Tucson can be arguably boring at times, and a lot of us get into the same rhythm of staying in. It is so important to utilize the beautiful state that we're in, and adventure as much as possible! If you don't have a car, then find a friend that you can carpool with. I promise, you will be so glad that you decided to road trip and explore our surroundings. At the end of college, I want to be able to say that I traveled all over Arizona, and experienced the best parts of nature (and I'm sure you do too)!

here are the top 5 places to road trip to:

1. Mt. Lemmon

1-hour drive from Tucson.

Okay this one can be super obvious to a lot of locals, but surprisingly a lot of students have yet to take a trip to Mt. Lemmon. It's a beautiful little microclimate, and this mountain is usually about twenty degrees cooler than Tucson, which can be an amazing getaway during the hottest days. Most people don't even know that there is a lake where you can walk, run, or even fish in!

2. Picacho Peak

41 minutes from Tucson.

Picacho Peak is an awesome place to hike, but make sure you bring sunblock and LOTS of water. There is also a cute ostrich farm where you can feed the ostriches, and even pet stingray!

3. The Grand Canyon

5 hours from Tucson.

The Grand Canyon is one of the seven wonders of the world, and it's only about a 5 hour car ride away! Definitely rent an airbnb and spend the weekend hiking, rafting, or rock climbing.

4. Seven Falls

25 minutes from the University of Arizona.

This is one of my favorite hikes in Tucson, by far! I would highly recommend going right after it rains, because that's when the falls are the fullest! Make sure you bring your swim suit, and go early because the sun is super intense.

5. Lake Pleasant

2 1/2 hours from Tucson.

This was by far one of my favorite hikes in Phoenix. My friends and I actually saw a herd of wild horses grazing, fighting, and even mating (yeah that last one wasn't the best to witness)! There is also a place where you can cliff jump, but be prepared, its a mile hike up a rocky path!

Overall, my favorite places to road trip to have been Seven Falls, Lake Pleasant, and Mt. Lemmon. I really recommend stepping out into nature. Instead of staying in and watching a movie, rather enjoy what Arizona has to offer. Arizona is a beautiful state, make sure that you don't miss out on taking an adventure whether it's in Tucson or beyond.