Coconino National Forest: Arizona

When you think about “Arizona,” your mind might automatically conjure up visions of cacti and the desert. And when you think about the word “forest,” you’ll probably imagine miles of evergreen-covered mountains.

Well, this particular woodland somehow defies both sets of those expectations. It boasts a landscape that goes from dramatic red rock formations to an alpine tundra. The wildlife in the area is just as varied.

You’ll find elk, black bears, javelinas, rattlesnakes, and much more. It’s no wonder that this National Forest is so famous for its outdoor recreation. Visitors get to hike, go horseback riding, fish, and camp.

Another notable feature of this forest is that it’s a significant archaeological site. It sits on top of the remains of an ancient Sinagua village at Elden Pueblo.

The objects recovered here are believed to have originated as far away as California and even Mexico, suggesting that a prominent trade outpost was nearby.