Ten Best Hikes in Phoenix, Arizona
A Guide to the Ten Best Hikes in Phoenix, AZ
Before You Hike, Don't Forget These Necessities:
Now that you’ve got your supplies and are ready to experience the incredible views The Valley has to offer, here is a list of 10 of the best hikes in The Valley! All of the trails below are free and are below based on level of difficulty.
Easy Hikes
Location- Papago Park, Phoenix, AZ
Check out the red sandstone formations of Papago Park by hiking around and inside of them. This two-part hike can begin with an easier dirt loop starting in the West Park parking lot. Then, with a short drive across the street to the east side, you can climb stairs to the Hole in the Rock landmark to get views of the stunning natural landscape, some desert-inspired pictures, and see the distant downtown skyline.
Location- Phoenix Sonoran Desert Preserve, Phoenix, AZ
This trail offers an easy climb with beautiful views of the desert. As you walk along the desert floor you will get the chance to take in a variety of cacti, desert flowers, and even some wildlife, like cactus wrens or owls. Let us know if you happen to come across a tortoise...we have yet to.
Location- Pick your starting point
The Phoenix Canals hold a special place in our hearts as the Desert Dweller Co. These historic waterways built by the original Desert Dwellers are not only a great way to see our mountain ranges and beautiful neighborhoods but also see for yourself how Arizona conserves water. You can learn more about the history of the canals here History of the Phoenix Water Canals
Medium Difficulty
Location: Pinnacle Peak Park, Scottsdale, AZ
Pinnacle Peak Trail offers fantastic views of North Scottsdale. If you are looking to level yourself up a bit from the easy hikes, this hike would be a great one to try. This trail is well maintained, and allows for running, biking, and hiking with kids. If you are planning a trip to Phoenix in the spring, you must see the desert wildflowers in bloom on this trail. These flowers highlight the trail with their beautiful orange, pink, yellow and purple colors.
Location: Thunderbird Conservation Park, Glendale, AZ
The Cholla Loop is located on the West side of Phoenix in Glendale, AZ. This trail is quieter and less known by tourists, and offers a great workout with views overlooking the Phoenix area. Though a bit more strenuous, when you get to the top and see the American flag waving at you, you’ll know you’ve made it!
Location: Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Phoenix, AZ
The Lookout Mountain Summit Trail is a quicker hike with a great lookout of the surrounding mountains and city. It’s short but steep so come prepared, with your hiking shoes to get you to the top. Although it is more vertical towards the top its manageable, and its short nature makes it the perfect spot for a quick evening hike before sunset.
Location: Desert Vista Trailhead, Phoenix, AZ
The Dixie Mountain Loop located in North Phoenix, it is a part of the dozens of hikes available in the Sonoran Preserve. As a longer, moderate level hike this one is still manageable. The trail also offers the benefit of less people around you. In order to get to this hike from the trailhead, begin at Hawk’s Nest and proceed to Dixie Mountain Loop.
Hard | For More Experienced Hikers
Echo Canyon Trail (2.4 miles out and back)
Location: Camelback Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
One of the most well-known hikes in Phoenix, conquering the Echo Canyon Trail is no easy feat. This challenging hike is uphill, steep, and at some points requires you to use your hands. If you're ready to take on this challenge, the views of Greater Phoenix at the top are incredible! This hike can easily be done in shorter segments by simply turning back and heading back down. Expect a busy trail, and be sure to have our hiking essentials with you!
Location: Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Phoenix, AZ
A close second in popularity to Camelback Mountain, this trail offers a definite challenge but a big scenic payoff. With an ascent from 1,400 to 2,608 feet, make sure you are fully prepared with water to get you to the top!
Location: McDowell Sonoran Desert Preserve, Scottsdale, AZ
Located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, this well-known and well-kept hike features a signature boulder formation (aka Tom’s Thumb) that we’d love to see a double thumbs- up photo with. You will enjoy upland Boulder fields and desert flora as you gain elevation, especially in the first two miles, of this more difficult trail. However, at the top there are incredible views of Scottsdale waiting for you!
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And there you have it! The ten best hikes in Phoenix. Just like the variety of Arizona mountain ranges, we have supplied you with a diverse list of epic trails to fit your unique needs. Let’s all enjoy our great state together!
