Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Kelly Hahs
Sun-baked deserts may dominate outsiders’ perceptions of Arizona, but photographer Kelly Hahs reveals a different story through her lens as she uncovers a world of exotic beauty that rivals international destinations. Her images, captured with nothing more than a tripod and an adventurous spirit, transport viewers to lush oases, azure waters and dramatic canyons that seem a world away from the typical Southwestern landscape.
“The biggest misconception I think Arizona has is that it is ‘just a desert,’” Hahs says. “Arizona is so much more.”
Hahs, who grew up in the Midwest, fell in love with Arizona’s diverse terrain after moving to the state. Her photography journey began in 2013 following a personal tragedy that highlighted the power of images to preserve precious moments.
“I lost my dad unexpectedly in 2013, and I found so much peace looking back at our family albums,” Hahs recalls. “Those photos captured so many precious moments in time and have a way of taking me right back to that moment. It was shortly after his passing that I became obsessed with capturing my memories.”
This obsession evolved into a passion for showcasing Arizona’s hidden gems. Hahs’ images, which often feature her basking in the beauty of her surroundings, give off undeniable “vacation vibes” that challenge preconceptions about the Grand Canyon State.
“I fell in love with the desert landscape: the cacti, the mountains and uninterrupted views of the sky,” Hahs explains. “I wanted to see it all. I started on trails and slowly built up my confidence to discover more remote places in Arizona and haven’t stopped.”
Her exploration has led her to lesser-known spots that many wouldn’t associate with Arizona: cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes and verdant canyons that could easily be mistaken for tropical paradises. These discoveries are the result of Hahs’ keen eye and willingness to venture off the beaten path.
“Once I became familiar with the trails and the mountains, I started to notice more off trail,” she says. “I would see varnish and make a mental note to check that out after a good rain. Or I’d see a little arch and try to figure out the best way to reach it.”
Through her lens, Hahs invites viewers to experience Arizona’s surprising diversity and beauty. Her images serve as both a showcase of the state’s natural wonders and an invitation to explore.
“My hope would be to inspire others to get outside and explore,” Hahs says. “Nature has been so healing for me, and I hope it has the same effect on others.”
As you journey through Hahs’ Arizona, prepare to be transported to places that feel a world away, yet are hidden in plain sight within the state’s borders. These images remind us that sometimes the most exotic vacations are waiting just around the corner, hidden within our own state’s diverse landscapes.
Confluence and Courage
While each of Kelly Hahs’ photographs tells a story, the tale behind her image of the canyon walls near the Confluence stands out. This shot required not just skill, but true adventurer’s grit.
“The hike to the Confluence is around 15 miles in addition to the mandatory 10-plus-mile hike you must complete before tackling the Confluence,” Hahs explains. “You leave the Indian reservation and enter Grand Canyon National Park. It was amazing to watch the canyon walls grow larger.”
The journey itself was a photographer’s dream.
“The creek that carves through the canyon is absolutely stunning,” she recalls. “Crossing the milky blue water, the remoteness of the location and watching the rams along the hike was something dreams are made of.”
But the real challenge came at the end.
“Once you approach the Confluence, you enter the Colorado River to walk into the creek, where the blue-green water clashes with the Colorado River,” Hahs says. “When I was there, the water was flowing very fast and deep due to the snowmelt. The current was much stronger than I anticipated, and I had to have a friend help pull me through a section to complete my bucket list walk through the canyon.”
This experience encapsulates the dedication and sometimes daring nature of Hahs’ work. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and preparation when exploring Arizona’s wild places.
“My advice to anyone who wants to get out and explore would be to overpack water, snacks and sunscreen,” Hahs says. “Tell someone where you are going and when you should be back. Go out, be safe and make those memories.”
About the Photographer
Kelly Hahs is an Arizona-based photographer whose work captures the diverse and often unexpected beauty of the Grand Canyon State. Her journey into photography began in 2013 following the sudden loss of her father. Finding solace in family photo albums, Hahs discovered the power of images to preserve memories and emotions, igniting her passion for photography.
“Photographs can capture so many feelings and preserve those little moments in time,” Hahs reflects.
Originally from the Midwest, Hahs fell in love with Arizona’s unique landscape upon moving to the state. The stark contrast between her childhood surroundings and the Southwest’s dramatic scenery fueled her desire to explore and document Arizona’s hidden gems.
“I grew up in the Midwest, and while there is charm in the Midwest, Arizona is drastically different,” she says. “I wanted to see it all.”
Hahs’ work goes beyond typical desert scenes, showcasing Arizona’s lesser-known waterfalls, canyons and oases. Her images, often featuring herself immersed in these breathtaking locations, give viewers a sense of scale and invite them to imagine themselves in these stunning settings.
With a significant Instagram following, Hahs uses her platform to challenge perceptions about Arizona and inspire others to explore the outdoors. Her photographs not only showcase the state’s beauty but also serve as a testament to the healing power of nature.
“My favorite thing about exploring Arizona is, hands down, the sunsets and sunrises here. They are just unbeatable,” Hahs enthuses. “Monsoon season brings some of the best sunsets, and I live for the smell of rain.”
Through her work, Hahs continues to uncover and share Arizona’s hidden treasures, reminding us that extraordinary beauty often lies just off the beaten path.
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