It is well-known that the state of Arizona has many popular hiking trails. While it might be blazing hot and full of tumbleweeds in the summer, the rest of the year is near perfect for a good scenic hike. The diverse landscape and desert oasis has something for everyone. The top scenic hikes in Arizona are right here.
1. Double Butte Loop and Hole-in-the-Rock Trail in Papago Park
Distance: 2.3-mile loop (Double Butte) and 825 feet out and back (Hole-in-the-Rock)
Difficulty Rating: Easy
Papago Park is located in the heart of Phoenix. It is filled with beautiful red sandstone formations that are always photo worthy. This trail is so easy, you can bring the whole family. You can bring pets and bikes too. If you head over to the east side of the park you can climb up some fun, rocky stairs to take a peek through the landmark of this park, the Hole-In-The-Rock.
2. Blevins Trail in Usery Mountain Regional Park
Distance: 3-mile loop
Difficulty Rating: Easy
Perhaps this one will feel more like a stroll, the Blevins Trail in Usery Mountain Regional Park will fill your camera full of beautiful Sonoran Desert scenery. While this trail does get busy from time to time, it is great for the whole family, leashed dogs and a pace suitable to you.
3. Waterfall Trail in White Tank Mountain Regional Park
Distance: 1.8 miles out and back
Difficulty Rating: Easy
Imagine a beautiful desert hike with a waterfall at the end! If you head to White Tank Mountain Regional Park your imagination can take a break as you enjoy an easy hike to a small waterfall. It is best to go after a good rain to see the waterfall in all its glory. You will also enjoy saguaros along the way, ancient petroglyph carvings, and rocky outcroppings in this beautiful piece of Sonoran Desert beauty.
4. Judith Tunnell Accessible Trails in South Mountain Park/Preserve
Distance: .5-mile loop
Difficulty Rating: Easy
This wheelchair friendly hike is paved for two half-mile loops. Each loop has water fountains, shaded ramada and benches to rest for enjoying the scenery.
5. Hidden Valley via Mormon Trail in South Mountain Park/Preserve
Distance: 4 miles out and back
Difficulty Rating: Medium
The Mormon Trail at the South Mountain Park will be a little tougher of a hike. Parts of the path are steep and challenging. The reward for your physical effort will include breathtaking views, desert flora and endless rock formations. Squeeze through Fat Man’s Pass if you dare and enjoy the beautiful nature of this trek.
6. Pinnacle Peak Trail in Pinnacle Peak Park
Distance: 3.5 miles out and back
Difficulty Rating: Medium
Pinnacle Peak Trail is a popular, 3.5 mile trail. The views are perfect for picture taking and wildlife can be spotted all around. The paths are well-maintained along this 2,750 foot incline. Enjoy the educational signale all the way as well.
7. Lookout Mountain Summit Trail in Phoenix Mountains Preserve
Distance: 1.2 miles out and back
Difficulty Rating: Medium
While the Lookout Mountain Summit Trail is a shorter trail, it will still require some physical activity. This medium rated trail will have you climbing more than 450 feet in 1.2 miles. Step atop for the scenic views you are desiring.
8. Echo Canyon Trail on Camelback Mountain
Distance: 2.4 miles out and back
Difficulty Rating: Hard
One of the highest hikes in Phoenix, this trail might have the best sights on the whole list. Be prepared as it is a very popular trail. Climb up 1,280 feet and take your time to get in the desert scenery and city views below you.
9. Tom’s Thumb Trailhead in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Distance: 4.6 miles out and back
Difficulty Rating: Hard
This trail is not for the faint of heart. You will want to lace up your best hiking shoes and be ready for a heart pumping time. As you gain elevation you will take notice of upland boulder fields and desert flora.
You will likely give this hike a thumb’s up at the end.
10. Siphon Draw Trail to Flatiron in Lost Dutchman State Park
Distance: 6 miles out and back
Difficulty Rating: Hard
Another more challenging trail, Siphon Draw Trail will not make it easy on you. Head to Lost Dutchman State Park for an exhilarating climb through the Superstition Mountains. Be prepared as you will end up needing to use all fours to get through some parts of this hike. Once you have made it through to the top, there is yet another rugged, unmarked trail. Once you are to the flat clearing, the views await you.
