Searching for hiking trails in Arizona? This list has you covered. Explore our guide to the top 10 Arizona hiking trails to stay active and healthy year-round.
February 15, 2022
The Grand Canyon State is home to plentiful sunshine and natural wonders, making it easy to stay active year-round. We’ve compiled a list of the best trails in Arizona — all of which are a short drive from Phoenix — to help you discover the state’s beauty as you improve your mental and physical health in 2022.
Whether you take the kids for a quick hike to Hole in the Rock or challenge your stamina at Camelback Mountain, this guide will help adventure-seekers of all skill levels make the most of hiking in Arizona.
Remember to always stay hydrated before, during and after exercise. Check out more safety tips before you head out on a hiking adventure.
Length of Hike: .3 miles out-and-back
Estimated Time of Hike: 10-15 minutes
If you’re brand new to hiking in Arizona and have 15 minutes to spare before sunset, stop by Hole in the Rock. This out-and-back hike in Papago Park may be less than half a mile from start to finish, but at the top you’ll find something quite unique: a rock formation with a large hole that provides picturesque views of the city. Bring your family and friends of all ages, climb into the rock’s spacious coves and get comfortable as you watch the sun go down.
Length of Hike: 3.2 miles out-and-back
Estimated Time of Hike: 1.5 hours
Wild Burro Trail is a heavily trafficked, out-and-back trail that’s perfect for all skill levels. This pleasant hike is set amid gorgeous lakefront scenery, and there’s even a good chance you’ll spot a few wild donkeys and unique bird species along the way! While you may encounter some light incline and rockiness, the trail is generally flat and smooth. So, whether you’re taking the dog for a stroll or testing your running endurance, the Wild Burro Trail in Arizona is a great place for any hiker to get their foot in the door.
Length of Hike: 2.2-mile loop
Estimated Time of Hike: 1 hour
If you’re looking for an easy, relatively flat hike that takes less than an hour to complete yet gives you great exercise, Warpaint Loop is the trail for you. Despite having a small elevation gain of just under 150 feet, the scenic desert views are nothing short of spectacular. Like Wild Burro, children and leashed dogs are welcome. Bikers frequent this trail, however, so be sure to stay alert!
Length of Hike: 5.5-mile loop
Estimated Time of Hike: 3 hours
Dixie Mountain Loop will wind you through wildflowers, cacti and marvelous Sonoran Desert scenery as you ascend 1,200 feet to the peaks. The trail starts out with easy rolling hills, then increases in difficulty as you approach both summits. With plenty of clearly marked route options, you can choose the right hike for your skill level. Visit Dixie Mountain for a great workout, varying terrain and incredible views throughout.
Length of Hike: 3.6-mile loop
Estimated Time of Hike: 2 hours
The first mile of this South Mountain trail is a bit steep and challenging, but it’s quite doable for any moderate hiker. As you ascend more than 900 feet, you’ll discover interesting rock formations, tunnels, cacti, dry waterfalls and wildflowers.You’ll also squeeze through Fat Man’s Pass, a rugged, narrow passage that runs between two large boulders along the trail. Hidden Valley Trail will keep you on your toes with fun surprises at every turn. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
Length of Hike: 4.4-mile loop
Estimated Time of Hike: 2.5-3 hours
Gateway Loop is one of the most popular loop trails in Arizona, and for good reason. Take in the stunning natural beauty of the McDowell Sonoran preserve as you get your heart racing with a moderate incline and elevation gain. Although this trail is kid- and dog-friendly, the trail can sometimes be rocky and busy. Wear thick soles, be mindful of your pet’s paws and, to avoid heavy traffic, hike in the morning or on weekdays.
Length of Hike: 1.7-mile loop
Estimated Time of Hike: 1 hour
Marcos de Niza Trail is a hidden gem of a hike, located at the Pima Canyon entrance of South Mountain. While the loop is relatively short, the incline can be quite steep. You’ll also briefly run into a spot that requires some beginner climbing. However, adults, kids and dogs alike will enjoy this trail if they’re ready for a quick ascent that yields beautiful 360-degree views of the city.
Catch the sunset here as you watch planes fly into Sky Harbor and spot your favorite Phoenix destinations, like Camelback Mountain, Papago Park, downtown Phoenix, downtown Tempe and more. If you’re looking for a quick city hike that offers an excellent workout and even better views, Marcos de Niza is for you.
Length of Hike: 4.6-miles out-and-back
Estimated Time of Hike: 3 hours
When it comes to Arizona hiking trails, Fremont Saddle in Gold Canyon is a crowd favorite. In fact, it’s earned a perfect 5-star rating with more than 2,500 reviews on AllTrails.com. This gentle, yet continuous, uphill hike will elevate you 1,300 feet for an unbeatable view of the Superstition Mountains. Enjoy scenic river crossings, waterfalls, wildflowers and sightings of Weaver‘s Needle from start to finish.
Length of Hike: 5.5 miles out-and-back
Estimated Time of Hike: 4 hours
The Flatiron Hike via the Siphon Draw Trail is a challenging out-and-back Arizona hiking trail nestled within the beautiful Superstition Mountains. But don’t let the sprawling wildflowers, unexpected waterfalls and breathtaking scenery fool you — here, you’ll also endure steep hills and challenging bouldering maneuvers as you climb over 2,600 feet to the summit.
One reviewer on AllTrails.com claims, “You’ll love this hike like a toxic relationship. It’s daunting, challenging and draining, but no matter what, you’ll come out of it a stronger person once you’re done.” Are you up for the challenge?
Length of Hike: 2.4 miles out-and-back
Estimated Time of Hike: 2 hours
Camelback Mountain is not only one of Phoenix’s most unmistakable landmarks, but it’s also an advanced hiker’s paradise. This 2,700-foot mountain towers over the city and is aptly named for its resemblance to a camel’s hump and head. The Echo Canyon Trail is short but strenuous, so prepare for an intense workout with some rock scrambling before you reach the peak. The path is also subject to extreme heat and parking is limited, so plan accordingly.
The original Cholla trailhead, which served as a longer, more gradual route to the summit until March 2020, is currently closed. However, a new entrance off Invergordon Road with accessible water and bathrooms is scheduled to open in summer 2022. Whichever challenge you choose this year, be sure to pack lots of water and wear your best high-traction shoes. This hike takes plenty of guts and stamina, but the view from the top makes it all worth it.
Now that you’ve explored the best trails in Arizona, learn how to get even more out of the great outdoors with our collection of fitness blogs!
Andree Jones, DO is a primary care sports medicine physician with District Medical Group and Assistant Professor of Family Medicine at the University of Arizona-Phoenix and Creighton University schools of medicine. She currently practices at Valleywise Health-Orthopedic Department. She is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine in both Family Medicine and Sports Medicine. …
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