventure worth every step!
Man with glasses in the foreground speaking. Overlay text: "The Hiking CEO Shea Oliver," "Shea's Rapid Recap #46," detailing a journey through Arizona’s Past. Inset images showcase Coronado Forest, historic structures, and vibrant cactus scenes, all set against a sunny backdrop.
Explore historic Patagonia and Sonoita, AZ ranches, the scenic beauty of Coronado National Forest, and an unexpected challenge from a dirt road on my Ultimate American Quest.
A man in a green cap and glasses stands before a timeworn brick and stone wall. Nearby images reveal an interior hallway, a tasty plate of gorditas, and a historic mission building. "The Hiking CEO Shea Oliver. Shea's Rapid Recap #45: Feel the Echoes of History in Arizona's Missions & Trails.
In this mini-adventure, I explore Tumacacori National Historic Park, savor delicious Mexican food, and chat about a change to my website and a clarified focus for my adventure.
A black Jeep with roof storage is parked next to a small, silver teardrop camper on a dirt clearing in the Sierra Vista District of Coronado National Forest. Sparse greenery and rugged hills surround the area, shaded by overhanging trees, creating a serene camping atmosphere under a partly cloudy sky.
Rolling back into a forest with larger trees was emotionally soothing and allowed me to check off National Treasure #48 on my quest list, with #49 and an interesting museum close by.
Sunny outdoor courtyard at a Mexican restaurant, featuring rustic wooden benches around a circular table. A white building with a wooden door and windows stands in the background. Two colorful skeleton statues add flair by a stone wall next to a small tree, under the blue sky with some clouds above.
After a wonderful visit to the Tucumcari National Historic Park, I was craving some good Mexican food. While I haven't had the best luck in Arizona, I knew this place would be tasty.
A black Jeep is towing a small teardrop trailer through a desert landscape, evoking a sense of déjà vu. Sparse vegetation and dry grass cover the rocky ground. Rugged mountains rise against a clear blue sky, one prominent peak towering on the left, all bathed in bright daylight.
When I returned to the force Road near Amado, I was happy to find that the exact same camp spot was available and someone made it even easier to back in than last time.