PHOENIX – Fall colors reach Arizona slightly later than the rest of the country, but when it happens, it’s a big show! Visit these Arizona state parks during October to check out the vibrant leaves and enjoy the cool fall weather outdoors.

Make your home base at Dead Horse Ranch State Park and head out on day trips to the surrounding parks in Jerome, Sedona and Camp Verde to check out the beauty. Or, plan a weekend getaway to Cottonwood, Sedona or Payson. All three are just short drives from the Phoenix metro area, and all have great hiking trails to help take advantage of the season.

1. Red Rock State Park: With five miles of trails to explore, this park gives you a bird’s-eye view of the colorful foliage scattered among the stunning red rocks of Sedona. Check out the Eagle’s Nest trail for a complete overview of the park, or hike up to the House of Apache Fires for a stunning view. 
    
2. Slide Rock State Park: Don’t be fooled by this park’s summertime hustle. In the fall, you can enjoy calm picnics with bright bursts of red, orange and yellow trees on the cliffs surrounding the park, or overlook Oak Creek and enjoy dotted color on its banks. This busy summertime hub becomes a calm oasis during the fall.
    
3. Dead Horse Ranch State Park: Shady cottonwood trees become gorgeous bursts of yellow and orange during mid to late October here. Trees line the lagoons and cast their beautiful colors on the water. Whether you camp, hike, fish or just enjoy the weather, this is an amazing spot for fall adventure.
    
4. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park: Take a trip to Payson to experience fall and the world’s largest travertine bridge. The park landscape will be dotted with color, perfect as a backdrop for a picnic or leisurely walk. If you’re eager to hike, fall color even makes its appearance as you look out of the natural bridge.
    
5. Rockin’ River Ranch State Park: The newest state park in Camp Verde is flush with cottonwood trees along the lush riparian corridor of the Verde River, giving this park ample area to showcase fall’s best. The trails wind through the park, giving access to fall colors, wildlife, and Verde River habitat. 

Fall is when Arizona comes alive, and whether you choose to head north for a colorful display or enjoy the Sonoran Desert for hiking and camping, there’s no better time to explore Arizona’s state parks.

Connecting people with the outdoors and history of Arizona to build a lifetime of memories.

For information about the more than 30 Arizona state parks and natural areas, the trails and Off-Highway Vehicle programs and State Historic Preservation Office, call 1-877-MY-PARKS or visit AZStateParks.com.

PRESS CONTACT: Michelle Thompson at (480) 589-8877 - Email: pio@azstateparks.gov