Grand Canyon
A mile deep and 277 miles long. Nothing prepares you for the first look.
3 national parks in Arizona
National Parks in Arizona
Arizona has 3 national parks. Here's when each one is at its best, and the months that work for seeing several on one trip.
April is the best overall for Arizona's parks. Grand Canyon: Apr–May, Oct; Petrified Forest: Apr–May, Oct; Saguaro: Nov–Apr.
Season calendar
The parks
Petrified Forest
Rainbow-colored fossil logs, the Painted Desert and a stretch of old Route 66.
Saguaro
Forests of giant saguaro cacti on both sides of Tucson.
Road trips through Arizona
Grand Canyon, Zion & Bryce
The classic Southwest loop from Las Vegas: the Grand Canyon's South Rim, Zion's narrow canyon and Bryce's hoodoos.
Desert Winter Escape
Three desert parks at their best in the cold months: below sea level, boulders and giant cacti.
Nearby parks in other states
Bryce Canyon
Utah · Best May–Jun, Sep–Oct
Zion
Utah · Best Apr, Oct–Nov
Mesa Verde
Colorado · Best May–Jun, Sep–Oct
Capitol Reef
Utah · Best Apr–May, Sep–Oct
Questions
How many national parks are in Arizona?
Arizona has 3 national parks: Grand Canyon National Park, Petrified Forest National Park, Saguaro National Park.
When is the best time to visit national parks in Arizona?
April is the best overall for Arizona's parks. Grand Canyon: Apr–May, Oct; Petrified Forest: Apr–May, Oct; Saguaro: Nov–Apr.
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.