Discover the 8 Most Dangerous Places in Arizona

Arizona boasts beautiful desert landscapes and relatively safe towns. However, there are quite a few dangerous places in Arizona. The state’s hot, dry climate, paired with numerous remote areas, is a recipe for disaster for those who are not prepared or aware of their surroundings.

So, let’s take a look at the most dangerous wilderness areas, towns, and roads in Arizona.

Dangerous Wilderness Areas in Arizona

1. The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a place of awe-inspiring landscapes and endless outdoor activities. Despite all its beauty, it notoriously ranks as one of the most dangerous national parks in the United States. Nearly 800 people have died in the park since the early 1900s, with an average of 12 deaths per year. In addition, there are more ranger rescues in the Grand Canyon than in any other national park.

The deaths that occur within the park include cliff falls, drownings, dehydration, murder, and suicide.

2. The Superstition Mountains

East of Phoenix, out in the desert of Arizona, lies the Superstition Mountains. It is a popular location for hiking, especially for those in search of treasure. Legend has it that the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine is located somewhere in these mountains. The mine is not only an alluring story of lost riches, but it is also the cause of many deaths. Ill-prepared “gold mine hunters” have died while in search of the fabled mine.

Many people have perished in the Superstition Mountains due to the rugged terrain and extreme desert climate, but probably the most chilling incidents have been the numerous mysterious disappearances. For more than 150 years, several people have disappeared, never to be seen again.

3. Arizona’s Many Slot Canyons

Arizona has several famously gorgeous slot canyons. People from all over the world come to rappel down, hike through, and photograph this unique landscape. However, slot canyons can be extremely dangerous, especially during times of heavy rain.

Slot canyons are formed by water rushing through the sandstone and limestone over millions of years. So, heavy rainfall can often lead to flash flooding within the slot canyons. It is essential to check the weather before embarking into the canyons in Arizona. You should also observe posted warnings, stay back from cliff edges, and bring plenty of food and water for your hike.

Dangerous Towns in Arizona

4. South Tucson

Sitting just south of Arizona’s largest city, South Tucson has quite a few fun activities to offer. There’s beautiful architecture, museums, zoos, and even the Saguaro National Park nearby. However, violent crime in South Tucson ranks higher than anywhere in the state. Property crime is also on the rise, and the city’s crime rate as a whole ranks 4.4 times higher than the national average.

5. Globe

If you want to immerse yourself in Wild West history, Globe is a great place to visit. The town is filled with historic buildings and picturesque desert landscapes. But, old-timey southwestern architecture aside, Globe is one of the most dangerous towns in Arizona. It ranks second most dangerous for violent crimes and third most dangerous for property crimes in the state.

6. Tolleson

Another Arizona city with a high crime rate is Tolleson, which is located just west of the Phoenix metropolitan area. It takes the top spot for most property crimes in Arizona and ranks fourth for violent crimes.

Dangerous Roads in Arizona

7. Interstate 10

The portion of I-10 that runs through Arizona, specifically the 150-mile stretch from Tucson to Phoenix, perennially ranks as one of the most dangerous roads in the state. Heavy traffic and the lack of guardrails or center barriers in certain sections of the interstate contribute to the number of serious accidents. In addition, drunk driver-caused crashes are common occurrences.

8. US Route 93

Stretching 200 miles through the desert from Wickenburg to the border of Nevada, the Arizona portion of US Route 93 is one of the most dangerous roads in America. The remote stretch of the highway sees a lot of reckless driving, excessive speeding, and, unfortunately, fatal car crashes. There were 35 deaths reported from 2015 to 2020, and many more nonfatal vehicle crashes.

Summary of the 8 Most Dangerous Places in Arizona

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/jenifoto