Located in the southwestern United States, Arizona is bordered to the west by the states of Nevada and California. It borders Utah to the north and New Mexico to the west. This unique state has one of the largest populations of any landlocked state in the United States and was the 48th state to join the country. Additionally, it was the last state in the continental United States to become a state, on February 14, 1912. With its vast deserts and towering mountains, Arizona was long a sparsely populated state that required anyone living in or visiting the state to be the most resistant of all. souls. Since the 1950s and with the development of refrigeration and air conditioning, the state has seen its population grow rapidly. Today, visitors and natives alike can enjoy all that Arizona has to offer in a comfortable and enjoyable manner. Natural Attractions of Arizona. Considered one of the greatest wonders of the natural world, Arizona's Grand Canyon beckons hikers and naturalists to come and explore its wonderfully colored gorges and majestic views. Formed by the ever-changing Colorado River, this enormous chasm extends over 277 miles long and over 18 miles wide. With a depth of over a mile in some places, the Grand Canyon is truly a natural wonder full of magnificence and beauty that will impress any visitor. In addition to the Grand Canyon, Arizona boasts one of the largest urban parks in the world. South Mountain City Park in Phoenix was set aside to protect this majestic mountain from overdevelopment at the hands of real estate moguls who were trying to create another subdivision to accommodate Phoenix's growing population. Encompassing 15,000 acres of natural desert and arid land, this park offers several miles of trails for the mountain... middle of paper... has to offer, this state is definitely a place that has something for everyone. Whether you're an avid hiker, a music lover, or a history fan, you're sure to find awe-inspiring attractions that will make your visit to Arizona a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Sources Joseph A. Sprince, "Sedona and Oak Creek Travel Guide", The American West Travelogue http://www.amwest-travel.com/awt_sedona_cultural.html "Top Seven Tourist Attractions in Phoenix, Arizona", Travel Kathttp: //www.travelkat.com/top-tourist-attractions-phoenix-arizona/"Top 10 Attractions in Arizona", Choice Hotelshttp://gowest.choicehotels.com/arizona-hotels/top10attractions"An Introduction to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum”, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museumhttp://www.desertmuseum.org/about/“Arizona ”, History Channel http://www.history.com/topics/arizona