Top 15 Hiking Trails in Phoenix
Hiking Trails in Phoenix offer numerous opportunities to explore the Sonoran Desert's stunning landscapes. With an extensive network of trails, hikers of all levels can enjoy a diverse range of terrains and sceneries. Popular locations include South Mountain Park and Preserve, Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Pima Canyon Trailhead, Echo Canyon Trailhead, and Mormon Trailhead. Discover the natural beauty of Phoenix through its exceptional hiking trails.
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- 1. Phoenix Mountains Preserve
- 2. Echo Canyon Trailhead
- 3. South Mountain Park and Preserve
- 4. Mormon Trailhead
- 5. Sonoran Preserve -Desert Vista Trailhead
- 6. Pima Canyon Trailhead
- 7. North Mountain Park
- 8. Piestewa Peak Park
- 9. 7th Ave Trailhead
- 10. Piestewa Peak Trailhead
- 11. Phoenix Mountain Preserve - 40th St. Trailhead
- 12. Camelback Hike
- 13. North Mountain - Trail 44
- 14. T-Bone Trail
- 15. Park And Hike
1. Phoenix Mountains Preserve
Piestewa Peak summit hike
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The Piestewa Peak Summit Trail is a popular hiking destination in Phoenix, Arizona. Despite being only a little over one mile in length, the trail is steep and challenging, featuring multiple switchbacks, jagged terrain, and modified steps. The trail's surface is a mix of gravel and rock, which can make the hike even more difficult. However, those who complete the hike are rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Piestewa Peak Summit Trail #300 is located within the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and is highly rated by hikers, with a 4.7-star rating from over 20,000 reviews. This out and back trail is 2.3 miles long and has an elevation gain of 1,151 feet. Its challenging features, such as steep inclines and uneven terrain, make it a great option for experienced hikers seeking a more strenuous workout. Despite its difficulties, the breathtaking views at the summit make the effort worthwhile, making it one of the best places to hike in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve.
The Piestewa Peak Summit Trail is a popular hiking destination in Phoenix, Arizona. Despite being only a little over one mile in length, the trail is steep and challenging, featuring multiple switchbacks, jagged terrain, and modified steps. The trail's surface is a mix of gravel and rock, which can make the hike even more difficult. However, those who complete the hike are rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Piestewa Peak Summit Trail #300 is located within the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and is highly rated by hikers, with a 4.7-star rating from over 20,000 reviews. This out and back trail is 2.3 miles long and has an elevation gain of 1,151 feet. Its challenging features, such as steep inclines and uneven terrain, make it a great option for experienced hikers seeking a more strenuous workout. Despite its difficulties, the breathtaking views at the summit make the effort worthwhile, making it one of the best places to hike in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve.
2. Echo Canyon Trailhead
Historic gravesite and ruins
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The lot at this location is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, providing a full day to enjoy the attractions. However, parking is extremely limited, so visitors should plan accordingly and arrive early to secure a spot.
This location is not recommended for those who are faint of heart, as it offers a challenging experience. It is recommended to bring water along to stay hydrated during the visit. Despite the difficulty, visitors are rewarded with stunning views, making the effort worthwhile.
The lot at this location is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, providing a full day to enjoy the attractions. However, parking is extremely limited, so visitors should plan accordingly and arrive early to secure a spot.
This location is not recommended for those who are faint of heart, as it offers a challenging experience. It is recommended to bring water along to stay hydrated during the visit. Despite the difficulty, visitors are rewarded with stunning views, making the effort worthwhile.
3. South Mountain Park and Preserve
Largest municipal park in the US
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South Mountain Park, located in the city of Phoenix, Arizona, is the world's largest municipal park, boasting over 16,00
South Mountain Park, located in the city of Phoenix, Arizona, is the world's largest municipal park, boasting over 16,00
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4. Mormon Trailhead
Junction of Mormon Trail and Maricopa Trail
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The Mormon Trailhead has a parking lot where the Mormon Loop Trail begins, leading hikers uphill immediately. Some hikers consider this trail moderate or difficult due to its incline. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and services on the Mormon Loop Trail, which allows them to experience the natural beauty of the area.
This trail offers a range of services and outdoor activities for visitors. Hikers should be prepared for an uphill climb from the parking lot at the Mormon Trailhead, which is why some rate it as moderate or challenging. The trail's reward is the chance to explore the area's natural beauty and enjoy the various activities and services available.
The Mormon Trailhead has a parking lot where the Mormon Loop Trail begins, leading hikers uphill immediately. Some hikers consider this trail moderate or difficult due to its incline. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and services on the Mormon Loop Trail, which allows them to experience the natural beauty of the area.
This trail offers a range of services and outdoor activities for visitors. Hikers should be prepared for an uphill climb from the parking lot at the Mormon Trailhead, which is why some rate it as moderate or challenging. The trail's reward is the chance to explore the area's natural beauty and enjoy the various activities and services available.
5. Sonoran Preserve -Desert Vista Trailhead
Dog-friendly trails
Sonoran Preserve's Desert Vista Trailhead: Your Gateway to Stunning Sunsets and City Views Begin your journey to Dixie Mountain's peak at the Desert Vista Trailhead, an ideal starting point for witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of a Sonoran sunset. Although the trail leading up may seem mundane at times, the awe-inspiring views from the summit will leave you speechless, making every step worth the effort.
Embarking on this hike involves following easy to moderate trails with subtle changes in elevation, ensuring a pleasant experience for hikers of all levels. As you ascend, marvel at the unparalleled bird's-eye view of the vibrant city below. Stay on track with the trail signage and make use of Google Maps to ensure a seamless, looped path back to your starting point. Begin your adventure at the Desert Vista Trailhead and let the majesty of the Sonoran landscape and the thrill of the climb leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul.
Embarking on this hike involves following easy to moderate trails with subtle changes in elevation, ensuring a pleasant experience for hikers of all levels. As you ascend, marvel at the unparalleled bird's-eye view of the vibrant city below. Stay on track with the trail signage and make use of Google Maps to ensure a seamless, looped path back to your starting point. Begin your adventure at the Desert Vista Trailhead and let the majesty of the Sonoran landscape and the thrill of the climb leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul.
6. Pima Canyon Trailhead
Access to scenic hiking trails
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The Pima Canyon trailhead is an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels, especially families and beginners. It offers great conditions for hiking, with easy parking and convenient access to the trail. The trail itself is challenging, but the reward is worth it - breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Pima Canyon trail does not disappoint. The trail features beautiful scenery, including stunning views of the desert and an uphill climb that will get your heart pumping. Despite its challenges, the trail is also suitable for beginners and families, making it a great option for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors.
The Pima Canyon trailhead is an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels, especially families and beginners. It offers great conditions for hiking, with easy parking and convenient access to the trail. The trail itself is challenging, but the reward is worth it - breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Pima Canyon trail does not disappoint. The trail features beautiful scenery, including stunning views of the desert and an uphill climb that will get your heart pumping. Despite its challenges, the trail is also suitable for beginners and families, making it a great option for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors.
7. North Mountain Park
Offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding mountains
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The North Mountain National Hiking Trail, also known as Trail 44, is a scenic and challenging route for avid hikers. To reach the trailhead, start by heading west on Northern Avenue from its intersection with AZ 51. After 1.52 miles, turn right onto 7th Street and continue for 1.5 miles until you reach Peoria Avenue. Make a left turn onto Peoria and proceed westward to access the trail.
The North Mountain trail is characterized by its hard-surface asphalt and dirt, making it a suitable option for both hiking and running. The trail's steep terrain provides a rigorous cardiovascular workout, making it a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts. As you ascend the trail, you'll be treated to striking views of Downtown Phoenix and the surrounding North Phoenix area, adding to the trail's overall appeal and making the effort worthwhile.
The North Mountain National Hiking Trail, also known as Trail 44, is a scenic and challenging route for avid hikers. To reach the trailhead, start by heading west on Northern Avenue from its intersection with AZ 51. After 1.52 miles, turn right onto 7th Street and continue for 1.5 miles until you reach Peoria Avenue. Make a left turn onto Peoria and proceed westward to access the trail.
The North Mountain trail is characterized by its hard-surface asphalt and dirt, making it a suitable option for both hiking and running. The trail's steep terrain provides a rigorous cardiovascular workout, making it a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts. As you ascend the trail, you'll be treated to striking views of Downtown Phoenix and the surrounding North Phoenix area, adding to the trail's overall appeal and making the effort worthwhile.
8. Piestewa Peak Park
Historic peak with panoramic views
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The Piestewa Peak Summit Trail is a challenging hike with a total distance of around 4 miles. The trail features steep switchbacks and rocky terrain that may require some scrambling, making it a more difficult hike. However, the rewards at the summit are worth the effort as hikers are treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The trail is a singletrack hike, which means that it is narrow and winding, adding to the challenging nature of the hike. The switchbacks are steep, which can make the ascent more difficult, but they also provide opportunities to rest and take in the scenery. Additionally, the trail features rolling terrain, which can make the descent more manageable. Overall, the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail is a challenging yet rewarding hike for those willing to take on the climb.
The Piestewa Peak Summit Trail is a challenging hike with a total distance of around 4 miles. The trail features steep switchbacks and rocky terrain that may require some scrambling, making it a more difficult hike. However, the rewards at the summit are worth the effort as hikers are treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The trail is a singletrack hike, which means that it is narrow and winding, adding to the challenging nature of the hike. The switchbacks are steep, which can make the ascent more difficult, but they also provide opportunities to rest and take in the scenery. Additionally, the trail features rolling terrain, which can make the descent more manageable. Overall, the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail is a challenging yet rewarding hike for those willing to take on the climb.
9. 7th Ave Trailhead
Historic irrigation system
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The location offers stunning views and is not overly crowded, making it a perfect spot to enjoy some time in nature. The trail itself is a thing of beauty, but it is not without its challenges. The elevation of the trail is significant and will test the endurance of even experienced hikers. Additionally, the trail is very rocky, which can make the hike more difficult and slow going.
Despite the challenges presented by the trail's elevation and rocky terrain, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views. However, it is important for hikers to be prepared for the difficulties they will face on this trail. Proper footwear and a good level of fitness are recommended to fully enjoy the experience.
The location offers stunning views and is not overly crowded, making it a perfect spot to enjoy some time in nature. The trail itself is a thing of beauty, but it is not without its challenges. The elevation of the trail is significant and will test the endurance of even experienced hikers. Additionally, the trail is very rocky, which can make the hike more difficult and slow going.
Despite the challenges presented by the trail's elevation and rocky terrain, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views. However, it is important for hikers to be prepared for the difficulties they will face on this trail. Proper footwear and a good level of fitness are recommended to fully enjoy the experience.
10. Piestewa Peak Trailhead
Home to highest peak in Phoenix
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Piestewa Peak, located in the Phoenix Mountains Park, is a popular hiking destination despite its challenging terrain and crowded conditions. To avoid the heat and crowds, it is recommended to start the hike early in the day and bring plenty of water. The Freedom Trail, which skirts the base of Piestewa Peak, is another beautiful hiking option in the area. This moderately difficult trail features rocky sections and opportunities to see native wildlife, including coyotes.
Piestewa Peak, in the heart of Phoenix Mountains Park, attracts many hikers due to its convenient location. However, visitors should be prepared for crowded trails and parking difficulties. Hiking in the morning is a good way to avoid the heat and beat the crowds. The Freedom Trail, a circumference trail around Piestewa Peak, is also worth exploring. This trail has a moderate difficulty level and offers the chance to spot various native wildlife. Keep an eye out for coyotes, which have been known to make appearances on the trail.
Piestewa Peak, located in the Phoenix Mountains Park, is a popular hiking destination despite its challenging terrain and crowded conditions. To avoid the heat and crowds, it is recommended to start the hike early in the day and bring plenty of water. The Freedom Trail, which skirts the base of Piestewa Peak, is another beautiful hiking option in the area. This moderately difficult trail features rocky sections and opportunities to see native wildlife, including coyotes.
Piestewa Peak, in the heart of Phoenix Mountains Park, attracts many hikers due to its convenient location. However, visitors should be prepared for crowded trails and parking difficulties. Hiking in the morning is a good way to avoid the heat and beat the crowds. The Freedom Trail, a circumference trail around Piestewa Peak, is also worth exploring. This trail has a moderate difficulty level and offers the chance to spot various native wildlife. Keep an eye out for coyotes, which have been known to make appearances on the trail.
11. Phoenix Mountain Preserve - 40th St. Trailhead
Connects to other Phoenix Mountain Preserve trails
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This is a summary of an easy and beautiful walk, which is relatively flat and not as crowded as other trails. The starting point of the trail has parking and restroom facilities. The trail is suitable for various activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and offers great views without much vertical rise.
The trail is ideal for Rim to Rim training hikes, with easy parking, available restrooms, great conditions, and amazing views. The writer began the hike at 4:45 AM, hiking counterclockwise and experiencing 40 minutes of darkness at the beginning. The hike offered the perfect mix of inclines and declines for training, taking approximately 3.5 hours to complete. The writer lost some energy towards the end due to rising temperatures and plans to hike the trail several more times.
This is a summary of an easy and beautiful walk, which is relatively flat and not as crowded as other trails. The starting point of the trail has parking and restroom facilities. The trail is suitable for various activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and offers great views without much vertical rise.
The trail is ideal for Rim to Rim training hikes, with easy parking, available restrooms, great conditions, and amazing views. The writer began the hike at 4:45 AM, hiking counterclockwise and experiencing 40 minutes of darkness at the beginning. The hike offered the perfect mix of inclines and declines for training, taking approximately 3.5 hours to complete. The writer lost some energy towards the end due to rising temperatures and plans to hike the trail several more times.
12. Camelback Hike
Popular hiking destination
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Echo Canyon Trail and Cholla Trail are two popular hiking trails in the same area, both offering spectacular views but with different levels of difficulty. Echo Canyon Trail is less technical than Cholla Trail, but still demanding and requires a good level of fitness. The trail features various challenges, but the payoff is worth it, with impressive views of the surrounding desert landscape.
On the other hand, Cholla Trail is known for its extreme difficulty, with steep and rocky terrain, and no shade, making it a challenging climb even for experienced hikers. However, those who brave the climb will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains. It's crucial to be prepared with proper gear, water, and sun protection before embarking on this trail. While both trails are popular and offer unique experiences, they share the common feature of providing impressive views that make the challenging climbs worth the effort.
Echo Canyon Trail and Cholla Trail are two popular hiking trails in the same area, both offering spectacular views but with different levels of difficulty. Echo Canyon Trail is less technical than Cholla Trail, but still demanding and requires a good level of fitness. The trail features various challenges, but the payoff is worth it, with impressive views of the surrounding desert landscape.
On the other hand, Cholla Trail is known for its extreme difficulty, with steep and rocky terrain, and no shade, making it a challenging climb even for experienced hikers. However, those who brave the climb will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains. It's crucial to be prepared with proper gear, water, and sun protection before embarking on this trail. While both trails are popular and offer unique experiences, they share the common feature of providing impressive views that make the challenging climbs worth the effort.
13. North Mountain - Trail 44
Historic petroglyphs
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The North Mountain National Hiking Trail is a challenging 1.6-mile trek that takes you through the Mountain Preserve, with elevations ranging from 1,490 feet to 2,104 feet. This trail is rated as moderate to difficult, making it a perfect choice for experienced hikers seeking a more strenuous adventure.
To reach the North Mountain National Hiking Trail, head west on Northern Avenue for 1.52 miles from the intersection of AZ 51. Turn right onto 7th Street and continue driving north for 1.5 miles until you reach Peoria Avenue. From there, turn left onto Peoria Avenue and follow the signs to the trailhead. The trail is labeled as 44 and is surrounded by greenery, providing a refreshing and scenic experience for hikers.
The North Mountain National Hiking Trail is a challenging 1.6-mile trek that takes you through the Mountain Preserve, with elevations ranging from 1,490 feet to 2,104 feet. This trail is rated as moderate to difficult, making it a perfect choice for experienced hikers seeking a more strenuous adventure.
To reach the North Mountain National Hiking Trail, head west on Northern Avenue for 1.52 miles from the intersection of AZ 51. Turn right onto 7th Street and continue driving north for 1.5 miles until you reach Peoria Avenue. From there, turn left onto Peoria Avenue and follow the signs to the trailhead. The trail is labeled as 44 and is surrounded by greenery, providing a refreshing and scenic experience for hikers.
14. T-Bone Trail
Scenic views of Phoenix skyline
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The T-Bone Ridgeline Hike is a 3.4 km moderately difficult hike located in the South Mountain Preserve of Phoenix. This route features a steep climb up to a ridge top, offering spectacular views of the city on one side and mountains on the other, before descending back down.
This 2.1-mile out-and-back trail, generally considered moderately challenging, takes an average of 1 hour and 38 minutes to complete. It is a popular trail for hiking and running, but quieter times of day can provide a more solitary experience. The hike is situated near Phoenix, Arizona.
The T-Bone Ridgeline Hike is a 3.4 km moderately difficult hike located in the South Mountain Preserve of Phoenix. This route features a steep climb up to a ridge top, offering spectacular views of the city on one side and mountains on the other, before descending back down.
This 2.1-mile out-and-back trail, generally considered moderately challenging, takes an average of 1 hour and 38 minutes to complete. It is a popular trail for hiking and running, but quieter times of day can provide a more solitary experience. The hike is situated near Phoenix, Arizona.
15. Park And Hike
Dogs allowed on leash
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Phoenix, Arizona and the surrounding areas offer a wide variety of trails for hikers of all levels, from experienced hikers to beginners. One notable trail is the Scenic Trail, a loop in the McDowell Mountains. This trail offers amazing mountain views, with the added bonus of proud saguaros and vivid desert scenery. Its name is fitting, as it provides hikers with a memorable and picturesque experience.
In total, there are 15 hikes near Phoenix that are worth exploring. Here are a few more: the Peralta Trail in the Superstition Mountains, which features a stunning canyon and waterfall; the Watson Lake Trail, where you can see unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters; and the Pinnacle Peak Trail, which boasts panoramic views of the desert and surrounding mountains. With so many beautiful trails to choose from, hikers in Phoenix are sure to find the perfect hike for their interests and abilities.
Phoenix, Arizona and the surrounding areas offer a wide variety of trails for hikers of all levels, from experienced hikers to beginners. One notable trail is the Scenic Trail, a loop in the McDowell Mountains. This trail offers amazing mountain views, with the added bonus of proud saguaros and vivid desert scenery. Its name is fitting, as it provides hikers with a memorable and picturesque experience.
In total, there are 15 hikes near Phoenix that are worth exploring. Here are a few more: the Peralta Trail in the Superstition Mountains, which features a stunning canyon and waterfall; the Watson Lake Trail, where you can see unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters; and the Pinnacle Peak Trail, which boasts panoramic views of the desert and surrounding mountains. With so many beautiful trails to choose from, hikers in Phoenix are sure to find the perfect hike for their interests and abilities.