Hikes in Arizona
Where to Hike in Arizona
Activities in Arizona
Arizona is a famous sun destination and a superb place to visit between autumn and spring. You’ll find the world-famous Grand Canyon here, but that’s far from all. While the state is known for its golf and pools, it’s also packed with outdoor adventure and some of the most extraordinary landscapes in the United States.
Most visitors come first for the Grand Canyon, and rightly so: exploring this incredible national park on foot is one of the great hiking experiences in the country. Equally beautiful is the red-rock country around Sedona, at its best in spring and autumn, with striking natural features and lovely towns to explore.
We also love the trails around Phoenix, where the city of Scottsdale makes a great base, with fine hotels and patios made for an outdoor meal as the sun sets over the mountains. Add in the peaks and pine forests around Flagstaff, the saguaro-studded desert near Tucson, and the painted badlands of the Petrified Forest, and Arizona offers just about every kind of hiking there is.
What’s New in 2027
- Arizona is really two hiking seasons at two elevations. The low desert around Phoenix, Tucson and the Tonto is dangerously hot from about May to September, often well over 40°C, so hike there from mid-October to April, start at dawn, and carry far more water than you think you need. The high country is the opposite: Flagstaff, the San Francisco Peaks and the Grand Canyon’s North Rim are cool in summer and snowbound in winter, so save those summits and the North Rim for roughly May to October. Watch, too, for July-to-September monsoon storms, which bring flash floods to slot canyons and washes across the state.
- Most of the marquee areas charge a fee, and some need a shuttle. Arizona’s hikes span different agencies, each with its own pass. The Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest national parks charge a vehicle entrance fee (or use an America the Beautiful pass; note non-US visitors now pay an added surcharge at the Grand Canyon, which has no timed-entry system). Around Sedona you’ll need a Red Rock Pass to park at most trailheads, and in the busy spring and autumn months a mandatory shuttle serves the top trailheads like Cathedral Rock and Soldier Pass, where private vehicles aren’t allowed during shuttle hours. The Tonto National Forest needs a Tonto Pass at developed sites. Check what each area requires, and arrive early.
- Come ready for heat, rattlesnakes and the big-name summits. Heat, not wildlife, is Arizona’s real danger, so water is non-negotiable, and peaks like Camelback and the Grand Canyon’s rim-to-river trails see rescues and deaths every year, so don’t underestimate them (the Park Service warns against hiking rim to river and back in a single day). Rattlesnakes, Gila monsters and scorpions live across the state, so watch where you put your hands and feet in the warmer months and give any snake a wide berth.
The Best Hikes in Arizona
- Humphreys Peak Hike (Flagstaff): A bucket-list climb to the highest point in Arizona at 12,633 ft, with stiff elevation gain but no real technical difficulty in summer, and an expansive view over the Kachina Peaks Wilderness. A winter ascent needs snow gear and route-finding.
- South Kaibab Trail (Grand Canyon): One of the great, and hardest, hikes in the Grand Canyon, dropping steeply from the rim with jaw-dropping views the whole way. Best done over two days with a backcountry permit at Bright Angel Campground rather than as a brutal single-day out-and-back.
- South Rim Trail (Grand Canyon): The most popular walk in the park: a largely flat rim path linking Grand Canyon Village with Hermits Rest, with continuous views over the canyon and the Colorado River. Easy, and reachable on the free park shuttle.
- Cathedral Rock Trail (Sedona): Perhaps the most popular hike in Sedona, a short but steep scramble up to a saddle among the towering red-rock spires. In peak season you’ll reach the trailhead by shuttle. Not one for small children or dogs.
- Devil’s Bridge Hike (Sedona): A hugely popular hike out to the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area, with the classic photo from atop the bridge. Expect crowds, an early start, and a longer walk in unless you have a high-clearance 4x4.
- Camelback Mountain via Echo Canyon and Cholla Trail (Phoenix): Phoenix’s signature summit, a steep, rocky climb to the top of the city’s tallest peak with a huge urban-and-mountain panorama. It’s genuinely demanding, with rescues every season, so save it for cooler months and carry plenty of water.
- Bear Canyon to Seven Falls Trail (Tucson): A Tucson gem below Thimble Peak in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness, hiking among saguaros and prickly pears to a series of pools at Seven Falls. Start early and skip it in the summer heat.
- Blue Mesa Trail (Petrified Forest): A short, easy paved loop through the Petrified Forest’s blue-and-white striped badlands, past giant fossils of petrified wood. A perfect, scenery-packed introduction to the park for any age.
- Wave Cave Trail (Tonto National Forest): A fun desert hike in the Superstition Mountains to a cave with a curling “wave” of rock at its mouth, one of Arizona’s quirkiest photo spots. Moderate, with a short steep finish; go early to beat the heat and crowds.
- Inner Basin Trail (Flagstaff): A gentler high-country classic near Flagstaff, climbing through aspen forest into a basin ringed by Arizona’s tallest peaks. Spectacular in autumn when the aspens turn gold, and a cool escape from the desert heat below.
When Is the Best Time to Hike in Arizona?
It depends entirely on elevation. For the low desert, around Phoenix, Tucson and the Tonto, aim for mid-October to April, when the heat eases and the trails are safe; avoid the searing summer, and always carry plenty of water. In the high country, around Flagstaff, the San Francisco Peaks and the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, summer (roughly May to October) is prime, with the higher trails snowbound and often inaccessible in winter. Sedona and the mid-elevation red-rock country are loveliest in spring and autumn, which is also when the mandatory shuttles run. Wherever you are, watch the summer monsoon from July to September, when storms can bring sudden flash floods to canyons and washes.
Plan Your Trip to Arizona
Arizona is one of the highlights of hiking in the United States. If you would rather have the planning handled, browse our Guided tours in the United States.
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Route guides for Hiking in Arizona
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South Kaibab Trail Route Guide
The South Kaibab Trail is one of the hardest hikes in the Grand Canyon National Park and makes for an unforgettable challenge if you’re up to the task! You’ll be provided with incredible views over the park for most of the way and then enjoy some backcountry camping at the scenic Bright Angel Campground.
Devil’s Bridge Hike Route Guide
Devil’s Bridge is a natural sandstone bridge in Sedona, Arizona. This geological feature is the star on this very popular moderate trail. Climb out onto the bridge and gaze over a great view of the iconic red rocks of Sedona. This is a fun hike for most ages and definitely one to bring a camera for.
This hike is either 2.0mi long or about 45.0mi long depending on which trailhead you start at. With a 4X4 vehicle, you can drive up to the actual trailhead for the hike for a shorter walk. Without a 4X4, you’ll need to hike up one of two access roads. This guide starts from the Dry Creek Road trailhead, which is where most hikers without a 4X4 vehicle start (those with one can drive up Dry Creek Road). Expect heavy traffic on this very popular trail. Arriving early is a must in the busy season (April-May and October).
Water Wheel Falls Hike Route Guide
Water Wheel Falls is a hike in the Tonto National Forest near Payson that has become increasingly popular because of its excellent swimming opportunities. The trail was named for an old water wheel you can see from the trailhead, and the route follows the East Verde River to a gorge used by cliff jumpers and a short waterfall into a swimming hole.
There are lots of points along this route where you can take a swim, but the swimming hole at the confluence of the two creeks is the best spot. This easy hike might not be well-marked, but it’s an exceptionally fun adventure for families or for any hiker on a hot Arizona day. Small children might need a hand on some of the rockier parts of the trail
Tumamoc Hill Hike Route Guide
Tumamoc Hill is one of the most popular hikes in Tucson thanks to its great city views, relatively short length, and night hiking opportunities. The route is paved, which is a plus for hikers who prefer or require even footing. Because Tumamoc Hill is on university property, it’s the only hike in the Tucson Mountain Range that is open for night hiking. If you want to watch the sunset or sunrise, this is the place to be!
The route is 3.1mi long, but some hikers turn around at the midpoint instead of going the entire way. Expect a 5ft paved route with plenty of signage. Some parts of the trail are steep, which could make using a stroller or wheelchair very difficult without some assistance. Overall we rate this trail as moderately difficult. If you come in hot weather, please ensure you’ve got lots of hydration and some sun protection with you.
Humphreys Peak Hike Route Guide
Humphreys Peak is one to put on the top of your Arizona hiking bucket list, as this mountain is the tallest point in the entire state at 12633ft. It’s a challenging route with stiff elevation gain, but most strong hikers can find their way to the top thanks to the lack of technical challenges (aside from some light scrambling) and the clearly defined trail. From the top, you’ll enjoy an expansive view of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness.
Humphreys Peak can be hiked year-round, but the winter months make for a more demanding climb. You’ll need snowshoes and you may benefit from packing ice axes and microspikes, too. Navigating the route is more difficult in the winter when the trail is covered in snow. Try the summer ascent first, which is generally easier to follow and more suitable for less experienced hikers. Bring a camera for that top-of-the-state view!
Blue Mesa Trail Route Guide
Blue Mesa Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Arizona’s Petrified Forest National Park. With dazzling views of the neatly striped hills and mesas, giant fossils of petrified wood, and a convenient paved trail, this hike is a great pick for hikers of any skill level and age in the park. It’s a short loop, but it definitely packs in the scenery. Use this as a first introduction to the park since it’s right in the middle of the park road, or enjoy it on its own. Expect heavy traffic on this route.
The Blue Mesa Trail is best done in the morning when the sun is at a low slant. This illuminates the colors of the hills and prevents shadowing from the hills on the western side of this loop (which you’d experience in the afternoon). Don’t stress if you can’t do this hike in the morning, though, it’s just a suggestion!
Camelback Mountain via Echo Canyon and Cholla Trail Route Guide
Camelback Mountain is Phoenix’s most dominant peak, begging to be climbed as it rises above the city, resembling a camel laying down. This approach to the mountain is a point-to-point route, but you can simply double the distance and climb it as an out and back if you don’t have a car shuttle. The beginning of your hike starts from the Echo Canyon Trailhead, following Echo Canyon Trail up the west side of the mountain, descending via Cholla Trail. You’ll have an incredible view of the city and the surrounding mountains since this is the tallest peak in the Phoenix area.
Camelback Mountain is not a beginner or kid-friendly hike. There are multiple rescues on this mountain every season and hikers have died from dehydration and accidents up here. If you’re a new hiker or you’re not used to hiking in desert conditions, save this one for the future.
Bright Angel Trail Route Guide
Completing the Bright Angel Trail in one-day is only for the fittest of all hikers. We debated including this hike, as it is so dangerously tough. Better yet consider getting a backcountry camping permit and staying at the Bright Angel Campground! Even though it's a challenging hike, we think the Bright Angel Trail is one of the best hikes in the USA.
Cathedral Rock Trail Route Guide
Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular hiking trails in Sedona… Maybe even the most popular! This hike offers gorgeous scenery, getting you up close to one of the region’s most recognizable sandstone features. This trail has the magical energy that so many parts of Sedona do, and you’ll be in awe at the natural beauty of nature’s church.
This hike is short but difficult for some, with hands-on sections that require some climbing. We don’t recommend this trail for small children and dogs will likely struggle to make it up.
Expect heavy traffic on this very popular trail. Arriving early (before 7:30 AM) is a must in the busy season (April-May and October), especially since the parking lots are small. You can also reach Cathedral Rock from Baldwin and Templeton trails for a quieter experience.
Wave Cave Trail Route Guide
You probably didn’t think you could surf in Arizona, did you? The Wave Cave is a unique cave where a “wave” of rock protrudes out into the cave opening. It’s one of the many fascinating rock formations and caves that make Arizona’s landscape so fun to explore. The hike to the cave is moderate, with a few short, steep sections. Most hikers will be able to complete this trail.
If you want the perfect photo op in the cave, try hiking early in the morning before the route gets busy. You’ll also want to bring plenty of water and prepare for the heat of the desert, perhaps avoiding hiking from June through September altogether if you’re not used to the temperatures in this part of the world.
Tanque Verde Falls Trail Route Guide
Tanque Verde Falls Trail is a popular hike near Tucson that climbs up the Tanque Verde Wash to an 80-foot waterfall. Along the way, you can take advantage of other small waterfalls and swimming holes. Most of this trail is quite easy and kid-friendly. Near the end, there’s some climbing over boulders required to reach the waterfall directly. Those unable to climb or those with young kids can skip the end of the hike in favor of a picnic at one of the smaller pools on the way.
As with all hikes in the Arizona desert, some months of the year may be too hot to safely adventure outside. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and head home if you start to feel unwell or overheated. Starting early in the day can help you finish your hike before the heat of the day. Finally, avoid this hike if there’s a flash flood warning or heavy rain in the forecast.
Lava River Cave Hike Route Guide
Over 700,000 years ago, the Lava River Caves in Flagstaff were formed when molten rock erupted from a volcanic vent near Hart Prairie. The lava flow cooled from the outside in, while the center continued to flow, creating the hollowed-out caves that are present today. Evidence of this molten-hot activity can be found in the stone icicles that hang from the ceiling, which were formed when blasts of heat melted the rock ceiling, allowing it to drip down as it cooled.
The hike itself is very unique. You’ll climb down the rock into the cave, which is pitch-black without the help of headlamps and flashlights. Consistently about 42 degrees year-round, it’s a dark, cool environment to explore. Sturdy boots are a must due to the sharp rock footing, and you definitely need to come prepared with two or three sources of light. A dead battery down here will leave you over a mile from the nearest light source.
Painted Desert Rim Trail Route Guide
The Painted Desert Rim Trail is potentially the best available viewpoint of the Painted Desert, a unique geological feature that extends through the Petrified Forest National Park towards the Grand Canyon. The Painted Desert is an undulating desert of orange, green, and beige formed by the erosion of the sandstone deposits left by a Triassic river system. This trail is flat, easy, and suitable for all. Expect heavy traffic.
This route follows part of the rim of a mesa that juts out into the desert. The rugged landscape changes a bit with the seasons; you’ll see more greenery after heavy rain, potential snow in the wintertime, and a hot, dry expanse in the summertime. One constant out here is the wind! Bring a windbreaker and keep your hats in the car or you just might lose them in the desert’s near-constant wind.
Papago Park Golf Course Loop Route Guide
Papago Park is a popular recreation area just minutes from downtown Phoenix, and the adjacent golf course is an equally popular spot for residents and snowbirds to get a round in. Papago Park was a reservation in past years, then a fish hatchery in the Great Depression, a prisoner of war camp in WWII, and a VA hospital. Talk about a storied past! Today, it offers hiking opportunities and access to the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Gardens.
The Papago Park Golf Course Loop circles the west end of the park and the golf course grounds. It’s a flat, relaxed route that makes for an ideal morning stroll or Sunday afternoon outing with family and friends, especially at sunrise.
Dripping Springs Route Guide
This less trodden trail leaves from Hermits Rest and bring you to a secluded and shaded spring that seeps down from a hole in the roof of a small overhang. This hike gets very little sun, and the solitude of the picturesque spring is well worth the physical effort!
Chapel Trail Route Guide
The Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona is an iconic sight. This church was designed by Marguerite Brunswig, a local rancher and sculptor who studied under Frank Lloyd Wright, the famous architect who aided in the design of the church. The Chapel Trail begins from the chapel and takes you around East Twin Butte optionally extending to the Chicken Point viewpoint.
This hike is easy and family-friendly. The trail ends at a junction with Little Horse Trail, making it easy to continue further if you want a longer hike. Make sure you stop into the chapel to admire the stained glass windows and dramatic view.
Box Canyon Trail Route Guide
When the temperatures start to soar, you need a chilled-out afternoon in a refreshing swimming hole. The Box Canyon Trail is a quick 0.8mi hike that leads you down into a box canyon with a swimming hole in it. The red granite walls are gorgeous and the water feels perfect when the sun is shining.
This route is good for families, with only a bit of steep climbing needed to get down into the canyon. Additionally, it’s still a bit of a hidden gem that doesn’t see much traffic. You might just get the place to yourself, which is always a plus.
Note that the parking area and trailhead for this hike can both be tough to find. Bring a GPS track or a map with you to help you find your way.
Bear Canyon to Seven Falls Trail Route Guide
Bear Canyon to Seven Falls Trail is a real gem. This 8.3mi moderately difficult trail is located at the base of Thimble Peak in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness on the northeast edge of Tucson. It’s excellent for its ease of access from the city and for its diverse, beautiful terrain. You’ll hike next to towering saguaros and prickly pears, witness the area’s astounding bird population fly by, and end your hike at the Broadmoor Seven Falls. At the falls, there is a series of gorgeous pools that can be used to cool off.
This canyon can reach scorching temperatures in the middle of the day. Start your hike early, bring plenty of water, and avoid hiking this route in the summertime if at all possible. Since this is such a popular hike, midweek visits are recommended if possible.
Buffalo Park Trail Route Guide
Buffalo Park might just be one of the prettiest parks in all of Arizona, and Flagstaff residents can stroll its wildflower-lined walkways without needing to leave the city. In fact, this park is accessible from most parts of the city without too much hassle. Buffalo Park sits atop a mesa with a wonderful view of Elden Mountain, and the Buffalo Park Trail is a very easy loop that allows users of all ages and skill levels the chance to appreciate the park.
Buffalo Park is one of Flagstaff’s busiest and most-used parks, and as a result, the trails are very nicely maintained. They’re suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, as well as bikes and dogs. The park is open throughout the year, so stop by whenever you like. We especially enjoy exploring it when the wildflowers are blooming.
Crystal Forest Trail Route Guide
The Crystal Forest Trail is a must-do hike in Petrified Forest National Park, especially if you’re really after the petrified wood fossils this park is known for. This route takes you past hundreds of massive fossils left from trees that lived over 200 million years ago. The petrified wood looks almost like gemstones, with gorgeous colors and patterns visible on the wood. The hike itself is very easy and straightforward, and it’s suitable for all skill levels and ages.
When you’re observing the fossils, remember that they’re meant to stay in the park. Theft of the fossils is prosecuted, and yes, removing any amount of petrified wood from the park is considered theft. Leave these fascinating fossils as you found them, resist the urge to touch them, and make sure they stay as they are for generations to come.
North Mountain National Trail Route Guide
North Mountain Trail leads you to the top of 2060ft North Mountain in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve north of Phoenix. With the preserve stretching east and southeast, the views on this hike perfectly combine the city and the mountains. It’s a fantastic in-between hike that can challenge strong beginners but still satisfy stronger hikers, too. This isn’t a great pick for young families because of the light scrambling required, but it’s great for hikers who want to ease into using their hands on a low-consequence trail.
If you can time your summit for sunset, you’ll be awash in a golden glow. It’s an amazing experience! Parts of this trail are paved, but the paving comes after a rocky section, so we can’t consider this trail stroller or wheelchair-friendly. Bring water with you and try to hike before or after the heat of the day.
South Rim Trail Route Guide
The South Rim trail is easily the most popular hike in the park – it’s generally flat, connecting Grand Canyon Village with Hermits Rest Point and boasts fantastic views of the Grand Canyon and Colorado River.
Piestewa Peak and Freedom Loop Hike Route Guide
Piestewa Peak is the second-tallest mountain in Phoenix after Camelback. From the top of this peak, you’ll have a jaw-dropping, expansive view of the city below and the mountains that surround it. The Piestewa Peak and Freedom Loop takes you to the top and then around the trail that encircles the mountain, which tends to be a bit less busy and quite scenic. You’ll do best on this hike if you embrace a sense of community, since this is a very popular hike.
There’s some interesting history behind the name of this mountain; read on to learn. To prepare for this hike, get an early start, stay out of the heat, bring water, and leave dogs and children at home. Expect a tough but beautiful adventure.
Bell Rock Hike Route Guide
Bell Rock is one of Sedona’s most recognizable rock formations, and the hike there is a gorgeous, popular trek. Bell Rock can be reached via a quick 0.8mi trail, which this guide will follow. Longer loops can include Courthouse Butte, Baby Bell, and other nearby points of interest. This guide details the most direct route to Bell Rock beginning from Bell Rock Trailhead. This is an especially nice hike during sunrise and sunset.
This hike is family-friendly and short. You’ll need to be able to complete very short sections with hands-on climbing. The further you go up the rock, the more climbing you’ll need to do, but the views are still fantastic from the most accessible viewpoints of the trail. This route gets busy, so arrive early if you can.
Sweetwater Wetlands Loop Route Guide
The Sweetwater Wetlands Loop leads you a short distance around one of the most important functional, environmental, and educational sites of the City of Tucson’s reclaimed water system. The Sweetwater Wetlands were constructed in 1996 to handle backwash water from the reclaimed water plant. Now, the site is a wetland that exclusively uses reclaimed water. The entire wetland has 2.5mi of trails, but this loop covers a quick 1.0mi section. Around 1000ft of the wetland pathways are paved and ADA-approved for wheelchair users.
This quick little nature walk is suitable for all ages and all skill levels. It’s flat, either paved or on 3.4-inch gravel, and easy to navigate. Note that dogs, horses, and bikes are not allowed in this area.
Fatman’s Loop Trail Route Guide
Fatman’s Loop Trail is one of Flagstaff’s most popular trails. This moderate 2.4mi loop climbs along the eastern slopes of Elden Mountain, which is a main focal point from many parts of the city. The coolest parts of the trail are the rocks and trees, as you’ll see rocks with face-like caves in them. Along the route, you will climb between rocks tipped over towards each other, and make your way up smooth stone steps. It’s an interesting peek at the volcanic past of the Flagstaff area and lots of fun for kids and adults alike.
The trees on this route are excellent, with several different species displaying their individual quirks. Take the time to revel in your surroundings on this loop and you’ll find lots to appreciate. The hike itself is moderately difficult, but still suitable for most skill levels. We do advise bringing a downloaded GPS track to help at unmarked junctions.
Blue Forest Trail Route Guide
Blue Forest Trail is one of the most popular and historic hikes in Arizona’s Petrified Forest National Park. Originally constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the trail connects the main road near the Teepees to the also popular Blue Mesa Trail. The trail shows off the blue and white striped badlands and petrified wood with constantly evolving views. The park’s landscape is one of a kind, and this trail is an ideal one to experience it from.
This hike is moderately difficult and is suitable for most skill levels and ages. If you hike this route in the summer, bring plenty of water. Adventurous hikers can use this trail to connect to the Blue Mesa Loop for a longer hike. Expect moderate traffic.
Verde Hot Springs Hike Route Guide
The Verde Hot Springs hike takes you along an easy trail to a hot spring at an abandoned resort. Perched along the Verde River, the pools were constructed in the 1920s when this area was a tourist attraction. A fire in the 1960s destroyed the resort, but the foundation and pools survived. Abandoned ever since, the pools are open for public use and offer a unique spot to get a soak in.
The hike to the hot spring is quite easy. It’s about two and a half miles long with only about 200ft of elevation gain. There are concrete steps that lead down to the springs in the final few feet of the route. Hikers of all skill levels will be able to complete it. You will need a high-clearance vehicle to reach the trailhead, though.
Shoshone Point Trail Route Guide
The Shoshone Point Trail is a fantastic less travelled easy hike to gain some much-needed solitude from the crowds of Hermits Rest and Grand Canyon Village. A mostly flat route leads you out to a magnificent viewpoint that you will most likely be sharing with under a dozen people!
Sabino Tram Road Route Guide
The Sabino Tram Road through the Sabino Canyon is a stellar hike. This 7.4mi moderately difficult trail is located on the north side of Saddleback and Thimble Peak in the Pusch Ridge Wilderness on the northeast edge of Tucson. This hike is excellent for its ease of access from the city and for its diverse, beautiful terrain. You’ll hike next to towering saguaros and prickly pears, witness the area’s astounding bird population fly by, and be able to appreciate the scenic canyon.
This canyon can reach scorching temperatures in the middle of the day. Start your hike early, bring plenty of water, and avoid hiking this route in the summertime if at all possible. Since this is such a popular hike, midweek visits are recommended if possible.
Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte Loop Route Guide
Bell Rock is one of Sedona’s most recognizable rock formations, and the hike there is a gorgeous, popular trek. Right beside it is Courthouse Butte, a large formation dominating the landscape south of Gibraltar Rock. This loop hike takes you around both, giving you 4.0mi of incredible views and the chance to appreciate these landmarks from every angle.
This route is busy, so arrive early if you can. There are plenty of extensions that can be made using the huge network of trails in this area. You can hop up Bell Rock, scramble Baby Bell, or venture over to Gibraltar Rock. This trail is suitable for all skill levels and ages.
If you just want to see Bell Rock on a short, easy hike, check out our Bell Rock route guide.
Treasure Trail and Siphon Draw Loop Route Guide
The Treasure Trail and Siphon Draw Loop is a 3.0mi hike in Tonto National Forest with amazing desert scenery. This route takes you through a dramatic basin lined by low granite mountains, and you can also use this route to climb The Flatiron. Even if you want to stay on the easier paths, this is a hike with incredible scenery. It offers a lot without being too difficult or demanding.
There are lots of trails in this area aside from this loop, so we recommend consulting a map if you’re unfamiliar with the network of routes to avoid getting lost. The good thing is that hikers who want to extend their adventures can make use of these trails to keep hiking.
Lockett Meadow Inner Basin Loop Route Guide
The Lockett Meadow Inner Basin Loop leads you through a gorgeous basin in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness underneath some of Arizona’s tallest mountains–Humphreys Peak, Aubineau Peak, and Rees Peak. With those kinds of mountains surrounding you, the views have to be good. This route leads you through a meadow that’s easily accessible from the Lockett Meadow Campground, making it a perfect trip for campers.
This route is moderately difficult, but we’d say it’s on the easier side of moderate. Hikers of most skill levels and ages will be able to complete this route. It’s especially brilliant in the fall when the aspens at the start of the route are alive with bright color. The drive to the trailhead might be the most intimidating part of the whole trip; buses, trailers, and RVs are not recommended up here.
Old Jasper Forest Road Route Guide
The Old Jasper Forest Road is an off-the-beaten-path hike in Petrified Forest National Park. It shows off the petrified wood fossils this park is known for in addition to the interesting mesas and rugged desert landscapes that define this park. This hike is easy and good for all skill levels, but you’ll want to have a downloaded route available to you to help with navigation.
Lookout Mountain Summit Trail Route Guide
Lookout Mountain is an isolated peak in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, located north of the city. The mountain offers an excellent view of the other peaks of the preserve, which are just south of it, and the city and its suburbs sprawling in all directions. The hike to the top of Lookout Mountain is a short one, but it’s no-nonsense, requiring a bit of light scrambling over rocky sections. It’s a good pick for beginners who want to try out a more adventurous trail that’s still forgiving.
This hike is dog-friendly, but it might be tough for pups to get all the way to the top on those rocky sections. Make sure you bring lots of water with you and plan your hike outside the heat of the day. Might we suggest sunrise or sunset?
Bright Angel Point Route Guide
This popular trail leads from the North Rim Visitors Centre to the scenic Bright Angel Point over a paved path with minimal elevation gain. This is a perfect short trip for all levels of hikers, offering spectacular panoramic views.
Horton Creek Trail Route Guide
Horton Creek Trail is a 8.6mi route in the Tonto National Forest that sees heavy traffic. This is a popular hike with everyone from families to solo hikers to those with dogs. The trail follows along Horton Creek, taking you past waterfalls, small pools, and through trees.
This is a very relaxing hike, and despite the elevation gain and distance, it feels fairly gradual until a bigger climb at the end of the trail, which can be skipped in favor of an easier trip. The atmosphere is so serene and the natural beauty so apparent that you won’t notice how far you’re hiking or how you’re climbing.
We like this route on warm days when you can dip your feet in the creek to cool off. This is also a fun hike for those with dogs who love water.
Seven Sacred Pools via Soldier Pass Trail Route Guide
The Seven Sacred Pools in Sedona are a set of trickling blue pools amid the vibrant red rock between the Oak Creek Mountains and Sedona’s desert. Deep green juniper trees frame the site, reminding you just how much the landscape can change the closer you are to water. The pools provide an important water source for local wildlife and a spiritual scene for visitors and locals. Take Soldier Pass Trail to access the pools via a 1.1mi easy hike. This trail is suitable for all ages and skill levels.
We recommend downloading your GPS track ahead of time as the trail can become a touch confusing where there isn’t clear signage. This area is shared by Jeep traffic, so hike with your eyes and ears open. Note that the parking for this trail is closed from 6 PM until 8 AM each day and there is no alternate parking during that time.
Sentinel Peak Hike Route Guide
The Sentinel Peak hike near Tucson is a quick win, offering panoramic views of Tucson and the surrounding mountains on an easy 1.7mi loop. This hike is ideal if you want a quick leg-stretcher, are taking the kids out, or if you want some time outside but can’t go far or be gone for too long. The elevation gain is mostly gentle and the route is paved and easy to follow.
Sentinel Peak is a prominent landmark. It’s also known as “A” Mountain for its University of Arizona logo on the mountain, which was built by students in 1916. Most days, the mountain sees hundreds of hikers and bikers making their way up the road that encircles the mountain’s peak.
Inner Basin Trail Route Guide
The Lockett Meadow Inner Basin is one of the top hikes near Flagstaff. The Inner Basin Trail leads you through a stunning aspen forest to a basin in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness. The basin is tucked underneath some of Arizona’s tallest mountains–Humphreys Peak, Aubineau Peak, and Rees Peak. This route leads you through a meadow that’s accessible from the Lockett Meadow Campground, making it a perfect trip for campers. Take note that this approach is an out-and-back, and is shorter and more direct than the Lockett Meadow Inner Basin Loop, which you can take if you want a longer hike with a different return trip.
This route is moderate, but it’s definitely on the easier end of moderate. Most skill levels and ages will be able to complete this route without difficulty. This is a very popular hike in the fall when the aspens at the beginning of the hike are in their full fall colors. The drive to the trailhead might be the most intimidating part of the whole trip; buses, trailers, and RVs are not recommended up here.
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