ARIZONAAZ365: Arizona life 2015"My wife and myself just stood there in silence for a few minutes admiring what looked like a sky set on fire," writes Mike Conklin of Phoenix about this December sunset they saw from Lookout Mountain. See more of his photos at instagram.com/mikey_myke82.Photo: Mike ConklinThis was the otherworldly view that greeted Patrick Bulger of Mesa on his hike up Browns Peak, part of the Four Peaks Wilderness east of Phoenix. The trail is rated as difficult and ice can be present in winter. See more of his photos at instagram.com/ny_2_az.Photo: Patrick Bulger"It looked as if she was swimming in the sky," says Joseph Von Frechen of Phoenix about his stormy-evening portrait of the famous Mesa landmark, the Diving Lady neon sign. The midcentury animated sign on the old U.S. 60 perches 78 feet above its home at the Starlite Motel. See more of his photos at instagram.com/starryeyedfool.Photo: Joseph Von FrechenA winter's flight over the Grand Canyon South Rim landed Dennis Taylor of Cave Creek this snowy scene. He writes: "It's quite a surreal experience to depart Phoenix, Arizona, and quickly be surrounded in a winter wonderland at the Grand Canyon. This respective photograph was taken during the aerial approach to land at the Tusayan Airport." See more of his photos at shuttervita.com.Photo: Dennis TaylorChiricahua National Monument in southeast Arizona is "a place with lots of history near where Cochise fought and hid out from the U.S. Army," writes Stuart Selden of Phoenix. It's not lacking in scenery, either. He took this photo of Pinnacle Balanced Rock along the Heart of Rocks loop trail. See more of his photos at instagram.com/az_climber.Photo: Stuart SeldenSedona is known for its out-of-this-world vibe, so perhaps it's fitting that this climbing area there is called The Planetarium. Jesse Martin of Sedona photographed Wilson Cutbirth (left) climbing the Galactic Hitchhiker route, as Mike Broad is lowered down from Mission to Mars. Martin says this area is popular in wintertime because it is west facing and gets afternoon sun. See more of his photos at instagram.com/sedonaadventurephotography.Photo: Jesse MartinGeorge Zele of Peoria was out fishing at Lake Pleasant when the sky burned red with this sunset. His wife, Adriana, writes, "Because he knows I love beautiful sunsets and on this day I was out of town, he did not want me to miss this amazing view so he snapped this picture with his phone and text it to me." She posted it to her Instagram account, instagram.com/trailwanderlust.Photo: George ZeleThe sun peeks through fog on Bush Highway near Saguaro Lake in this photo by Kyle Benne of Scottsdale. See more of his photos at instagram.com/kbenne21.Photo: Kyle Benne"I've gone to the park before and enjoyed the museum and ruins as I'm very interested in Native American culture," says Don Lawrence of San Tan Valley. The luminarias on display around the holidays at Besh Ba Gowah Archaeological Park and Museum in Globe make the attraction festive for the season. See more of his photos at donlawrencephoto.com.Photo: Don Lawrence"Look, Daddy, Kwistmas!" Brett Bartlett of Scottsdale captured this moment with his 3-year-old daughter, Mallory, at Hotel Palomar in Phoenix. He says, "She is super excited for Christmas and keeps talking about Santa coming and 'he go "ho ho ho"' while she holds her stomach." See more of his photos at instagram.com/bretth_b.Photo: Brett BartlettIt's the place that gives his family a perfect view of the sun setting over Camelback Mountain, says Ben Dalton of Mesa. He framed his kids (from left) Anja, Nika, Triston and Liam at their viewing spot near Recker Road between McDowell Road and the Red Mountain Freeway and captioned the image: "Giving thanks x 4." See more of his photos at instagram.com/typoglycemic.Photo: Ben DaltonThe Gilbert Riparian Preserve is a "nature photographer's paradise, with water fowl, raptors, dragonflies and many other different animals," says Chad Fleming of Scottsdale. He spotted this Chinese goose among dozens of Canada geese: "This particular goose really stood out." See more of his photos at instagram.com/chirpy72.Photo: Chad FlemingTy Schmitt of La Jolla, Calif., says Sedona is like his second home. "I have been shooting around the Cathedral Rock area for years, patiently waiting for snow to cover the red rocks with the evening sun," he says. "On this day I spent hours waiting for the clouds to clear; just as I was about to give up hope the sun peeked through the clouds for few minutes at sunset and I was able to capture this image." See more of his photos at instagram.com/tyschmitt.Photo: Ty SchmittA late-afternoon hike up Camelback Mountain rewarded Andy Klein of Scottsdale with this view from the lower half of the Echo Canyon Trail. See more of his photos at instagram.com/kleindru.Photo: Andy KleinEric Bender of Tempe and his fiance went out to Four Peaks Wilderness to watch the Geminid meteor shower. He says they watched for about three hours and saw around 100 meteors: "Most were very faint but we saw four or five very bright ones. I just happened to catch this one." See more of his photos at instagram.com/yowatsupman.Photo: Eric BenderWhen the holiday spirit comes to the desert, even the cactus gets decorated. Tj Roxas of Tucson shares this story: "I was doing family portraits (near Amado) ... and as we were finishing up, the full moon was rising. I took a couple shots of just the cactus and the moon when my friend's father told me to hold on a minute. He walks away, and next thing I know the cactus lights up!" See more of his photos at instagram.com/tjroxasphotography.Photo: Tj RoxasAn only-in-Arizona moment: Snow on saguaros. Terry Temple of Tucson captured this scene in the foothills of the Catalina Mountains near Tucson. He says, "I am in awe of the beauty of snow covering the desert plants, especially the awesome giants." See more of his photos at instagram.com/puebloparadiso.Photo: Terry TempleNow THIS is how Arizona does a white winter. Mac Turberville of Phoenix shot this photo from the Mogollon Rim after "a successful Christmas tree hunt" in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.Photo: Mac TurbervilleNicolette Scholl of Phoenix says her little doxie, Jax, often snuggles like this. "He loves to dive under the covers and run around like a mole in a tunnel until he finds his way out," she says. See more of her photos at instagram.com/niknakmarie.Photo: Nicolette SchollThis cactus flower blooms for one night only, so Patti Quinn kept a close watch on this one in her Tucson yard. She writes: "I ran for my camera and took a lot of photos as the sun was shedding light on the bloom. The petals have many shades of violet color and the stalk is about 4 inches long. By nightfall, it is all drooping down and it falls off." See more of her photos at instagram.com/pmquinn96.Photo: Patti QuinnThis mural adorns the Roberto-Venn School of Luthiery along Grand Avenue in Phoenix. Erika Deles of Phoenix was there and snapped this shot of her dog Bella. She writes: "I thought this piece was really pretty as I like Dia de los Muertos art, and I liked how it stood out from the solidly painted brown building." See more of her photos at instagram.com/redpaintedsky.Photo: Erika DelesAfter months of public pressure and political backlash, the Tonto National Forest will permanently drop all plans to round up and remove nearly 100 free-roaming horses near the Salt River. Rod Small of Florence says this stallion was keeping a close watch on him and his dog when the pair encountered the band in Tonto National Forest. See more of his photos at instagram.com/mass2az.Photo: Rod SmallPeekaboo! Abbee Day of Surprise and her husband were retracing their honeymoon from 15 years ago when they found this curious equine at Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site. See more of her photos at instagram.com/az_trailhawk.Photo: Abbee DayHere, kitty kitty kitty ... oh wait! That's no kitty! Look what Jeremy and Joy Johnson found strolling through their northeast Mesa neighborhood: A bobcat. Jeremy Johnson writes: "He is quite a bit smaller than the ones we usually see, but his pelt was the most beautiful one I have ever seen!" See more of his photos at instagram.com/jermojohnson.Photo: Jeremy And Joy JohnsonIt's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the top of Camelback Mountain. Ricardo Tzintzun of Mesa found this holiday surprise at the summit of his hike. See more of his photos at instagram.com/_zinzun_.Photo: Ricardo TzintzunWinter in Yuma means lettuce season. Kelley Paulin of Yuma says he was on his way to go hiking when this view of Muggins Mountain over Dome Valley lettuce caught his eye. See more of his photos at instagram.com/kelleypaulin.Photo: Kelley PaulinHailey Golich of Flagstaff snapped this photo of her friend Hannah Gray providing a pop of bright color against this snowy scene near Hart Prairie. See more of her photos at instagram.com/haileygolich.Photo: Hailey GolichJudith Fedo of Phoenix hashtagged her photo #goodmorning before sharing it on Instagram. She writes, "So glad you enjoyed my snap of the Valley looking westward!" She says the photo was taken in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains in the northwest Valley. See more of her photos at instagram.com/visualdialoguez.Photo: Judith Fedo"Juniper wants that Milky Way," writes Justin Dodson of Gilbert. While the tree looks like it's reaching for the stars, Dodson captured them in all their glory in Sedona with this 20-second exposure. See more of his photos at instagram.com/the_power_of_failing.Photo: Justin Dodson"The building was always a dark box, but the addition of simple lights made it a landmark almost overnight," says Adam Lopez Falk of Phoenix about the Bank of American building on Central Avenue in Phoenix. See more of his photos at instagram.com/adamlopezfalk.Photo: Adam Lopez FalkThe Grand Canyon was playing peekaboo through the clouds the day that Dagan Sassarini of Phoenix visited the North Rim. He says, "I'm a native Arizonan but I had never been to the North Rim before so I just decided to take the trip. The entire park was gorgeous." See more of his photos at instagram.com/dgn.jpg.Photo: Dagan SassariniDaniel King of Coolidge says he's always on the hunt for new spots to capture Arizona's breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. He woke up early to frame this sunrise along State Route 87 near Coolidge. "I just enjoy capturing Mother Nature as it's happening," he says. See more of his photos at instagram.com/daniel602_.Photo: Daniel KingA deviation from his usual trail running routes put James Rhead of Mesa in near-perfect position to photograph the moonrise in the Goldfield Mountains. He says, "I almost didn't catch the moon since it was behind that big cliff from where I was running, but then I went a little south of where I was and it appeared! I thought it would rise further south and I would get the Superstitions in the background, but I love how it was so close to that cliff in the Goldfield range and how the clouds were lit up different colors by the setting sun." See more of his photos at instagram.com/anselrhead.Photo: James RheadParadise Forks is one of the best areas in Arizona for crack climbing, says Stewart M. Green of Colorado Springs, Colo. Green is working on a book about climbing in Arizona and traveled to this site near the edge of Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Area southwest of Flagstaff, where he caught Charlie Henrikson in action on a route he calls "Born Under a Bad Sign." See more of his photos at instagram.com/stewartmgreen.Photo: Stewart M. GreenIt's a golfer's life, seen via GoPro, in this photo by Kamiko Mannie. She teed up her shot at the Aguila Golf Course in Laveen. See more of her photos at instagram.com/__kamiko__.Photo: Kamiko Mannie"This particular organ pipe cactus is about 15 feet tall. Reportedly the biggest one out there," says Mike Sanchez of Scottsdale about the curvy beauty he found in Organ Pipe National Monument. He pulled an all-nighter taking photos like this star trail exposure. He says it's about an hour's worth of the Earth's rotation. See more of his photos at instagram.com/the_sanchz.Photo: Mike SanchezThat is quite the look from this burrowing owl. Maybe it has something to say about birds and Thanksgiving? Matt Wilczek of Surprise caught this feathered staredown in action in a wash by a Litchfield Park elementary school. See more of his photos at instagram.com/mattwilczekphotography.Photo: Matt Wilczek"I'm a big waterfall fan, and Grand Falls is kind of iconic," says Richard Webb of Mesa. He scouted this location on the Navajo Nation several times until the conditions were just right. See more of his photos at instagram.com/richardkwebb.Photo: Richard Webb"Photography is an art form," says Brandon Gray of Phoenix. He captured downtown Phoenix in motion with this long exposure and then added the blue effect in Adobe Lightroom. He titled it: "Blue Steel." See more of his photos at instagram.com/brandoninaz.Photo: Brandon Gray"I live in Tucson but made a road trip up to the Butterfly Wonderland because I had heard that it was a fantastic place, and it was!" writes Jessica Cary-Alvarez. She spotted this monarch butterfly at the Scottsdale-area attraction. See more of her photos at instagram.com/ciquah.Photo: Jessica Cary-AlvarezPhotographers love the "golden hour" when the light goes soft and colors shine. Adam Clump of Jerome captured this golden scene at Arizona Snowbowl near Flagstaff. See more of his photos at instagram.com/5000feet.Photo: Adam Clump"This beautiful (and shedding) red fox was more than happy to engage in a staring contest during a visit to Bearizona," says Caroline Horowitz of Chandler. See more of her photos at instagram.com/cameracrazycaroline.Photo: Caroline HorowitzEric English of Phoenix has just one thing to say about his Phoenix sunset photo: "You needn't gild the lily." See more of his photos at instagram.com/englishphotos.Photo: Eric EnglishSomeone's found the Christmas spirit! Ethan Pouwels of Chandler says his 2-year-old daughter, Lilou, has recently become "very aware" of anything Christmas. He says he and his wife took her to the Mesa Riverview mall to see the 20-foot-tall Christmas tree: "She immediately ran towards it yelling 'twees!!' She climbed the planter and examined every Christmas ball within her reach. It was hard to pull her away but promised her she'll be seeing plenty more 'twees.'" See more of his photos at instagram.com/liloudaddy.Photo: Ethan PouwelsThe sun hadn't been up for long when Mareli Aguilera of Phoenix climbed to the summit of Piestewa Peak and was greeted by this view of hot-air balloons rising over Phoenix. "I'm usually hesitant in carrying all of my camera gear because of the weight, but I decided to do it that day," she says. "It was wonderful to see those balloons adorn our desert." See more of her photos at instagram.com/marsbar926.Photo: Mareli AguileraSnowfall turns Monument Valley into a winter wonderland. Valerina Deswood describes her photo as "when you live in an area where you experience all four seasons" and added the hashtag #southwestisbest. See more of her photos at instagram.com/15vjq.Photo: Valerina DeswoodOn her first visit to Havasupai, Brianna McKenney of Gilbert says she camped right on the edge of Mooney Falls. "As we were cooking breakfast, the morning light and cool mist had produced the most beautiful rainbow, right outside the tent. During the few minutes I was photographing this sight, the aches in my muscles and my fear of heights disappeared," she says. See more of her photos at instagram.com/briannamckenney.Photo: Brianna McKenney"I was hiking in the Grand Canyon National Park when I stumbled upon this guy at about 50 yards," writes Patrick Orme of Glendale about his elk encounter. "I froze so that he would not run away since we both startled each other. He looked right at me and let me take a few pics of him before leaving." See more of his photos at instagram.com/the_wandering_lens_.Photo: Patrick Orme"I love the fair," says Gary Pratt of Phoenix. "I have gone just about every year since I was about 15. The swings are my favorite ride, especially at night. Feels like flying, and you get a 360-degree view of the city all lit up." See more of his photos at instagram.com/mtnlion76.Photo: Gary PrattTim Gleason of Chandler was "just out and about looking for evidence that it had rained and this stood out screamin', 'Shoot me!'" He says it was a simple flower lying in his driveway gutter. See more of his photos at instagram.com/teegeefoto.Photo: Tim GleasonThe rock monolith of Weavers Needle in the Superstition Mountains draws eyes from miles around. Travis Everist of San Tan Valley says, "It was my first time hiking out there and I loved it." He shot this photo near the end of the Peralta Trail. See more of his photos at instagram.com/traviseverist.Photo: Travis EveristBruce Wolke of Gilbert says he's a frequent visitor to the Riparian Preserve to photograph the wildlife. On this particular day, he says, "I just happened to look up while taking a break in the gazebo and ... noticed the interesting combination of lines, angles, light and shadows in the top of the gazebo. In this case, it paid off to take a moment to 'look' in an unlikely place at an unusual angle to get a totally different look of a very normal object." See more of his photos at instagram.com/arizphotodude.Photo: Bruce Wolke"The San Francisco Peaks are especially beautiful in the autumn," says photographer Keri Boothe of Flagstaff, "and with the added snow and clouds it becomes a photographer's dream to capture the moment." See more of her photos at instagram.com/kbootheoutdoorphotography.Photo: Keri BootheScott Davis of Tucson was taking in the raptor show at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson: "I saw the Great Horned Owl was headed to this branch (and) tried to have the focus ready on the point for his arrival, hoped for the best. ... I scrolled back through my shots, saw this one and knew I was lucky and had a keeper." See more of his photos at instagram.com/aqualaddie.Photo: Scott DavisCody Howard of Scottsdale says it was a real treat to see a live desert tortoise in the wild. He was on a backpacking trip in the Superstition Mountains: "I was near the Second Water Trail taking some photos and then he just came cruising on up towards me." See more of his photos at instagram.com/_cody_howard_.Photo: Cody HowardThe Arizona State Fair can be a photographer's paradise. Michelle Tarin of El Mirage shared this fun shot, saying, "I loved the vibrant colors from this game." See more of her photos at instagram.com/phxtarin.Photo: Michelle Tarin"This is one of my most favorite places to hike in northern Arizona, and it's so purely magical. I call it Aspen Wonderland," says Valeria Johnson of Paradise Valley about the Inner Basin Trail near Flagstaff. She adds, "Your first urge as you enter the forest is to stop, lift your head, look around, be in the moment with this stunning community of quaking aspens and appreciate this gift of nature. On the photo you can spot my youngest daughter running on the trail, appreciating all the gold leaves." See more of her photos at instagram.com/valerussia7.Photo: Valeria Johnson"... stop domestic violence." "... fix the education system in Arizona." "... succumb to the Dark Side." Answers vary, but the query is the same on this interactive artwork behind Matt's Big Breakfast in downtown Phoenix: "Before I die I want to ..." Cathleen Daly and Matt List went in search of it and added their answers. "Before I die, I want to share the love of Christ with as many people as possible," List wrote. Daly's answer: "Before I die, I want to visit every country." See more photos at instagram.com/CathleenLDaly and instagram.com/Matt_Liszt96.Photo: Cathleen Daly And Matt ListSedona's West Fork Trail attracts photographers from all over, including Brian Peterson of Peoria, who are hoping to capture its famous fall colors. See more of his photos at instagram.com/bigpete77.Photo: Brian PetersonIt's a flashback to Flagstaff flowers on Shawn Pahl's Instagram. The Ahwatukee resident posted this photo, taken along the road to the Grand Canyon, not long before Arizona's north country was predicted to get its first accumulation of snow. See more of his photos at instagram.com/desert_oasis.Photo: Shawn PahlA desert cottontail rabbit paid a visit to Allison Mayes' Scottsdale yard to dine on prickly pear fruit. See more of her photos at instagram.com/amayesingphotos.Photo: Allison MayesA climb to Robbers Roost gave Aaron Maltby of Peoria this striking Sedona view. He says,"It's a very short 1 mile round-trip hike but the views are breathtaking." See more of his photos at instagram.com/adventureneverstops.Photo: Aaron Maltby"This hawk comes and lands on that cactus every now and then," writes Adriana Zele of Peoria. Recently, her husband spotted it in the back yard and called her to come look: "Of course my camera was ready. I love hiking and nature and I am always out there trying to capture some great moments. Hope everyone enjoys this one as much as I did." See more of her photos at instagram.com/trailwanderlust.Photo: Adriana Zele"Sunset rain this evening over the I-10 out in Goodyear," writes Bradley Marschke of Goodyear. See more of his photos at instagram.com/bradleyjm87.Photo: Bradley MarschkeThis photo was taken in Phoenix by a young man named Jose. He's taking part in the Kids In Focus program, which teaches photography to at-risk youth. His last name is withheld for privacy reasons, but he says this about this photo on the Kids In Focus Facebook page: "When I looked up I saw half of the windmill, the other half was blown out by the sun. I was blinded when I took the picture. It looked interesting because the sun was shining through the vanes." See more images from youths in the Kids In Focus program and read more about the program at instagram.com/kidsinfocus.Photo: JoseThe spotlight falls on Lane Jensen performing the hoop dance at the Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix. Photographer Adam Lopez Falk of Phoenix says, "I've seen hoop dancers before, but getting to see him in the setting of the Orpheum seemed so perfect — a hoop dancer under the 'sky' created on the ceiling of the theater." See more of his photos at instagram.com/adamlopezfalk.Photo: Adam Lopez FalkLook who likes the sound of Halloween. Riccardo Gomez of Phoenix says Amelia likes to hit the pumpkins because she likes the sound it makes. She's very close to taking her first steps, he says, and has been standing up using whatever she can find to help. See more of his photos at instagram.com/rhseedphoto.Photo: Riccardo Gomez"Aspens zigzagging through aspens," writes Talia Paige of Phoenix of her view along the Inner Basin Trail near Flagstaff. See more of her photos at instagram.com/talia.paige.Photo: Talia PaigeThe natural travertine bridge at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is believed to be the largest in the world. Sam Mitchell of Gilbert hiked below it to get this view. See more of his photos at instagram.com/samsonite1971.Photo: Sam MitchellMario Martinez of Tucson was hiking Sabino Canyon and found this black-tailed rattlesnake "hanging out out a tree!" See more of his photos at instagram.com/pachucos_art.Photo: Mario MartinezAs part of the Day of the Dead, people don wooden skull masks called calacas and dance to honor relatives. Luis Araujo of Mesa photographed this dancer at the Tempe Center for the Arts. See more of his photos at instagram.com/bstgwarmonger.Photo: Luis AraujoPadme the Dalmatian won’t need a Halloween costume — her spots already mirror the fallen leaves at Arizona Snowbowl in this photo by Liza García of Scottsdale. See more of her photos at instagram.com/mamacitaliza.Photo: Liza GarcíaIt was golden hour all over for Tony Goeke on this Flagstaff hike, thanks to the changing aspen leaves. See more of his photos at instagram.com/goeke.Photo: Tony Goeke"Caleb and Libby's first visit to a pumpkin patch," says mom Alison Johnson of Phoenix. The twins have plenty of pumpkins to choose from, as shown in this photo taken by their mother. See more of her photos at instagram.com/tooziegoot.Photo: Alison JohnsonA fall storm in mid-October downed power lines, brought flooding and dumped hail over the northeast part of the Valley. Ryann Kelly Savelsberg writes, "You know you live in Phoenix when you go out and collect hail like it's Easter." These penny-sized pieces hit at 55th Avenue and Thunderbird Road.Photo: Ryann Kelly Savelsberg"The last time I hiked Antelope Canyon, I ran into these girls that had a reservation for the upper part of the canyon," says David Howe of Tucson. "They asked if I knew any good spots, so I tagged along for the day." See more of his photos at instagram.com/davidskatestucson.Photo: David HoweLaura Johnson-Fujiyama of Tempe highlights the golden aspens against a bright blue sky in her photo along the Inner Basin Trail near Flagstaff. See more of her photos at instagram.com/subglj.Photo: Laura Johnson-Fujiyama"Arizona has such gorgeous views, even I can take a decent photo," says Jenny Sachs of Findlay, Ohio. She was hiking the Inner Basin Trail near Flagstaff when this aspens grove caught her eye. See more of her photos at instagram.com/jennnnikay.Photo: Jenny SachsMike Devine of Mesa perched on the Loop 202 overpass in east Mesa to catch this storm moving in. He says this image is three shots layered into one, with a change in white balance to change the color of the lightning. See more of his photos at instagram.com/hikeraz.Photo: Mike DevineWater in the desert is like a siren's call, and Kevin Spatt of Scottsdale says this particular oasis was formed by a number of washes funneling together. He says he likes to stake out this spot during the monsoon, as he's seen "everything the desert has to offer at this spot ... except the mountain lion and javelina." See more of his photos at instagram.com/desert_wild.Photo: Kevin SpattEdwin Paciga recently moved away from the Grand Canyon after having worked in the park since 2007. He shot this photo in 2012 when he worked at Lookout Studio, "the best view at any job ever!" He says: "That particular spot looking to the northeast is frequented by rainbows during the monsoon months, so I almost always brought my camera to work - and I was glad I did that day!" See more of his photos at instagram.com/earthbyedwin.Photo: Edwin PacigaDara Heward of Superior says these "amazing boulders" are located by Oak Flats. "We saw these rocks and the amazing sunset forming behind them and I had to grab a shot of it," she says. "The images turned out great, but it wasn't until Reed Porter and my dog Jed climbed up the rocks that it became the ultimate shot I was looking for." See more of her photos at instagram.com/daraheward.Photo: Dara HewardThe iconic "Diving Lady" neon sign first glowed above Mesa's Starlite hotel in 1960. She was knocked off her perch by a 2010 storm, but preservationists helped raise money to have her restored, and she's been diving ever since. Tammy Gabel of Mesa says she recently realized she'd never driven all the way down Mesa's Main Street so she took a sightseeing detour: "I had seen photos of the diving lady before, but never in person and I loved the way the sign looked in the storm." See more of her photos at instagram.com/tamgab.Photo: Tammy GabelJulian Leib of Cologne, Germany, stopped in Sedona while on a two-week road trip through the Southwest. He writes, "I just love the countryside and the desert setting of Arizona; there is nothing comparable in Germany." These cattle skulls for sale at a Sedona art store caught his eye because he "saw so many things of this desert setting concentrated in them." See more of his photos at instagram.com/zlatanator89.Photo: Julian LeibA trip into the Superstition Mountains to shoot star trails was almost foiled by clouds, writes Damian Garcia of Phoenix. He passed the time waiting for the skies to clear by shooting this time-lapse, a seven-minute exposure showing the clouds streaming across the desert sky. See more of his photos at instagram.com/dmg429.Photo: Damian GarciaArizona apparently is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Jason Blaauw of Pine was "super stoked" to get this image while out at Four Peaks in the Mazatzal Mountains. See more of his photos at instagram.com/arizonadreamin.Photo: Jason BlaauwThe supermoon lunar eclipse was just beginning as Todd Halvorsen of Tempe set up for this shot. He writes, "This dead tree is one of few still standing as a result of the 1996 Lone Fire in the Four Peaks Wilderness on the Tonto National Forest. The moon is rising over the Sierra Ancha Mountains and Lake Roosevelt."Provided By Todd HalvorsenA road trip to northern Arizona led Olivia Huerta of Glendale (left) and her friend Rachel Demers of Peoria to the natural blowhole at Wupatki National Monument. Huerta says, "It's really strong and cold during summer and warm during winter. Early a/c! We just had fun on a hot day getting fresh air from underground natural tunnels blown in our faces." See more of her photos at instagram.com/discoverarizonaroadtrips.Photo: Olivia Huerta"View this morning from Piestewa Peak," Mike Saucier of Phoenix writes on his Instagram post. Dark clouds loomed over metro Phoenix early in the day and brought isolated showers. Saucier caught the moment when sun rays tried to break through. See more of his photos at instagram.com/mikethesauce.Photo: Mike Saucier"I was so surprised, I just looked up on top of the hill and there were two of them just staring down at me!" Darcy Rose of Phoenix had an unexpected encounter with a bighorn sheep at Saguaro Lake, but was quick enough to snap a photo before it disappeared. See more of her photos at instagram.com/darcewoman.Photo: Darcy RoseAfter camping overnight at the Flat Iron plateau in the Superstition Mountains, Anthony Swann of Scottsdale says he "woke up to the most amazing sunrise I've seen in years! I hopped out of my tent and snapped that picture!" See more of his photos at instagram.com/swanndive.Photo: Anthony SwannA storm moving in, a random turn down a dirt road, a stop in a spot that time forget. Lindsay Swanberg of Mesa says of her Gold Canyon photo, "I remember distinctly thinking about what it must have been like to be out in the exact spot 100 years ago or more." See more of her photos at instagram.com/swanbergl.Photo: Lindsay Swanberg"The Dells are the coolest rock formations you could imagine within a lake setting," says Michael Heiland of Tucson. The University of Arizona student had been to Watson Lake near Prescott many times, but it was a different experience going there to shoot a timelapse, he says. "When the sun began to hit the horizon that morning, every rock lit up orange." See more of his photos at instagram.com/michaelheiland.Photo: Michael HeilandIt was National Coffee Day and Caroline Horowitz of Chandler shared an appropriately themed photo on Instagram. She says this is a little drive-through coffee shop in Springerville that she photographed in 2013. See more of her photos at instagram.com/cameracrazycaroline.Photo: Caroline HorowitzSometimes you just have to feel the wind in your hair. Or fur, in the case of Pomeranian LillyLuv. Owner Michelle Hudson of Prescott says LillyLuv "truly lives up to her name" and loves car rides. See more of her photos at instagram.com/michellemhudson.Photo: Michelle HudsonPhotographers all over Arizona and the world staked out their positions to capture the rare combination supermoon-lunar eclipse. The last time these lunar events converged was 1982; the combination won't happen again until 2033, according to NASA. Brian Johnson of Phoenix saw the whole thing from his perch at North Mountain and turned it into this artistic composite photo. He explains: "It was a sequence shot of the moon with a telescope and Canon T3i." Before the eclipse, he made a long-exposure timelapse from North Mountain to get the traffic-light streak effect. Then, he says, shots of the moon taken through the telescope were layered over the landscape photo in a curve to create an artistic "moon rising" effect. If you look closely, you might notice that the moon photos on the right side of the photo are identical to the ones on the left, just reversed, he points out.Provided By Brian JohnsonAyanah Newsum of Ahwatukee framed her daughter with the mural outside the Arizona Animal Welfare League in Phoenix. "Juniper vs. the super creepy cat in the animal mural," she says. See more of her photos at instagram.com/ayanah.Photo: Ayanah Newsum"Signs of fall," writes Phil Quijada of Nogales, Ariz. This golden leaf caught his eye as he was visiting his mother, he says. See more of his photos at instagram.com/philosphotography.Photo: Phil QuijadaSharp eyes will spot a person on belay toward the top of the canyon wall. Scott Goldstein of Tempe says he had seen photos of Sundance Canyon on Instagram and "really wanted to check it out." He says as he and his girlfriend hiked along West Clear Creek, they had to brave cold water up to their shoulders to reach this spot. "It was absolutely worth it though as it opened up into one of the most beautiful canyons I've ever seen," he says. "To top it off, we arrived just in time to watch a few people rappel down the massive canyon wall. It was a very cool experience and one of the most beautiful places we've been to in Arizona." See more of his photos at instagram.com/scottgoldstein.Photo: Scott GoldsteinMircea Goia of Phoenix couldn't resist stopping for a self-portrait with the Milky Way. The dark skies about 80 miles west of Phoenix made an ideal place for a photo break on his way back from Los Angeles, he says. See more of his photos at instagram.com/mirceagoia.Photo: Mircea GoiaThe heavens opened up and brought Amanda Nay a rainbow along her drive from Scottsdale to Deer Valley. Nay, from Boise, Idaho, says she's in metro Phoenix for a short time for her job and was "so happy to see a little light and brightness to carry with me into my shift" at the hospital. See more of her photos at instagram.com/amandagracenay.Photo: Amanda NayThis area of the Petrified Forest is known as The Tepees — and it's easy to see why! The grey-blue rocks are 220-225 million years old. Matthew Wolter of Phoenix says he captured this moment "as the sun was setting in the west, casting longer and warmer light across the landscape. I had pulled off the road at one of the paved turnouts and took this shot. It was a beautiful day to take photos." See more of his photos at instagram.com/maxvyrion.Photo: Matthew WolterSunset stun: That moment when you walk outside and have this view. Chirag A. Patel of Phoenix shared his view from north Phoenix.Photo: Chirag A. PatelAwww, someone needs a hug! Don Lawrence of San Tan Valley was exploring Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument when he ran across this ocotillo in a prickly embrace. See more of his photos at instagram.com/donlawrencephotography.Photo: Don LawrenceCraig Haraga of Flagstaff works at Grand Canyon National Park, so, he says, when he saw the traffic backed up he thought elk might be nearby. "The elk then crossed right in front of my car!" he writes. "I lived in the park for awhile so I've seen plenty of big elk, but I never get tired of seeing them." See more of his photos at instagram.com/craig86004.Photo: Craig Haraga"This cactus started morphing into this strange creature during the past year. I couldn't resist taking a photo of it," writes Helen O'Boyle of Sun City Festival. She spotted "nature doing its thing" west of Surprise along the Sun Valley Parkway.Photo: Helen O'BoyleA photo-worthy moment: The full moon rising over Sunset Crater near Flagstaff. Andrei Stoica of Chandler tagged his photo on Instagram "#supersized." See more of his photos at instagram.com/astoica.Photo: Andrei StoicaSamuel Young of Apache Junction says he heads up the Flatiron a couple of times a week, but hadn't yet seen a storm roll in over metro Phoenix until this moment came. "I took a bunch of pics and just overall in awe," he says. See more of his photos at instagram.com/superstitionsam.Photo: Samuel Young"Horny toad showing some love," writes Giddi Oteo of Gilbert. She posed with the tiny horned lizard for her husband, Jace Carmichael. See more of her photos at instagram.com/mountainorchid.Photo: Jace CarmichaelZoom, zoom! Stacy Hamilton of Scottsdale caught this javelina in a hurry in north Scottsdale. See more of her photos at instagram.com/stacy1599.Photo: Stacy HamiltonAlong the dirt roads of Scottsdale, Kevin Spatt of Scottsdale found "some magic out here, an oasis." He says all kinds of animals come to this spot to find water during the monsoon season. "This place is magic," he says, "And this place is temporary, which makes it even more special. The water has now receded to a point where I won't go back again until the rains come." See more of his photos at instagram.com/desert_wild.Photo: Kevin SpattBrent Brooks of Phoenix may owe this shot to his wife. He says they were in downtown Phoenix together when she remarked on the beauty of the clouds. "When I looked up to take in the clouds, I saw the reflection of the sky in the windows of CityScape and knew I had to get a photo," he says. See more of his photos at instagram.com/brentbrooks.Photo: Brent BrooksMike Sanchez of Scottsdale pulled an all-nighter to get this image of the Milky Way over Kofa National Wildlife Refuge near Yuma. He says the yellow glow is the light pollution from Yuma. He adds, "It was an incredible experience to be in such a great location under such a brilliant night sky. I went out there specifically to take night photos. And I was rewarded in spades." See more of his photos at instagram.com/the_sanchz.Photo: Mike SanchezWatson Lake, near Prescott, is famous for the boulders of the Granite Dells. Cassell Archinuk of Chandler took a road trip from Chandler just to see it: "(I'd) heard that Watson Lake was quite unique, have never been and wanted to see for myself. ... Watson Lake didn't disappoint. I really loved it there! Can't wait to go back." See more of her photos at instagram.com/cassyarch28.Photo: Cassell ArchinukA giraffe at the zoo playing peekaboo? Ashley Bogdan of Tucson says the thought made her smile as she took this photo at Tucson's Reid Park Zoo. See more of her photos at instagram.com/silverskyrose.Photo: Ashley BogdanCamp the cattle dog is ready for a day on the Salt River. Adam Hammer of Gilbert tagged his shot, "#mansbestfriend." He adds that Camp loves the float trip, "catching some rays, meeting people and swimming to his heart’s content." See more of his photos at instagram.com/el_leche_malo.Photo: Adam HammerSedona makes a scenic backdrop for Bill Cantey's wireless selfie. See more of Phoenix resident's photos at BillCanteyPhotography.com.Photo: Bill CanteyKyle Maze loves to golf, but he had to put the clubs down for a photo of this sunset at the Papago Golf Course in Phoenix. See more of his photos at instagram.com/cartbarnguys.Photo: Kyle Maze"Custom manicure," Jodi Helmer says with a smile. The San Tan Valley resident does home decor and makeovers with her company, The Salvage Co., based in Superior. See more of her photos at instagram.com/the_salvage_co.Photo: Jodi Helmer"A girl and her puppy," writes Kendra Riley of Phoenix about her daughter Eva and her "puppy brother" Sherlock. She says the pair has been attached at the hip since Eva was born, so she thought it would be fun to have him in some of her 2-month photos. "They were both originally lying on their backs next to each other when Sherlock turned over to give her kisses. He gets a smile out of her every now and then," she says. See more of her photos at instagram.com/mrskendrariley.Photo: Kendra RileyArizona sunsets don't have to get all the love. Kristi Matash LaBrecque of Scottsdale witnessed striking sunrise rays over the McDowell Mountains.Photo: Kristi Matash LaBrecqueThere's a new mural in downtown Phoenix. Sara Evans of Phoenix says, "I was excited when I found out that Tyson Krank would be painting a mural on a building on my daily commute. I stopped and bothered him nearly every day until it was finished." Find the mural off Fillmore Street and Fifth Avenue, and look for Krank's work on his Instagram at @t_krank. See more from Evans at instagram.com/srndpt.Photo: Sara EvansIt was purple mountains' majesty in person when Alpen Patel of Phoenix made this photo of the Three Sisters in the Superstition Mountains. An avid hiker, he says, "usually all the photos I capture, such as this one, are during hikes here in Arizona!" See more of his photos at instagram.com/alpenpatelmd.Photo: Alpen PatelAmanda Schwartzkopf of Glendale caught this cotton-candy pink sunset just outside her door. In other parts of metro Phoenix, a storm was about to sweep through, leaving thousands without power and causing minor flooding.Photo: Amanda Schwartzkopf"This adult male Anna's hummingbird is sporting quite an impressive red spot on his neck," writes Chad Fleming. He spotted the good-looking fellow on the back patio of his Scottsdale home. See more of his photos at instagram.com/chirpy72.Photo: Chad FlemingFor Arizona's birthday, Kristin Tovar of Tucson designed an interactive mural that invites people to share why they love living in Arizona. She says, since then, she's been invited to bring the mural into other spaces. "A group called Serve Tucson helped build four more murals that went up in elementary schools on August 20 to celebrate Tucson's birthday, and this photo is from one of the schools we visited," she writes. She also says she hopes to bring the project to Phoenix eventually. See more of her photos at instagram.com/whyilovewhereilive and read some responses to the question posed by the mural at http://azc.cc/1PGbQaq.Photo: Kristin TovarEverything is golden after a little Arizona rain. Melissa Edwards of Gilbert was at Fool Hollow Lake near Show Low watching the sunset when a storm moved in. "There was a burst of rain coming down in the far background but I noticed the flowers were glowing from the fiery sunset," she writes. See more of her photos at instagram.com/azdesertgirl98.Photo: Melissa EdwardsStacy Hamilton of Scottsdale says she was just doing yoga at home with the door open when she looked up and this bobcat cub was right outside her room and watching her. "Had it ventured in, that would have made a better story!" See more of her photos at instagram.com/stacy1599.Photo: Stacy Hamilton"For about a month from late August to late September, the sunrise lines up perfectly for shots looking east on Portland (Street)," writes Mark Webster of Litchfield Park. He passes the historic neighborhood in Phoenix on his way downtown to work and, if time permits, always snaps a photo. See more of his photos at instagram.com/idle_hour.Photo: Mark Webster"July and August are so hot in southern Arizona, but the dramatic monsoon skies make up for the heat," says Joseph Cyr of Tucson. He caught this monsoon rainbow over the desert near Sabino Canyon while out for an evening run. "When scenes like this come up, I'm glad to have my iPhone with me," he writes. See more of his photos at instagram.com/allophile_.Photo: Joseph CyrFather and son, Rigo Febles and baby Max, were having fun playing dress-up in Tanque Verde, writes Max's mom Louise Canuto of Phoenix. "They are two silly peas in a pod," she says. See more of her photos at instagram.com/traveltheunbeatenpath.Photo: Louise CanutoLeah Joy Lindner of Phoenix says she's a fifth-generation Arizonan who grew up adventuring with her father and older brothers. On her first visit to Supai, she says she had to jump for joy for love of the place. "I had seen pictures, but never in my wildest dreams would I ever have thought that at the bottom of the Grand Canyon there would be travertine-filled aquamarine pools of heaven and a 300-foot waterfall," she writes. An April ruling that opened the door to uranium mining south of the Grand Canyon has her concerned for the future of Supai, since she says it will "always be near and dear to my heart." See more of her photos at instagram.com/leahjoylove.Photo: Shawn PahlEast of Florence by Box Canyon, rays of light at sunset caught the eye of Adam Baca of Florence.Photo: Adam BacaArtist Rebecca Kouchit made an Arizona outdoor picnic breakfast of watermelon and blueberries at her Tucson home and studio. She says it was "delightful." See more of her photos at instagram.com/art___by___rebecca.Photo: Rebecca KouchitIt was a bird's eye view for Ryan Anderson of Phoenix as he flew into Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport over Roosevelt Lake. He points out that Roosevelt Dam is in the lower left of his photo. See more of his photos at instagram.com/bad.at.parties.Photo: Ryan Anderson"Bobo loves to stop and watch the ducks swim," writes Rebecca Itzkowitz of Scottsdale. She and husband Rob — and Bobo, of course — were taking an evening walk around the Stonecreek Golf Club in Paradise Valley. See more of her photos at instagram.com/itzbecca0904.Photo: Rebecca Itzkowitz"(The photo) was actually taken ... when I left the state of Arizona and looked back for one last beautiful sunset," says Josh Wittig of the photo he shot near Willcox. Wittig was born and raised in Arizona, but was heading to New Orleans to pursue an opportunity, he said. See more of his photos at instagram.com/joshuawittig_.Photo: Josh WittigAndrea Blake of Tempe says she and Anthony Swann of Scottsdale were near Strawberry, searching for the Hanging Gardens Trailhead. Instead, they found this sunny, flower-filled field. See more of Blake's photos at instagram.com/purpleadventures and Swann's at instagram.com/swanndive.Photo: Anthony Swann"NASA stationed themselves here to test the first Mars rover just because it resembled the surface of Mars," says Ryan Goldtooth of Coalmine about the Moenave area where he took this photo of his nephews, Keir Tallman (left) and Emery Goldtooth. See more of his photos at instagram.com/g2th.pictures.Photo: Ryan GoldtoothWhile the Phoenix area was sweltering under record and near-record high temperatures, Hana the dog was walking in a riverbed in Tucson. Owner Yuko Smith of Tucson says she and Hana were on the Rillito River Trail when she spotted a "cool pattern of dried mud" and went back to get her camera to make this image. See more of her photos at instagram.com/yukoinsunshine.Photo: Yuko SmithJesse Perry of Phoenix has created a series of street art around downtown Phoenix just waiting to be discovered. He writes, "The idea is to have a playful relationship with the city and allows others to take part in fun discoveries on their adventures through the city streets. It's about making Phoenix a more whimsical place." He wants people to have the joy of discovery, so he won't be too specific on where to find the art. See more of his photos at instagram.com/mrdowntownphx.Photo: Jesse Perry"We spent the evening swimming in the river and watching the wild mustangs play in the water as the sun set," writes Brian Cahill of Tempe. He and friends were at the Lower Salt River Coon Bluff area, where he made this photo of Courtney Frieze of Gilbert. See more of his photos at instagram.com/pyro4lif.Photo: Brian CahillTwo rounds of storms smacked metro Phoenix on Aug. 11, early in the morning and again in the evening hours. Thousands were left without power both times. April Goldian of Mesa says, "Lightning highlighting the dust storm moving through tonight. Taken from out near the Superstitions."Photo: April Goldian"Summer night on the Salt River," writes Steph Belt of Gilbert. See more of her photos at instagram.com/adventuresteph.Photo: Steph BeltWhat do you see when you look into the depths? Photographer Bryan A Castillo of Tucson says that he's gotten comments that this closeup photo of his wife's eye resembles the top of a volcano or a flower. See more of his photos at instagram.com/bryanadamc.Photo: Bryan A CastilloKyle Rowe of Scottsdale found this sunny field of flowers in Williams. He went in search of a spot to catch the sunset, settled on White Horse Lake, and stumbled across this field along the way. He says, "The scene was incredible and I had to stop!" See more of his photos at instagram.com/k_rowejo21.Photo: Kyle RoweLake Mead is situated in a land of contrasts, a boating mecca at the intersection of three of North America's four deserts. Juan Uriel Valdez of Oklahoma City snapped this image of a boat dwarfed by the cliffs forming the reservoir while on a road trip from Oklahoma to California. See more of his photos at instagram.com/valdezj83.Photo: Juan Uriel ValdezOne of these things is not like the other! DeeDee Purcell of Phoenix says she made a special road trip to Miami, Ariz., to seek out the feline street art and brought her dog, Fritz, along. See more of her photos at instagram.com/44purcell.Photo: DeeDee PurcellRays of light stream over the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Bill Cantey of Phoenix was there to capture the sight. See more of his photos at BillCanteyPhotography.com.Photo: Bill CanteyThe day started out sunny, but a storm moved in on Scott Anau of Phoenix and his friends as they were exploring an area near Camp Verde known as The Bullpen. "We never did see any rain," he says. See more of his photos at instagram.com/photo_adventures.Photo: Scott AnauLazar Zarupski of Phoenix caught this stunning sunset turning a Phoenix canal into a river of fire. See more of his photos at instagram.com/malenikakani.Photo: Lazar ZarupskiA late July monsoon storm not only brought needed rain, but also a fantastic photo opportunity. Jamie Collins captured this lightning at the Elvis Memorial Chapel on the grounds of the Superstition Mountain Museum near Apache Junction. See more of her photos at instagram.com/azroadtrippin.Photo: Jamie CollinsBryan Wood of Tolleson caught this magical moment with the Salt River horses while kayaking. He writes: "I put in at Red Mountain, down by the dam, and paddled up about a mile from there and saw the first group of about 12 and after that saw another group of four." See more of his photos at instagram.com/aklove.Photo: Bryan WoodKamiko Mannie of Ahwatukee turned to her GoPro "to capture in one frame the peace and fullness that a glimpse of sunrise could bring to my soul." She was born and raised in Page, and being back there for a visit was a blessing, she says. See more of her photos at instagram.com/__kamiko__.Photo: Kamiko MannieClayton Puckett of Chandler titles his photo, "Sunset sip." He says he was at work on the Tohono O'odham reservation near the village of Pisinimo when three horses came to get a drink. See more of his photos at instagram.com/clayton__3.Photo: Clayton PuckettSeen anything like this before? It's a popular photo technique called "spinning steel" that lets photographers paint with light. Adam Crocker of Mesa spins for Josh Martin, also of Mesa, on one of the Apache Trail bridges. See more of Martin's photos at instagram.com/campcoolout.Photo: Josh MartinValaryee Huffman of Tucson and her boyfriend headed up Mount Lemmon to watch the sunset at Windy Vista. She says there were dozens of others walking around, waiting for sunset, but "I was mostly interested in the road, I loved the way it curved and how tiny the cars were." She dedicates this photo to "someone important to me," her boyfriend's father Kent Toothman, who recently passed away. See more of her photos at instagram.com/walkersprawncocktail.Photo: Valaryee Huffman"I call these sun glares 'God's glory' so I always enjoy the moment when it happens," writes Michelle Annette-Granillo of Vail. She says she saw this and just had to stop to take a photo. See more of her photos at instagram.com/mishelleannette.Photo: Michelle Annette-GranilloMichael Baca of Florence captured this stellar shot of the Milky Way southeast of Florence. See more of his photos at facebook.com/casadebacastudios.Photo:If your friends don't believe you when you talk about Arizona's amazing monsoon, just show them this. Mike Goe of Tempe says: "I was strolling across another bridge and saw the marvelous clouds billowing up in the distance" over Tempe Town Lake. See more of his photos at instagram.com/maxfraizer.Photo: Mike GoeArizona is full of scenery that makes you look twice. David Day of Bisbee encountered this "pogo-stick cow" between Bisbee and Douglas. He says,"I get a kick out of seeing it every time I drive by." See more of his photos at instagram.com/bisbeedave.Photo: David DayThe world-famous Antelope Canyon attracts photographers from all over, looking for that perfect shot. Johny Chamieh of Toronto, Canada, was on his second visit to Arizona when he made this stop at Upper Antelope Canyon. He says, "As we entered at 11 o'clock in the morning, it so happened to be the best time to see angelic light beams penetrating through." See more of his photos at instagram.com/johnychamieh.Photo: Johny ChamiehMonument Valley doubled in wonder for Matt Wing of Tulsa, Okla., after a little rain. Wing and his girlfriend were exploring on a road trip: "Looking back on the photos, the place still looks unreal. It's really quite amazing," he said. See more of his photos at instagram.com/mrwing13.Photo: Matt WingAwwww, so cute! John Sypniewski of Tempe caught this antelope squirrel pausing for a snack near the grounds of the Mission San Xavier del Bac south of Tucson. See more of his photos at instagram.com/johnphx.Photo: John SypniewskiThe dramatic White House Ruins are among the notable sites in Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Kelsey McHugh of Flagstaff shares her view of the former Anasazi dwelling.Photo: Kelsey McHughThe world-famous view from Desert View Watchtower at Grand Canyon National Park becomes even more magnificent as a storm moves in. Laura Anderson of Phoenix took this photo as she was showing her mother the canyon for the first time: "Instead of the typically amazing sunset to the west, we were able to watch this surprise storm roll in from the east." See more of her photos at instagram.com/lbanders.Photo: Laura Anderson"I've never seen anyone else on that rock ... and I've hiked the Peralta Trail at least 30 times," says Patrick Bulger of Mesa. The trail, located near Gold Canyon, is on the edge of the Superstition Wilderness, which holds nearly 160,000 acres of prime hiking territory. See more of his photos at instagram.com/ny_2_az.Photo: Patrick BulgerMisters make Arizona summers bearable, but when caught by sunlight, also make photos magical. Thom Barbour of Scottsdale was working at his booth, The Proper Beast Charcuterie, at the Downtown Phoenix Public Market when a passing skateboarder created a photo-worthy moment. See more of his photos at instagram.com/thombarbour.Photo: Thom BarbourIn Arizona, horses occasionally go for a dip. Suzanne Davis of Scottsdale explains, "During the hot summer days, several friends and members from the Cave Creek saddle club meet at Lake Pleasant to let the horses frolic in the water. ... . They really enjoy it and it's a fun way for us to meet up and enjoy our friendships." The smiley fellow pictured is named Dan and belongs to Lucy Soyster.Photo: Suzanne DavisAvid trail runner Sion Lupowitz of Tucson had some competition for trail space while heading into Bear Canyon. He says, "I love seeing tortoises because I feel like they bring good luck!" He adds that he and some running friends keep a critter count during their ventures, and "this was my first one of the year." See more of his photos at instagram.com/sirunben.Photo: Sion LupowitzStrong monsoon thunderstorms that moved through the East Valley during the evening commute produced a microburst with wind speeds up to 60 mph, the National Weather Service confirmed. Geoff Brauch of Mesa photographed this rain shaft looking west from Power Road. See more of his photos at instagram.com/gb5766.Geoff BrauchChris Walsh of Phoenix says he and friend Cheryl Dent of Scottsdale "stopped by Canyon Lake just to go swimming and it ended up turning into a photoshoot at sunset." Here's a watery truth: Only two of Arizona's lakes are natural: Stoneman Lake and Mormon Lake. See more of his photos at instagram.com/azlandscapesandnatureshots.Photo: Chris Walsh"The combination of old mining equipment and leading lines of the train tracks drew me to this composition," writes Gerry Groeber about this photo he made at the Goldfield ghost town in the Superstition Mountains. See more of his photos at gerrygroeber.com.Photo: Gerry GroeberDonna Drake of Wickenburg says she was actually in the middle of taking a photo of a rabbit in her yard when she looked up and spotted these birds in the ocotillo branches. Caption contest winner Neal Van Den Langenberg titled it: "Top secret executive branch meeting." See more of Drake's photos at instagram.com/azdawna.Photo: Donna DrakeCats may have nine lives, but this orange feline isn't casting two shadows. Jeannine McChesney of Chandler says Oliver and his buddy Max "always seem to find yin and yang positions." See more of her photos at instagram.com/j9mcc.Photo: Jeannine McChesney"Will forever be enchanted by the beauty of this place," writes Celeste Ruiz of San Luis. She snapped this image in Antelope Canyon near Page. See more of her photos at instagram.com/celester_.Photo: Celeste RuizEven the Arizona sky seems to have gotten excited for "Shark Week" on the Discovery Channel. Mike Devine of Mesa caught this "jawsome" cloud formation in the West Valley near the Loop 303. See more of his photos at instagram.com/hikeraz.Photo: Mike Devine"Such a beautiful canyon on the Navajo Reservation called Coal Mine Canyon," writes Rachelle Hardy of Tuba City. She paused for the view while friend Ryan Goldtooth snapped a photo. See more of her photos at instagram.com/made4_az.Photo: Rachelle Hardy And Ryan GoldtoothEdmundo Mendez Jr. of Chandler settled in near Tempe Center for the Arts to watch the annual Independence Day fireworks over Tempe Town Lake with friends. It didn't disappoint this photography enthusiast. See more of his photos at instagram.com/mundojr.Photo: Edmundo Mendez Jr.It's "bottoms up" for this pair of ducks, in a photo by Darrell Marquette of Phoenix. See more of his photos at instagram.com/darrell_marquette.Photo: Darrell Marquette"Might have been a little too close tonight," says Jason Ball of Scottsdale. He took this electrifying photo in the parking lot at Coronado High School in Scottsdale. See more of his photos at instagram.com/jason_ball.Photo: Jason BallHazel is the coolest cat in Jerome, thanks to a convenient floor fan. Owner Priscilla Clump of Jerome says, "It's a bit cooler than Phoenix but still hot, as Hazel demonstrates!" See more of her photos at instagram.com/priscilla_az.Photo: Priscilla ClumpPermits are required, but hikers who explore Cibecue Canyon on the White Mountain Apache Reservation are rewarded with waterfalls. A guide is needed to continue to the upper falls. Ben Whipple of Mesa offers a glimpse into what awaits. See more of his photos at instagram.com/tightwhip4.Photo: Ben WhippleMeteorologist Cory Mottice of Flagstaff was tracking this storm from Sedona. He had this vantage point from near the airport, looking north. See more of his photos at instagram.com/_expl0rer_.Photo: Cory MotticeThe monsoon is here, and it's bringing quite the show. Abbee Day of Surprise set up to photograph the lightning storm from Surprise City Hall over a 5-minute period. See more of her photos at instagram.com/abbee_day.Photo: Abbee DayThe sunset lit up a monsoon storm so beautifully that Peter Michelsen of Tempe "had to stop a take a pic." He was on his way to Tucson and saw the striking scene in his rearview mirror.Photo: Peter MichelsenWhen this storm broke over downtown Phoenix, Lennis Wayne of Phoenix says it was "a fun night" trying to make some photos of the lightning. See more of his photos at instagram.com/lenniswayne.Photo: Lennis WayneThe clouds parted for Kathleen Wallace of Mesa as she was photographing the Superstition Mountains. See more of her photos at instagram.com/goldentrailz.Photo: Kathleen WallaceThese Monument Valley petroglyphs can be seen only with a guide. Stacy Lankford of Scottsdale says it's "well worth the price for the tour." He adds that these particular petroglyphs were photographed by Ansel Adams in 1958. See more of his photos at instagram.com/lankford.Photo: Stacy LankfordAshley Carlson of Flagstaff captured this dreamy view of Lake Mary while showing a friend how to photograph stars and the Milky Way. See more of her photos at instagram.com/thealcstudio.Photo: Ashley CarlsonIt was August last Arizona monsoon, and Andrew Pielage of Phoenix says finally the conditions were right: "A violent storm covering the entire state of Arizona was only hours away." He drove to the canyon's South Rim and waited out the storm. As it cleared, the storm clouds revealed glimpses of the canyon. He says, "I stood in awe at the beauty of these magical little peeks into the Grand Canyon happening right in front of me. I photographed for a few hours as with each little window was a brand new shot." See more of his photos at instagram.com/apielage.Photo: Andrew PielageLake Pleasant appeared "insanely beautiful" to Becky Wenger of Scottsdale as the clouds moved through.Photo: Becky WengerThe Guzman sisters of Phoenix, Arianna (left), 5, and Allaynah, 9, ran around to enjoy some rare June rain on their first week of summer break. Their father, David Guzman, who took this photo, says: "We told them they could get as wet as they want, like we did when we were children." See more of his photos at instagram.com/DG.AZ.Photo: David Guzman"I went looking for a gorgeous sunset and the beautiful Arizona sky didn't let me down," writes Robert Cline of San Manuel of his photo near Oracle.Photo: Robert ClineLeo Bounds of Phoenix took his camera to Phoenix's Papago Park "specifically to catch the sunrise through Hole in the Rock." When he turned around, the sun lighting the trees created this clear reflection in the water. See more of his photos at instagram.com/leo.bounds.Photo: Leo BoundsAllison Mayes of Scottsdale watched this owl family's progress for weeks in the Scottsdale desert. She writes: "I saw a momma owl sitting in a nest in a saguaro. I went back the next week and saw momma with 2 owlets, the following week with yet a third owlet. I kept going back to see their progress until they fledged." See more of her photos at instagram.com/amayesingphotos.Photo: Allison Mayes"It was such a gorgeous evening, perfect time for a group picture with my friends," says Rob Chowdhury of his Papago Park outing. See more of his photos at instagram.com/ro2bie_c.Photo: Rob ChowdhuryCory Tallman (right) of San Tan Valley explored "The Jug" of Upper Salome Canyon, north of Roosevelt Lake, with Tabby Williams (left) and Andrew Gomez, both of San Tan Valley. Tallman says: "The canyon is full of hidden pools, and includes one waterfall that must either be rappelled, or braver hikers often jump." See more of his photos at instagram.com/drunkenscallywag.Photo: Cory TallmanThe sunset captivated Ramy Sidarous of Scottsdale from the summit of the Pinnacle Peak trail, but, he says, "it was also really cool to see another Phoenix landmark, Camelback Mountain, way out in the horizon." See more of his photos at instagram.com/ramysidarous.Photo: Ramy SidarousDanny Upshaw of Phoenix framed this image of his friend Nate Cook, also of Phoenix, while the two were exploring near the Casa Grande Domes, structures once intended to be part of an electronics assembly plant. The plant never opened. Over time, rumors flew that the Domes were haunted or the abode of space aliens. Upshaw says that he and Cook "just explored and searched for unique shapes and lighting." See more of his photos at instagram.com/unheard_harmony.Photo: Danny UpshawLittle Michael Pinckard's second birthday in Ahwatukee wouldn't be the same without his best friend, Chloe, at his side. His godfather, Collin Reed, captured this moment between the pair, adding, "They are best friends and Chloe always knows where to find scraps since their relationship has formed." See more of his photos at instagram.com/collin_reed.Photo: Collin ReedCindy Dawson spotted this surprise slithery visitor on her windowsill at her longtime Scottsdale home. She says the snake was climbing above a ground squirrel's hole, just hanging around waiting for a potential meal. Her friend Beverly Moore shared the photo on her Instagram at instagram.com/mimsbeverly.Photo: Cindy DawsonJustin Dodson of Gilbert says he's a patient guy who "loooves to wait on the light changing on the mountains at sunset or sunrise." He made this image while waiting for a sunset in Sedona. See more of his photos at instagram.com/the_power_of_failing.Photo: Justin DodsonRiley Heywood of Chandler flips into what he calls the "Lake Powell Toilet." He explains: "The bowl is an arch which connects with the lake. When the water level is low enough, you can squeeze a boat into it." See more of his photos at instagram.com/lakepowelldroner.Photo: Riley HeywoodRay Cleveland of Tucson found this "family swim" at Rose Canyon Lake in the Santa Catalina Mountains near Mount Lemmon. See more of his photos at instagram.com/raycleveland.Photo: Ray ClevelandReed Welsh, 15, of Tucson heads up Goosehead on Mount Lemmon near Tucson. Todd Bukowski of Tucson explains that Reed is with the Rocks and Ropes Climbing Team, who "are some of the best rock climbers in the state and compete with other youth teams across the southwest U.S. and some even compete at the national level." See more of his photos at instagram.com/tc.bukowski.Photo: Todd BukowskiLook what got caught on camera near Payson: A black bear cub. Tom Pierre of Scottsdale explains that the photo was taken with a trail camera in the Tonto National Forest: "We have two trail cameras back in the forest that trigger on motion. Once triggered, they take a series of shots so attached is the whole series of the cub going up and down the tree (mom was standing right next to the tree where the camera was — we know that from the other frames)." See more of his photos at facebook.com/PaysonDogHouse.Photo: Tom Pierre"We hiked into Havasupai Falls – what an adventure," writes Karina Yandell of Phoenix. She says she and her husband took their daughter and five other college-bound girls the day after their high-school graduation. See more of her photos at instagram.com/karinayandell.Photo: Karina YandellRocki Adams of Peoria found what she calls a "kissie face cactus" while on a walk with her husband at the Rio Salado Restoration Habitat Area in Phoenix. See more of her photos at instagram.com/rockiadams.Photo: Rocki AdamsThe Valley's rain in early June wasn't just unusual, it was historic. The .03 inches of rain recorded at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was the first measurable rain ever registered on June 5, according to National Weather Service records. Stephanie Lough of Scottsdale captured this rainbow in Scottsdale near Hayden and Chaparral roads the day before. See more of her photos at instagram.com/stephlough.Photo: Stephanie LoughA rare June rainstorm brought a double rainbow to the metro Phoenix area. Malena Manuel of Scottsdale made this image in Scottsdale. See more of her photos at instagram.com/malena_jm.Photo: Malena ManuelCarrie Dahl of Scottsdale spotted these javelina young in her yard. According to the National Park Service, the babies weigh about a pound at birth. Another interesting fact: They are most commonly twins. See more of her photos at instagram.com/cadahl25.Photo: Carrie DahlThe first full moon in June is called the "strawberry moon." Meghan Davidson of Phoenix says she was "floored at how amazingly beautiful the moon was" and rushed home to get her telescope to shoot photos. See more of her photos at instagram.com/phoenixflame34.Photo: Meghan DavidsonA hike on the Tom's Thumb trail in the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve was cause to jump for joy. Rebeca Rodriguez of Paradise Valley caught the moment. See more of her photos at instagram.com/8tskid.Photo: Rebeca Rodriguez"Havasupai is definitely the most beautiful place I have ever been," writes Brian Cahill of Tempe. He and a group of friends made the hike down Havasu Canyon on the Havasupai reservation. He says he made this photo near Navajo Falls on the hike out. See more of his photos at instagram.com/pyro4lif.Photo: Brian CahillLook at these super-adorable visitors! The baby bobcats were exploring in Julie Saxe's Scottsdale back yard. If you look closely, you may spot a watchful parent bobcat peering out from behind the couch. Saxe writes: "I think the mama bobcat has had her babies right next to our home for several years." See more of her photos at instagram.com/azgirll.Photo: Julie SaxeLaurie Jones of Scottsdale says that her children, 6-year-old Caroline and 4-year-old George, "kept asking on our trip if we were 'still in Arizona' since the tall trees and cold weather didn't feel like Scottsdale." The family was in Pine/Strawberry for the long holiday weekend around Memorial Day. See more of her photos at instagram.com/crzy4az.Photo: Laurie JonesBeauty can be found in unexpected places. Montserrat Velazquez-Escudero of Surprise photographed this striking mesquite tree in a parking lot in Peoria: "I was intrigued by the crazy curves of the mesquite and wanted to see if I could bring it out thru the lens." See more photos at instagram.com/twinklletoe.Photo: Montserrat Velazquez-EscuderoJust a short hike will take you to this view of Horseshoe Bend near Page. Sysouvane Keonammavong of Chandler and his daughter Mylinh were taking it in on an "exploring birthday weekend" trip to northern Arizona for Mylinh's special day. See more photos at instagram.com/skeonamm.Photo: Sysouvane KeonammavongMother Nature is quite the color coordinator: Notice how this feathered diner matches its dinner. Dawn Zappone-Dodge of Portal was birdwatching in her yard and caught this on camera. See more of her photos at instagram.com/dzip24.Photo: Dawn Zappone-DodgeTyler J. Bolken of Phoenix caught Camelback Mountain casting its shadow on metro Phoenix. See more of his photos at instagram.com/bolksblottr.Photo: Tyler J. BolkenWhat a good dad! Yep, that's a male quail watching over this nest. Lori A. Johnson of Phoenix spotted him at the Desert Botanical Garden. See more of her photos at instagram.com/lajphotos.Photo: Lori A. JohnsonLook twice: Daniel Robles of Phoenix caught the Mexican "charro" tradition in motion at Phoenix's Rancho Ochoa with this double exposure. He writes that "the kid (was) doing tricks with the rope like a pro."Photo: Daniel RoblesJonathan Esparza of Buckeye perches on the very edge of the Mogollon Rim near Payson. He and a buddy, Eric Ochoa, were taking a trip out of town for the day. See more of his photos at instagram.com/johnny_bravophx.Photo: Jonathan EsparzaIt was time for a hike, and this pack of furry friends was raring to go. Ashley Barinka of Gilbert and friend Elizabeth Leon brought (from front) Fiona, Pepperlily, Izak, Annie and Jake to romp at Lost Dutchman State Park. See more of her photos at instagram.com/izak_the_aussie.Photo: Ashley BarinkaArizona State University student Nathaniel Kirby marks a Grand Canyon moment in his sketchbook as Tony Swann of Scottsdale does the same with his camera. The pair were hiking the Thunder River Trail. See more of Swann's photo at instagram.com/swanndive.Photo: Tony SwannJason Blaauw of Pine made a starry selfie in the Superstition Mountains near Peralta Trail. See more of his photos at instagram.com/arizonadreamin.Photo: Jason BlaauwEven the birds love a good Arizona sunset. Duane Blackburn of Lake Havasu City says that this heron, known as "Fred," is frequently seen at Mesquite Bay in Lake Havasu City. See more of his photos at instagram.com/itsaduanelife.Photo: Duane BlackburnKyle Benne of Scottsdale was taking photos from the top of a parking garage on the University of Arizona campus, when, he writes, "the plane happened to fly in front of the clouds." He says it's a C-130 Hercules. See more of his photos at instagram.com/kbenne21.Photo: Kyle BenneStunning Arizona skies appear no less stunning in black and white. Saija Lehtonen of Chandler captured this cloud-streaked sky in Tucson. See more photos at instagram.com/photographybysaija.Photo: Saija Lehtonen"I had seen photos of it on HikeArizona.com and it just looked like a great place to visit — and it sure was!" says Todd Halvorsen of Tempe about his visit to Coal Mine Canyon on the Navajo Reservation. See more of his photos at instagram.com/azchumley.Photo: Todd HalvorsenIt may look like Tornado Alley, but Aaron Kluth of San Tan Valley captured this storm from his back yard. He writes: "It was 4:52 p.m. and the sky was saying it looked more like midnight as a large storm moved off." See more of his photos at instagram.com/aaronkluth.Photo: Aaron KluthMeet Thuggie. He's not as innocent as he may seem. Owner Trisha Young of Gilbert says, "Over the years we have moved 11 times in five states and he kept hunting/eating/bringing in the house skinks, lizards, rats, morning doves, moles and mice with a particular fondness for pigeons." Now, he's an indoor cat. See more of her photos at instagram.com/trishad623.Photo: Trisha YoungJacob Smith made this image of his sister Kiersten and her fiance, Jeremy Rottmann, swinging creekside. The Gilbert couple was hanging out during their camping trip to Fossil Creek. See more of Jacob Smith's photos at instagram.com/jacobsmithaz and Kiersten Smith's at instagram.com/kierstenrae49.Photo: Kiersten Smith And Jacob Smith"One of the most heavenly things I've ever seen," says Zach Papuga of Tempe about the view he got as he was driving down the winding dirt road to the Four Peaks trailhead when the clouds parted above the Salt River Canyon and Roosevelt Lake. See more of his photos at instagram.com/zp_photo.Photo: Zach Papuga"The mixture of the lighting, clouds, reflections, and construction/buildings brings a ton of colors and textures into the shot." writes Keith Robinson of Scottsdale about what inspired him to make this sunset image of Tempe Town Lake after a storm. See more of his photos at instagram.com/randomazimages.Photo: Keith RobinsonThe extraordinary blooms of the Echinopsis cactus are showstoppers. The flowers can be 5-6 inches in diameter — but enjoy them while they last, because it's usually only a day. Cristin Clark of Scottsdale writes that this one had 15 blooms that all opened around the same time. See more of her photos at instagram.com/cristinclark62.Photo: Cristin ClarkIt's an Arizona traffic jam! Joelle Martin of Chandler ran into a mule train while hiking the Grand Canyon's South Kaibab Trail with her father. She writes that they spent four days exploring the canyon: "It was one of the best experiences of my life." See more of her photos at instagram.com/joellemartin_.Photo: Joelle Martin"Oh, glorious Sedona." That was the caption on this photo of a bobcat taken by Jean-Christophe Buillet. He ran across the "little beauty" off Soldier Pass Trail in Sedona. See more of his photos at instagram.com/asunsetchateau .Photo: Jean-Christophe BuilletThe full moon and a city view greeted Veronica Hernandez of Phoenix on her hike to the top of North Mountain in Phoenix. See more of her photos at instagram.com/vlhernandez.Photo: Veronica HernandezA May storm crackles over Sedona in this striking moment captured by Justin Dodson. See more of his photos at instagram.com/the_power_of_failing.Photo: Justin DodsonThe storm clouds parted long enough for Amy Brown of Laveen to capture the sunset from her property. Rain fell in the West Valley and the East Valley, but skipped most of Phoenix. See more of her photos at instagram.com/amygbrown.Photo: Amy BrownOh, yes, Arizona has waterfalls. Stuart Selden of Phoenix snapped Tony Swann of Scottsdale by these falls where the Salt River crosses U.S. 60 between Globe and Show Low. See more of his photos at instagram.com/az_climber.Photo: Stuart Selden"Just as the sun was setting below the horizon, the clouds began to light up, and they provided a rich array of colors from bright yellow and orange near the horizon to a dark blue and purple further up," says Joseph Plotz of Chandler. The "amazing weather" drew him outdoors to make some photographs; he framed this one in Gold Canyon near the foot of the Superstition Mountains. See more of his photos at instagram.com/jplotzster.Photo: Joseph PlotzThis is no backyard pool. Leah Joy Lindner took a splash in one of Arizona's natural swimming holes: Fossil Creek in the Coconino National Forest. Springs on the Mogollon Rim feed the creek, one of only two national Wild & Scenic rivers in Arizona. It's a popular spot, so if you want to take a dip, head there early. See more of her photos at instagram.com/leahjoylove.Photo: Leah Joy LindnerBack in 1928, the 16-story Westward Ho was the tallest building in Phoenix. Today, the 40-floor Chase Tower in downtown Phoenix takes the prize. The "colors and contrast" of the older landmark caught the eye of photographer Tyler J. Bolken of Phoenix. See more of his photos at instagram.com/bolksblottr.Photo: Tyler J. BolkenA 90-second exposure created this dreamy scene at Lake Pleasant for photographer Kristina Reese. See more of her photos at instagram.com/3reesespieces.Photo: Kristina ReeseMaribeth Brady of Phoenix writes that she was "very lucky to see the wild horses at Coon Bluff" on the Lower Salt River. She saw 10 or more horses and "had fun taking many photos." See more of her photos at instagram.com/mbbaz.Photo: Maribeth BradyNathaniel Cook of Phoenix writes that he "had to get some shots of its awesome spiral staircase" on the Arizona State University campus in Tempe. He calls it "whirlpool cool." See more of his photos at instagram.com/natecook_.Photo: Nathaniel CookSaguaros edged by sunlight at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument made a striking image for Stewart M. Green of Colorado Springs, Colo. He writes: "I was camping for a week at the monument's primitive campground in Alamo Canyon, exploring the park and hiking up its many rugged peaks." See more of his photos at instagram.com/stewartmgreen.Photo: Stewart M. GreenA little creative camera work with a double exposure, and Josh Stroke of Tempe makes it appear as if Tempe's Hayden Flour Mill has a colorful new paint job. See more of his photos at instagram.com/heyooooophotos.Photo: Josh StrokeThe clouds parted just long enough for Jeff Farrell of Tempe to capture some sun rays peeking through at South Mountain in Phoenix. See more of his photos at instagram.com/jeff.farrell.Photo: Jeff Farrell"Love my job," writes Matthew Nicholson of Phoenix. Taking this photo in north Phoenix was all part of a day's work at Float Balloon Tours. See more of his photos at instagram.com/infiniteperceptions.Photo: Matthew NicholsonThat is one enormous ball of bees. Brittany McLeod of Dewey walked into her backyard and saw this swarm. She says, "Thank goodness for my 300mm zoom lens." See more of her photos at instagram.com/KraftyBuns.Photo: Brittany McLeodBeatriz Hernandez framed this bright red cactus blossom against the bright blue Arizona sky.Photo: Beatriz HernandezHeart-shaped sculptures on Tucson's Fourth Avenue invite passersby to participate in the love-locks tradition that has taken off worldwide. Ray Cleveland of Tucson noticed them and snapped this photo. See more of his photos at instagram.com/raycleveland.Photo: Ray ClevelandIt's not easy to reach this spot on the Little Colorado River. Dana John Wentzel of Tempe says he had to rappel Big Canyon to get here. He adds, "More often than not, the Little Colorado River is muddy. However, when it hasn't rained in awhile, the travertine in the water makes it a milky teal color." See more of his photos at instagram.com/danajwentzel.Photo: Dana John WentzelWa:k Pow Wow | Everyone is welcome to attend the 35th Annual Wa:k Pow Wow in Tucson. The event features a wide array of Native American arts, crafts, delicious food and dancing. Dancing categories include hoop dancing, team dance, owl dance and many more. | Details: 10 a.m. gates open. Saturday, March 11 and Sunday, March 12. Behind the San Xavier Mission del Bac Church, 1950 W. San Xavier Road, Tucson. $7 for adults, $5 for kids, free for 6 and under. facebook.com/wakpowwow.Photo: Nancy Dimock"I have traveled all around hiking in Colorado, Utah and New Mexico, which are all known for incredible rainbows, and this one in Sedona blew them all out of the water," writes Becky Wenger of Scottsdale.Photo: Becky WengerKelly Gilling of Cave Creek got the stare-down from this bird perched in an ocotillo in her front yard. She says a friend identified it as a verdin. See more of her photos at instagram.com/spotinthesonoran.Photo: Kelly Gilling"Timing was everything finding this guy," writes Evan Dargen of Chandler. He was heading back to the trailhead on the Bluff Springs Trail in the Superstition Mountains when a Gila monster crossed not 10 feet away. "We watched each other for a minute until he decided he'd better head to the bushes to hide from me." See more of his photos at instagram.com/evanomd.Photo: Evan DargenSome photo editing and this image looks like the Arizona Coyotes' arena as Van Gogh could have painted it. The Coyotes-Ducks game at Gila River Arena in Glendale gave Jeffrey Lansing of Phoenix a reason to get creative. See more of his photos at instagram.com/purplemistie.Photo: Jeffrey LansingA hiker stands before the pattern and light on display at The Alcove at Coyote Buttes North in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Andrei Stoica of Chandler captured the moment. See more of his photos on his website, http://andrei.stoica.photo.Photo: Andrei StoicaOn the outskirts of Tucson, on a road called Redington Pass between the Catalina and Rincon mountains, the heavens opened up for Miguel Rubio of Tucson. He silhouetted a fellow photographer, Erik Lizarraras of Tucson, against the Milky Way. See more of his photos at instagram.com/migtwitz.Photo: Miguel RubioNicole Small of Scottsdale writes that this "gorgeous bloom" was part of her friend's haul from the farmers market. See more of her photos at instagram.com/nicoblossom.Photo: Nicole SmallTim Gleason of Chandler found a new angle on an old landmark: The Gilbert Water Tower. He writes he'd been intrigued by the tower after reading about its history, so found the right moment to go shoot it. See more of his photos at instagram.com/teegeefoto.Photo: Tim GleasonIn this six-minute exposure, Tyler Sichelski of Chandler captured Four Peaks' purple mountains' majesty from the Salt River. See more of his photos at instagram.com/tyskiphoto.Photo: Tyler SichelskiPhotographer John Ryan of Scottsdale made quite a catch: This great blue heron with a catch of its own. Ryan says he was "super excited" how the photo turned out. See more of his photos at instagram.com/johnryanphotos.Photo: John RyanRandy Metcalf of Tucson was quick with his cellphone camera when he spotted the intriguing silhouette of a man positioned next to a colorful mosaic at the Pima County Administration Building in downtown Tucson. See more of his photos at instagram.com/randymetcalf.Photo: Randy MetcalfIt's Easter and this cactus looks like it may be up to some bunny business. Tricia Leonhardt of Avondale shared her glimpse of the desert's Easter best. See more of her photos at instagram.com/Photo: Tricia LeonhardtThe powerful forces of erosion sculpted this rock near Yucca. Jan Emming of Yucca knew how to find the formation and led Dustin George of Mesa on a hike to the area. See more of George's photos at instagram.com/dustin_george.Photo: Dustin George"I have been hoping to capture a windmill in silhouette for ages, and I was sure this would be the one," writes Diane Stava of Peoria. She went to White Tank Mountain Regional Park at sunrise to make this image. See more of her photos at instagram.com/fridakitten.Photo: Diane StavaPatrick Bulger of Mesa was drawn to these bright flowers by the side of the road. He says he captured this image with his smartphone. Spot the bee? See more of his photos at instagram.com/ny_2_az.Photo: Patrick BulgerOhio State University student Amanda Hudock's spring-break trip to Arizona included a mint chocolate-chip cone and a spring-training game. See more of her photos at instagram.com/amanda_foodok.Photo: Amanda HudockThe Milky Way over Superstition Mountain east of Phoenix put on a stellar show for Corey Grapevine of Tempe. See more photos at instagram.com/cgrapevine.Photo: Corey Grapevine"We met this young burro on the Wild Burro Trail at Lake Pleasant," explains Chris Stabelfeldt of Surprise. "We turned a corner, and there he was on the trail ahead."Photo: Chris StabelfeldtMilad Rashidi ponders a way down after climbing the Hitchcock Pinnacle at Mount Lemmon near Tucson. Shayan Mahmood of Tucson says when he made the photo, "the thought of living life on the edge came to my mind." See more photos at instagram.com/intstashay.Photo: Shayan MahmoodMaribeth Brady of Phoenix had her camera ready when this tiny hummingbird perched on an equally tiny branch in the Desert Ridge area of Phoenix. See more of her photos at instagram.com/mbbaz.Photo: Maribeth BradyKim Carlson of Chandler took her sister, Jennifer Carlson, to Phoenix's Roosevelt Row. Carlson writes: "I loved the idea of putting her in front of this mural by Lauren Lee of three songbirds because she is an amazing singer herself." The mural was torn down with the building shortly after this photo was taken. See more of her photos at instagram.com/kimanncarlson.Photo: Kim CarlsonTricia Leonhardt of Avondale has a double reason to party on St. Patrick's Day: It's also her birthday. To celebrate, she writes: "I usually go all out and do something fun and dress up and hike. I have many pics through the years of me dressing up in my green leprechaun gear hiking all over the state." She got these cactus in White Tank Mountain Regional Park in on the fun. See more of her photos at instagram.com/trailmagictrish.Photo: Tricia LeonhardtJeff Farrell of Tempe climbed to the top of Tempe's A Mountain for this view of the sunset. See more of his photos at instagram.com/jeff.farrell.Photo: Jeff FarrellNathaniel Cook of Phoenix describes himself as a big hiking fan. He says, "(I) usually get out to Camelback at least once every 2 weeks. ... The day I took this particular picture, I decided to get off the trail to do some exploring ... (and) stumbled upon this cave section and loved the framed view it created." See more of his photos at instagram.com/natecook_.Photo: Nathaniel CookA wrangler and her horse Durango are forever frozen in time in this image by Rose Erato of Scottsdale. Erato writes that she made this image while leading a photo workshop at was Fort McDowell Adventures. See more of her photos on her website, www.roseerato.com.Photo: Rose Erato"I've seen a lot of poppies lately," writes Amanda Asselin of Peoria, "but the purple plants mixing with the poppies against the gorgeous blue cloudy sky made me remember why I love my home state!!" She stopped for this photo while out hiking at Bartlett Lake. See more of her photos at instagram.com/dodgechallengergirl.Photo: Amanda AsselinA lonely century plant stands sentinel in the Superstition Wilderness. Michael Genovese of Mesa made this photo at sunrise near Carney Springs. See more of his photos at instagram.com/su1c1de_king.Photo: Michael GenoveseIt's always Arizona of yesteryear at Tucson's Hotel Congress. Nancy Dimock of Tucson snapped these vintage autos during Dillinger Days, which commemorates the town's connection to the infamous outlaw John Dillinger. See more of her photos at instagram.com/nancygdi.Photo: Nancy DimockThe Tom's Thumb Trail in Scottsdale's McDowell Sonoran Conservancy Preserve offered a solitary saguaro and a stunning view to Ruby Trainor of Gilbert. See more of her photos at instagram.com/wahine_03.Photo: Ruby TrainorFlagstaff was still buried in snow on the first day of March. Dore Buhrmann of Flagstaff made this nearly black-and-white image at the historic train depot. See more photos at instagram.com/dorexplorer.Photo: Dore BuhrmannArt is all over metro Phoenix, if you know where to look. This bridge over the Rawhide Wash in Scottsdale is meant to invoke the mighty surge of rapids during flash flooding. Alex Juwong of Scottsdale says his long-exposure self-portrait captured the movement of passing cars, "with the juxtaposition of me standing firm." See more of his photos at instagram.com/atypicalalex.Photo: Alex JuwongEd Cheremet of Goodyear spotted "The Biter" at the Coon Bluff Campground along the Lower Salt River. Wild horses are often seen along the river in Tonto National Forest. See more of his photos at instagram.com/edcheremet.Photo: Ed CheremetKevin M. Wead of Casa Grande caught these birds all aflutter at daybreak. See more of his photos at instagram.com/kmbwead.Photo: Kevin M. WeadDesert wildflowers color the hills at Peridot Mesa in this spring photo by Stacy Lankford of Scottsdale. See more of his photos at instagram.com/lankford.Photo: Stacy LankfordEvan Dargen of Chandler went to investigate after he heard something in the bushes on the Crest Trail near the summit of Silly Mountain in Apache Junction. He writes that the "very approachable young chuckwalla" didn't seem to mind a camera and photographer being about a foot away. See more of his photos at instagram.com/evanomd.Photo: Evan DargenThe stars above helped illuminate the 2015 Munduzer Festival, held in Lower Devils Canyon near Superior. Anthony Swann of Scottsdale shared a frame from his timelapse video, which can be seen on his Instagram page, instagram.com/swanndive.Photo: Anthony SwannDuane Blackburn of Lake Havasu City writes: "I was driving home on (State Route) 95 on the north side of the Lake Havasu City limits and noticed a ton of purple and yellow flowers on the side of the road" and just had to stop driving in order to take a photo. See more of his photos at instagram.com/itsaduanelife.Photo: Duane BlackburnThink hiking Camelback Mountain is hard? How about doing it twice in a row? To get this view from the Flatiron in the Superstitions, you have to tackle a hike that's even harder. Darren De Santiago snapped this photo of Chris Waters of Scottsdale enjoying the well-earned view. See more of his photos at instagram.com/_darren22. Visit Waters' Instagram at instagram.com/thecrazycane.Photo: Darren De SantiagoHarper Clark, 5, pushes a fresh snowball she made in Flagstaff. Cameron Clark of Flagstaff captured the snowy scene the first week of March. See more photos at instagram.com/cameronclarkphoto.Photo: Cameron ClarkVeronica Carrillo of Phoenix was out at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix when she came across this butterfly. Her response: "Dreamy." See more of her photos at instagram.com/roni_carrillo.Photo: Veronica CarrilloThe Wigwam Motel in Holbrook opened in 1950 and became a Route 66 icon. Dan Navarro of Scottsdale writes that he and his wife "came across the motel by pure chance on our way to the Petrified National Forest on Route 66." He adds: "The hotel keeps a half dozen classic 1940s-, '50s- and '60s-styled cars in front of their iconic tipi rooms." See more of his photos at instagram.com/danavarro.Photo: Dan NavarroIt's called SUP yoga and you do it on a stand-up paddleboard. Caitlin Garber took this photo of her fellow teacher Adrian Lesoing (second from right) at a Tempe Town Lake class. Also pictured (from left): Janna Welch, Peyton Muralt and Leandra Courrier. Her photo was posted on Lesoing's Instagram account at instagram.com/adrianlovesowls.Photo: Caitlin Garber And Adrian LesoingEven experts don't know exactly what causes the saguaro to grow in this unusual formation, described as "crested." Adam Baca of Florence spotted this one south of Florence along the Florence-Kelvin Highway.Photo: Adam BacaGoku the Husky (red collar) romps in the snow with some pals at Flagstaff's Thorpe Dog Park. Owner Isaac T. Hawkins of Mesa writes, "There happened to be three other Siberian Huskies there, so he got to play around and get rambunctious with them. It seemed like they were in their natural habitat." See more of his photos at instagram.com/hawkszn.Photo: Isaac T. HawkinsMetro Phoenix woke to a foggy day. Nic Spatt of Scottsdale had this view of a cloud-shrouded Thompson Peak from his back yard. See more of his photos at instagram.com/n_spatt.Nic SpattLook twice. Did you spot the toad? Wes Sheldon of Prescott and his daughter Layla ran across the well-camouflaged creature on their hike in Wolf Creek near Prescott. See more of his photos at instagram.com/wes_sheldon.Photo: Wes SheldonThe snow is so deep in Arizona's high country, it's buried the agaves. Kim Reabe of Linden writes that her photo was taken along a trail in Linden. "Most of the terrain in this area in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest(s) is covered by ponderosa pines and Utah junipers, but then we have these little gems of the forest, the agaves, scattered in amongst the trees," she writes. See more of her photos at instagram.com/wanderingrimcountry.Photo: Kim ReabeRoss Dinsdale of Gilbert captions his photo of a burrowing owl: "La la la la laaaaa." He explains that Desert Rivers Audubon has placed tubes in the ground at Zanjero Park in Gilbert for the birds to use as burrows, so it's a good spot to see them. See more of his photos at instagram.com/therealskeletor.Ross DinsdaleWhen Arizona's golden sunsets come knocking, photographers answer. Daniel Alpert of Flagstaff caught this moment at Horseshoe Bend with friend Lauren Castro, also of Flagstaff. See more of his photos at instagram.com/danieljames.a.Daniel AlpertGila woodpeckers often nest inside saguaros, excavating holes with their sharp beaks. The resulting cavity is called a "boot." Allison Mayes caught this one making a quick exit from its saguaro home in her Scottsdale neighborhood. See more of her photos at instagram.com/amayesingphotos.Allison Mayes"I got down on the ground, set my camera on macro then waited for the sun in the distance to hit the horizon till I got those sweet lens flare rays," writes Polly McMillan Raymond of Bullhead City about the scene in her back yard. See more of her photos at instagram.com/pollymcmillanraymond.Photo: Polly McMillan RaymondA winter's trip to the Grand Canyon yielded this snowy view for Hailey Golich of Flagstaff and her friend Jaymie Shearer of San Luis Obispo, Calif. See more of her photos at instagram.com/haileygolich.Photo: Hailey GolichIt's not a fog-covered bank in Paris, but one in Phoenix's Arcadia area. Judith Fedo of Phoenix posed for her sister, Josie. See more of Josie Fedo's photos at instagram.com/shunthesun.Photo: Josie Fedo"I was at Boyce Thompson Arboretum taking a photo of the beautiful Chinese Quince bush, when this female Anna's hummingbird joined in," writes Darcy Rose of Phoenix. See more of her photos at instagram.com/darcewoman.Darcy RoseKate Sheppard of Phoenix found this distinctive rock formation at Pinnacle Peak Park in Scottsdale. See more of her photos at instagram.com/kateshep100.Photo: Kate SheppardSpot the little girl? Ayanah Newsum of Ahwatukee Foothills made a portrait of her daughter, Juniper, in front of this colorful mural at the Arizona State University Art Museum branch at Combine Studios in Phoenix. See more of her photos at instagram.com/ayanah.Photo: Ayanah NewsumAndrea Handler of Scottsdale says she used the Snapseed, Aviary and ColorSplash apps to add a hint of color to her photo of a canal off Camelback Road.Photo: Andrea Handler"Next year, @devine_mathieu!!!" Terrance Enos of Salt River hopes to see the Super Bowl trophy in the hands of Arizona Cardinal Tyrann Mathieu. His girlfriend, Karen Parrish, snapped this shot in Super Bowl Central. See more photos at instagram.com/rezzy03.Photo: Karen ParrishSedona's 7 Sacred Pools shimmer after a rainstorm. Tyler Sichelski of Chandler writes, "We got rained on in both locations we shot at, but I was able to get some gems out of the day." See more of his photos at instagram.com/tyskiphoto.Photo: Tyler SichelskiA little cactus field goal? Alex Fitzhugh of Gilbert said he was thinking, "It's good!" when he found this scene in Queen Valley near sunrise. See more of his photos at instagram.com/afitzu.Photo: Alex FitzhughLife sometimes is a matter of perspective. Rod Pitts of Phoenix writes that he was exploring downtown Phoenix and wanted to get some shots from higher ground at a parking garage at Van Buren and Second streets. "It was cool to see areas of downtown Phoenix from a different perspective as I walked around the top of this parking garage," he explains. See more of his photos at instagram.com/rodpitts.Photo: Rod PittsOne of the Grand Canyon's seldom-seen faces: Filled with fog. The event, called inversion, happens every few years. Mike Campbell, who lives in Grand Canyon Village, took this photo from the South Kaibab Trail above Pipe Creek Canyon, which he describes as a minor side canyon on the South Rim. See more of his photos at instagram.com/canyonology.Photo: Mike CampbellJust one of those signs that makes you say, "Only in Arizona." Sara Blake of Youngtown was out walking in northeast Surprise when she crossed this warning sign. See more of her photos at twitter.com/cleverpirate.Photo: Sara Blake"Just had to pull over and admire the cool cloud pattern," writes Tricia Polsky of Tucson of the striking scene over Tucson. See more of her photos at instagram.com/tpwheels.Photo: Tricia PolskyGood thing this plane is safely on the ground. Elizabeth Soricelli of Cave Creek and her boyfriend, Josh Naylor of Cave Creek, were exploring the abandoned Gila River Memorial Airport in Chandler. See more of her photos at instagram.com/elizabethsoricelli.Photo: Elizabeth SoricelliA double rainbow lit up the skies for Kim Hay of Cave Creek as she was taking a walk near her home. See more of her photos at instagram.com/kimhaywire.Photo: Kim HayIsaac Nelson of Lake Havasu City snapped this sunset at the London Bridge Golf Club. He wrote: "Just another amazing Arizona sunset." See more of his photos at instagram.com/eyesac928.Isaac NelsonThe Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix offers a prickly perch for this Arizona avian. Lori A. Johnson of Phoenix spotted the sharp sitter during her visit. See more of her photos at instagram.com/lajphotos.Photo: Lori A. JohnsonA hike up Camelback Mountain's Echo Canyon Trail rewarded John Wise of Phoenix with this view of metro Phoenix. See more of his photos at instagram.com/ksotr.Photo: John WiseYou can see why hummingbirds are called "flying jewels." This little beauty was spotted by Ashley Bogdan in her Tucson back yard. See more of her photos at instagram.com/silverskyrose.Photo: Ashley BogdanErin Leake gazes out upon Sedona from Cathedral Rock in this photo by An Pham of Mesa. See more photos at instagram.com/pham_tography.An PhamA blanket of fog drapes metro Phoenix. Danny Upshaw had this view of the rare sight from Camelback Mountain's Cholla Trail. See more of his photos at instagram.com/unheard_harmony.Photo: Danny UpshawTrue love, Arizona style? Evelyn Harrison of Tucson says she ran across this collared lizard pair at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson.Photo: Evelyn HarrisonErin Raczynski of Chandler helped coach the University of Arizona pomline as the young women spent 50 hours in rehearsals over two weeks, getting ready for their part as orbs in Katy Perry’s halftime show. She took this photo from the sidelines: "Getting to be there, watching them perform in front of the packed stadium and huge TV audience was an experience I will never forget!"Photo: Erin RaczynskiNicole Powell of Anthem says everyone tells her that her 8-year-old son, Logan, looks like a young version of the Houston Texans' Justin James "J.J." Watt. So she "couldn't help but snap this shot” of Logan posing in front of a photo of Watt at the NFL Experience in downtown Phoenix. See more of her photos at instagram.com/myguysandi.Photo: Nicole PowellSuper Bowl Central transformed downtown Phoenix, attracting thousands of visitors to the spectacle. Lori A. Johnson of Phoenix spotted these Aztec dancers by the main stage. See more of her photos at instagram.com/lajphotos.Photo: Lori A. JohnsonGive a smile and you may just get one back. Sitara Indigo of Tempe is all smiles for her friend Brandon Roggeman, also of Tempe. See more of his photos at instagram.com/brandonroggeman.Photo: Brandon RoggemanDespite its reputation as a desert state, Arizona really does get snow. James Crook of Phoenix spotted this snowy landscape near Page. See more of his photos at instagram.com/jamespixel.Photo: James CrookRiotous sunset colors of orange and purple grabbed the attention of Michael Joseph Baca of Florence as he was near Highway 79.Photo: Michael Joseph BacaThe setting sun casts a golden light on a saguaro at the Butcher Jones Recreation Area at Saguaro Lake. LeAnn Sanchez of Mesa adds a cautionary word: "Don't forget bug spray." See more of her photos at instagram.com/azhikergal.Photo: LeAnn Sanchez"Blue shining through," writes Rebecca Baril of Tucson, describing the photo she made at Tucson's Tohono Chul Park. See more of her photos at instagram.com/beccab232.Photo: Rebecca BarilSunlight beckoned Josh Laughery of Gilbert down this Arizona highway in Tonto National Forest's Queen Creek Canyon. See more of his photos at instagram.com/lawfree.Photo: Josh LaugheryEver wonder how bats get a drink? Delia Neal of Gold Canyon had her camera ready when this one swooped out of the sky. She writes, "We were at a small tank near the Kofas (National Wildlife Refuge) and set up a couple of flashes that were triggered by movement so that the bats would trip them when they flew in for a drink." See more of her photos at instagram.com/hotdrysunny.Photo: Delia NealIf you know when and where to look, Arizona skies can deliver some surprises. Trisha Young of Gilbert spotted these hot-air balloons gliding through the Gilbert skies. See more of her photos at instagram.com/trishad623.Photo: Trisha Young"I saw this beautiful painted horse with a blue eye and coaxed him over," writes Rodman Small of Florence about the encounter at Pondarosa Stables near South Mountain Park in Phoenix. See more of his photos at instagram.com/mass2az.Photo: Rodman SmallLife in Arizona can be doggone good, especially on a sunny winter's day. Lauren Marshall of Chandler shared her photo of her mom's dog, Buddha, catching some rays. See more of her photos at instagram.com/elleboog.Photo: Lauren MarshallIt was a stunner of a sunset in Surprise that Peggy Harding caught on camera.Peggy HardingThe brilliant colors on this Anna's hummingbird rival any Arizona sunset. Jessica Cary-Alvarez of Corona de Tucson captured this close-up in her yard. See more of her photos at instagram.com/ciquah.Photo: Jessica Cary-Alvarez"I spent an hour here photographing the changing light at sunset," writes Sue Kerr of Sydney, Australia about her visit to Monument Valley. "The next morning the valley was totally engulfed in fog!" See more photos from her Arizona trip at instagram.com/sooziegirl.Photo: Sue KerrA hike on the Siphon Draw Trail in Lost Dutchman State Park led Terri Barber of Chandler to this superb view. See more of her photos at instagram.com/terribarber64.Photo: Terri BarberIs your child a daredevil? Take them to Mesa's Riverview Park for a bird's eye view from the top of the jungle gym. Ryan William James of Tempe says he was "taking in the view from the top of the tallest jungle gym I have ever seen." See more of his photos at instagram.com/ryanwilliamjames.Photo: Ryan William JamesIt was a good week for chrome and steel in Phoenix, with both the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car auction and the Monster Energy AMA Supercross in town. Garett Hensing of Tempe spotted an opportunity for a self-portrait in the polished wheel of a team's semi-truck at the Supercross event at Chase Field. See more of his photos at instagram.com/ghennynaz.Photo: Garett Hensing"With the recent snowfall, we had our fingers crossed that we'd make it to the summit of Brown's Peak, the northernmost and tallest of the Four Peaks," writes Cody Howard of Scottsdale about his trip with Chante Fox of Scottsdale. "The iced-up climb got tricky at points, but the top of the world views: Worth it." See more of his photos at instagram.com/_cody_howard_.Photo: Cody HowardA little lens distortion and Dustin George of Mesa caught this saguaro reaching for the sky at Usery Mountain Regional Park in Mesa. See more of his photos at instagram.com/dustin_george.Photo: Dustin GeorgeBecky Wenger of Scottsdale titles her photo: "Even the clouds look like hummingbirds in Arizona." She says she spotted "a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence" at Lost Dog Wash Trailhead in Scottsdale.Photo: Becky Wenger"I was in such awe of the winter wonderland our community has turned into, I took off first thing in the morning to photograph the surrounding beauty," says Valeria Johnson of Paradise Valley about the snowy scene she photographed in Flagstaff's Pine Canyon community. She adds that she later shared her photos with her family in Russia, "who've gotten much less snow this winter than we did!" See more of her photos at instagram.com/valerussia7.Photo: Valeria JohnsonDylan Martin of Tucson calls this shot: "Red rock reflections." Two hikers in the distance offer perspective on the size of this Sedona formation. See more of his photos at instagram.com/dylmar85.Photo: Dylan MartinMural hunters, have you seen this one? If not, head to 13th and Van Buren streets in Phoenix. Larry Tualla of Mesa brought his 4-year-old daughter, Charlee, to check it out. See more of his photos at instagram.com/6pennies.Photo: Larry TuallaEver seen a hummingbird play in the snow? Jessica Cary-Alvarez of Corona de Tucson spotted this one waiting for its turn at the front-yard feeder. See more of her photos at instagram.com/ciquah.Photo: Jessica Cary-AlvarezA Harris hawk strikes a pose for Karen McCrorey of Tucson at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson. See more of her photos at instagram.com/cherokeelion.Photo: Karen McCroreyA winter trip to the Grand Canyon was especially memorable for Joseph Sage of Sierra Vista. Not only did he witness the canyon covered in snow, he also proposed to his girlfriend (she said yes). He made this panorama on the spot: The Desert View Watchtower on the South Rim.Photo: Joseph Sage"This is the view we had the next morning when the sun came up," Steph Belt of Gilbert says of her camping trip in the Superstition Mountains. See more of her photos at instagram.com/adventuresteph.Photo: Steph BeltOut of the corner of her eye, Darcy Rose of Phoenix spotted these Canada geese taking off. She says she's often at the Gilbert Riparian Preserve, "a fabulous place to see and photograph many native and migratory birds." See more of her photos at instagram.com/darcewoman.Photo: Darcy RoseSometimes, beauty is just out your back door. Bryan J. Pickett says he got this shot of Four Peaks from his balcony in Fountain Hills. See more of his photos at instagram.com/bryanpickett.Photo: Bryan J. PickettA New Year's Eve snowstorm turned Sedona into a winter wonderland on Jan. 1. Mounir Metwally of Sedona traveled to several scenic spots, including Schnebly Hill: "That made the first morning in the new year so spectacular."Photo: Mounir MetwallyAs Daniel Lujan of Eloy took in the setting sun at Nichols Park in Gilbert, he spotted a mother with a child in her arms. He says: "I couldn't help but take in the moment of remembering my own mother, who is a mother of four boys." See more of his photos at instagram.com/d_lujan.Photo: Daniel Lujan