The American Southwest is a treasure trove of breathtaking natural beauty, boasting an array of striking landscapes that leave visitors in awe. From the rust-hued rock formations that dominate the scenery to the crystal-clear rivers that flow through valleys like liquid silver, there’s no shortage of Instagram-worthy spots waiting to be discovered. Having had the privilege of visiting this region multiple times, I’ve had the opportunity to capture its essence through my photographs and share them with you on social media. But, I wanted to do more than just share snippets – I wanted to give you a deeper glimpse into what makes this incredible region so special.
Instagrammable Spots Around the Southwest
Discovering the breathtaking beauty of the Southwest US has never been easier with this comprehensive guide. Embark on a visual journey through iconic destinations that will leave you in awe and inspired to create stunning Instagram-worthy moments. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply seeking travel inspiration, this guide is designed to transport you to the heart of the Southwest, where vibrant landscapes meet endless possibilities for memorable experiences.
Mystic Hot Springs
As we traversed through Moab, Utah, a fleeting glance at Mystic Hot Springs’ captivating photographs caught my attention, beckoning me to make an impromptu detour. The short stop proved to be an invaluable respite from the journey’s monotony. Upon arrival, I was struck by the serene ambiance of the hot spring, where I could unwind and bond with friends amidst a picturesque backdrop of rust-hued rocks. The juxtaposition of these natural wonders created an enticing photo opportunity that further solidified my decision to pause en route.
Delicate Arch
As I arrived in Moab, my initial stop was the iconic Delicate Arch. This enchanting site left a lasting impression on me, ranking as one of my top picks for shorter hikes in the area. The 2.9-mile trek to the arch’s base took approximately 30 minutes to complete. While it’s a popular destination, drawing numerous visitors, the hike remains enjoyable, with breathtaking views that make up for the crowds. Whether you visit during peak season or at dawn/dusk, the Delicate Arch is an irresistible photogenic hotspot.
Window at Arches National Park
Step into the breathtaking landscape of Arches National Park and discover the Window, a must-see destination that offers easy access and awe-inspiring rock formations. The photo below was captured just minutes away from the road, showcasing the park’s unique blend of natural beauty and convenience. A short trail and designated parking area make it effortless to reach this stunning viewpoint, where your imagination can run wild as you snap creatively framed photos.
Hammer Rock at Arches National Park
As I explored Arches National Park, one notable stop was The Hammer Rock, which immediately caught my eye due to its uncanny resemblance to Thor’s iconic hammer. The ideal time to visit this natural wonder is during sunrise when the soft, golden light perfectly frames the rock, creating an otherworldly ambiance. This unique geological formation not only offers a breathtaking sight but also presents a fantastic opportunity for a memorable Instagram photo shoot.
Canyonlands for Star Photos
Canyonlands offers a unique celestial experience at night, showcasing a different kind of beauty than its famous arches during the day. We spent some time exploring this stunning location after dark, capturing the breathtaking vistas of the star-studded sky. Despite being a popular spot, especially around the iconic arches, we were still able to snap plenty of photos due to the area’s remote location and lack of city lights. This made for incredibly clear views of stars and constellations, providing an unparalleled stargazing experience.
Antelope Canyon
Located on the Arizona-Utah border, Antelope Canyon is a photographer’s paradise. As the sun rises high in the sky, the canyon transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns, making it an ideal spot for capturing breathtaking images like the one depicted below. To avoid the crowds that tend to gather later in the day, I suggest arriving early morning to fully immerse yourself in this natural wonder.
Horseshoe Bend
For an unforgettable sunset experience, Horseshoe Bend is a must-visit destination. The breathtaking scene below remains one of my all-time favorites, taken by Joel and me. What’s more, this natural wonder is completely free to explore – albeit with the caveat that you’ll need to tackle a short hike to reach the iconic bend (don’t forget to plan your footwear accordingly). We captured this stunning photo at sunset, when the area is bustling with people. To secure the perfect spot for an Instagram-worthy shot, I recommend arriving a bit early and staking out your territory.
Bryce Canyon
As the sun dips below the horizon, Bryce Canyon transforms into a celestial canvas, ideal for capturing breathtaking star trail photos. Joel and I had the privilege of staying up all night to capture this stunning Milky Way shot, which remains our personal best to date. The darkness is replaced by a twinkling tapestry of stars, making it a photographer’s paradise. On the flip side, Bryce Canyon’s sunrise presents a serene beauty, with golden hues casting a warm glow on the landscape. This picturesque scene was captured at the viewpoint, where the early risers are rewarded with a perfect blend of natural light and atmospheric drama. While it may require some patience to secure an ideal spot, the end result is well worth the wait.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, boasting breathtaking vistas, majestic waterfalls, and thrilling hiking trails. It’s a place that left me utterly enamored. Despite my visit coinciding with the winter season, when the weather was less than ideal, the snow-covered landscape only served to accentuate the striking red hues of the park’s iconic rock formations. The added bonus of visiting during the off-season meant fewer crowds and closed trails, which only heightened my desire to return and uncover more of Zion’s secrets.
Havasu Falls
Amongst the southwest’s most coveted tourist hotspots is Havasu Fall, a breathtaking destination that has captured the hearts of many social media enthusiasts. Despite its remote location at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, the effort required to reach this natural wonder is well worth it. Securing a permit online is crucial, as the process can be arduous depending on the type of permit you’re seeking. To avoid disappointment, book your appointment well in advance – sometimes up to a year prior is necessary. I had the privilege of visiting during the off-season and opted for a helicopter ride down to the falls, followed by a return trip. The $80 per person fee was a small price to pay for the convenience. A short hike from the landing pad to the falls awaited, a far cry from the grueling 8-mile trek without the aerial assistance. As I took in the majestic beauty of Havasu Fall, I knew I’d be returning soon – next time, I’m keen to tackle the canyon hike and experience it all for myself.
Valley of Fire
For those who have fallen under the enchantment of the red and orange hues in the initial landscape, the Valley of Fire is a visual paradise that will not disappoint. The unique rock formations, with their rust-hued tones, provide an photographer’s dream canvas. To truly make your photos stand out, consider incorporating clothing or accessories that harmonize with the earthy tones of the rocks, allowing the natural beauty to shine even brighter.
Seven Magic Mountains
Surrounded by the vast expanse of the Southwest US desert landscape, Seven Magic Mountains stands out as a quirky and charming attraction. Situated mere miles outside of Las Vegas, this unique site boasts vibrant stacks of colorful rocks that seem to glow in the harsh desert sunlight. The remote location only adds to the allure, making the multicolored formations appear even more striking against the desolate backdrop. For me, it was an absolute delight
Las Vegas by Air
Imagine soaring above the vibrant cityscape of Las Vegas in a doorless helicopter – it’s an adventure that should be on every thrill-seeker’s must-do list! I had the privilege of flying with FlyNYON and can attest to the unparalleled exhilaration of taking in the glittering lights and bustling streets from a unique aerial perspective. The sheer scale and majesty of the city’s skyline, illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights, is an unforgettable experience that will leave even the most seasoned traveler in awe.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon, one of the most frequented destinations globally, boasts an array of captivating features that make it an Instagram enthusiast’s paradise. The striking vistas, dynamic seasons, and diverse wildlife all contribute to its allure. In fact, it’s challenging to snap a photo here that wouldn’t be worthy of an ‘gram post. Moreover, the Grand Canyon offers a multitude of fantastic vantage points for photography enthusiasts. If you haven’t had the chance to visit during winter, I highly suggest adding it to your itinerary – the stark contrast between the snow-covered terrain and the layered orange and red rock formations is nothing short of breathtaking. Our recent trip saw us make a brief pit stop at the outer rim, leaving us eager to plan a return excursion to delve deeper into this magnificent area. A Las Vegas to Grand Canyon road trip would also be an excellent addition to any Nevada-based travel plans.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a visual masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on my travel experiences. The lake’s tranquil surface reflects the majestic surrounding mountains, creating a breathtaking panorama that begs to be captured on camera. While it may seem like a world away from Arizona and Utah’s arid landscapes, Lake Tahoe’s unique climate brings a welcome respite from the desert heat. Pack accordingly – a light jacket can make all the difference as the temperature cools down in the evenings. As I reflect on my travels through the Southwest, I’m reminded of the importance of capturing life’s beauty through the lens of a camera and sharing those moments with others. The allure of this region is undeniable, and I hope you’ll get the chance to experience it firsthand, snapping your own stunning photos along the way.