Phoenix, Arizona Offers Optimal Trails for All Hiking Experience Levels
The Valley of the Sun, Phoenix, Arizona, is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, especially those fond of desert landscapes. So if you're seeking great hikes in the desert, look no further! This guide is all you need to plan your epic hiking adventure.
Tackling hikes in Phoenix with kids is a breeze! Contrary to popular belief, Camelback Mountain isn't the only game in town. There are several family-friendly hikes ideal for families with young children.
When it comes to the best time to hike in Phoenix, AZ, the secret is in the timing. Most of the year, Phoenix is hot, so the ideal hiking months are late fall, winter, and early spring when temperatures are comfortably in the 60s to 70s. Summer hiking isn't unheard of, but it's essential to head out early in the morning or evening to avoid the scorching heat.
Without further ado, here are the best hikes in Phoenix, Arizona, organized by difficulty levels for your convenience:
Easy Hikes in Phoenix, Arizona
Slate Trail, Cave Creek Regional Park
If you're beginning your hiking journey or have young children, don't worry! Cave Creek Regional Park has some easy-to-moderate trails that are perfect for you. The Slate Trail, an easy 4-mile hike, is a lovely introduction to the area. Kids will love spotting the iconic Michelin Man Saguaro along the way.
Adjacent to the trail, you'll find a cool playground your kids will adore! Complete with a scorpion slide, cactus swings, and a bobcat climbing area, this playground is a fun way to cap off your hike.
Hole in the Rock Hiking Trail, Papago Park, Phoenix
Hole in the Rock is a brief, easy, and unique 0.3-mile hike located in the heart of Phoenix. After a quick climb, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city. Be aware of the steep drop-off at the top, and keep in mind that it can be slippery after rainy days.
Papago Park is also home to the Phoenix Zoo, so you can easily add this quick hike to a zoo visit or enjoy a picnic near the ponds. For the best views, hike Hole in the Rock at sunset.
Javelina Trail, North Scottsdale
Suitable for families, the Javelina Trail in North Scottsdale is a 3-mile loop trail that is paved and perfect for strollers, bikes, or running. The trail runs adjacent to a residential neighborhood, making it safe and friendly for families. Keep your eyes peeled for javelinas, quails, and rabbits!
Moderate Hikes in Phoenix, Arizona
If you're looking for hikes more challenging than Hole in the Rock but not as difficult as Camelback Mountain, you'll find the following options ideal:
Marcus Landslide Trail, Scottsdale, AZ
One of our favorite moderate trails in Scottsdale, the Marcus Landslide Trail is a 4-mile round trip with amazing desert views. Easy terrain and educational plaques along the trail make it perfect for kids. Desert bunnies are plentiful, and a unique mushroom rock formation is a fun stop along the trail.
Coon Bluff Trail, Tonto Forest, Arizona
Coon Bluff Trail, a 2.7-mile loop, is a delightful moderate hike. With beautiful camping facilities, this trail is popular for those seeking wild horse sightings in the Tonto Forest. If you head to the trail at the right time, you might catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures as they sip water from the Salt River.
Blue Wash Waterfall Trail
The Blue Wash Waterfall Trail in Carefree leads to a small yet refreshing waterfall. This unique trail takes you through the Tonto National Forest and is perfect for those seeking a hike ending in a waterfall. The waterfall may be small, but it offers a refreshing treat during the hot Phoenix summer days.
Broadway Cave Trail
Broadway Cave Trail boasts stunning desert scenery and even features a cave at the end of the trail. Located in the Superstition Mountains near Apache Junction, this 4-mile round trip hike offers incredible views from the cave summit. The cave itself has a small entrance that can accommodate a few people at a time. Use caution when entering the cave, as there may be bats inside.
Challenging Hikes in Phoenix, Arizona
If you're ready for a challenge, these hikes will test your strength and endurance:
Tom's Thumb Trail, Scottsdale, AZ
Tom's Thumb Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in Scottsdale. The 4-mile round trip hike directly takes you up the mountain, offering breathtaking views along the way. The infamous thumb can be spotted as you ascend, and reaching the summit means you've conquered the summit! Although the trail is challenging, the incredible views make it worth the effort.
Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Trail, Phoenix, AZ
Known as the "King of all trails in Phoenix," the Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Trail is considered extremely difficult and strenuous. The hike takes between 2-3 hours, depending on your pace, and requires a considerable amount of endurance. It's divided into three stages: a steep trail, two sets of stairs (or railway ties), and a rock-climbing section.
Always remember to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable, durable hiking shoes. For an added layer of protection, consider using hiking gloves and bringing a small first-aid kit. Camelback Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in Phoenix, so expect crowds and plan accordingly.
[1] "Curated List of Family-Friendly Hikes in Phoenix, Arizona." BorrowLenses.com, 2022. https://borrowlenses.com/articles/family-friendly-hikes-in-phoenix-arizona/
[2] "Mad Desert Trekking." MadDesertTrekking.com, 2022. https://maddeserttrekking.com/
[5] "Papago Park." PhxParks.com, 2022. https://www.phx.gov/parks/desertbotanical/hiking-trails
- If you're planning a trip with kids to Phoenix, Arizona, and looking for enjoyable hikes, consider easy options like the Slate Trail at Cave Creek Regional Park or Hole in the Rock Hiking Trail in Papago Park.
- For avid hikers, the weather in Phoenix might affect your choice of hiking seasons. The ideal months to hike are late fall, winter, and early spring when temperatures are pleasant and comfortable. However, summer hiking isn't unheard of, with early morning or evening hikes recommended to avoid the scorching heat.
- If you're seeking education-focused experiences, the Marcus Landslide Trail in Scottsdale offers easy terrain and educational plaques along the trail, perfect for both hikers and learners.
- If you prefer a challenging hike, the Tom's Thumb Trail or the infamous Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Trail in Phoenix will test your endurance and reward you with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
