Welcome to the Arizona Strip
The Untamed Wild of the American West — your guide to the communities, landmarks, and wide-open country between the Grand Canyon and the Utah line.
Gateway to the Grand Canyon
Wander through a wealth of protected areas, including several U.S. Wilderness Areas, U.S. National Monuments, and the northern section of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Marvel at the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon–Parashant, Pipe Spring, Vermilion Cliffs, and more. Enjoy a range of outdoor activities from hiking and camping to bird-watching and star-gazing.
A Rugged Wilderness
Journey through the remote expanse of the Arizona Strip, a captivating region that offers an authentic taste of the American West's timeless beauty and wonder. Boasting an area larger than several U.S. states, this region lies north of the Colorado River and is home to less than 10,000 inhabitants, providing an unforgettable experience of true tranquility and wilderness.
Discover the Arizona Strip
From red-rock canyons to welcoming small towns, here is what makes this corner of the Southwest worth the trip.
Unmatched Natural Beauty
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Arizona Strip, ranging from arid red-rock canyon country to stretches of grassland, dotted with juniper trees and eventually leading into pinyon pine and juniper forests. Experience the higher elevations of the Kaibab Plateau with its ponderosa pines, spruce, firs, and aspen - a spectacle for the senses.
Our Communities
Discover the charming settlements of Colorado City, Fredonia, and Beaver Dam, along with smaller communities such as Scenic, Littlefield, and Desert Springs. The Kaibab Indian Reservation, a significant cultural landmark, also lies within this region. Enjoy the hospitality of our small towns, indulge in local flavors, and experience the diverse cultures that make the Arizona Strip unique.
Convenient Access
The Arizona Strip, despite its vast and seemingly remote landscape, is well-connected to both Arizona and neighboring states via major highways - I-15, Arizona State Route 389, and U.S. Route 89A. These significant routes link the region with the rest of Arizona while also offering convenient access to Utah, and Nevada, including the nearby border town of Mesquite, NV. Interestingly, the Arizona Strip is geographically closer to the metropolitan hub of St. George, Utah than most parts of its own state, creating a unique blend of cultures. This also establishes the region as a pivotal access point from Utah into Arizona, underscoring its strategic importance in the transportation network of the American West.
A Growing Rural Presence
Over the past decade, the AZ strip has drawn in a surge of new residents, captivated by the allure of Arizona Strip's unique tranquility and breathtaking natural landscapes. More people are setting their roots, purchasing homes amidst the sprawling red-rock canyons and lush sagebrush vegetation. Ranging from cozy cabins to modern homes boasting panoramic views, there is something for every taste. As the old west charm meets modern comfort, the Arizona Strip is fast becoming a sought-after destination for homeownership.
When to Visit the Arizona Strip
Spring (March–May): The sweet spot. Wildflowers bloom across the lower desert, daytime highs sit in the 70s and 80s, and every road on the Strip is usually open. This is the best season for long hikes and backcountry drives.
Summer (June–September): Lower elevations around Mesquite and the Virgin River Gorge regularly top 100°F, while the Kaibab Plateau stays pleasantly cool in the 80s. July through September brings monsoon storms — dramatic skies, but dirt roads can become impassable within minutes, so check forecasts before heading out.
Fall (October–November): Crisp air, golden aspens on the plateau, and thin crowds. Arguably the prettiest time to visit Toroweap and the North Rim country before winter closures begin.
Winter (December–February): The high country sees real snow and many plateau roads close, but the low desert stays mild — ideal for exploring the Virgin Mountains and the communities along I-15.
Start Exploring the Arizona Strip
Questions about the region, the roads, or where to begin? We are happy to point you in the right direction.