Phoenix, Arizona, is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of trails from urban preserves to rugged mountain terrains. Whether you’re a local resident or planning a visit, this guide will help you explore some of the best hiking spots within and outside the city limits. From developed, well-marked trails to secluded wilderness adventures, you’ll find something for every level of hiker.
Top Urban Hiking Trails in Phoenix
McDowell-Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale
Known for its well-developed and marked trails, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a top choice for urban hiking. Here are a few trail recommendations:
- Tom’s Thumb-East End-Windgate Loop: A decent loop offering moderate to strenuous hiking.
- Gateway-Tom’s Thumb-Bell Loop: A longer, more challenging option for experienced hikers.
- Dixie Mine Trail: Accessible from Fountain Hills, this moderate trail offers a blend of scenic beauty and historic interest. Accessibility details for Dixie Mine Trail make it a suitable option for a variety of users.
- Windmill Trail: Featuring an old windmill, this short detour is worth it if you’re near Bell and Windgate passes.
These trails at McDowell Sonoran Preserve feature not only varied difficulty but also accessibility for a wide range of visitors, including trail lengths at McDowell-Sonoran Preserve that accommodate different hiking interests and physical capabilities.
Trails to Avoid: Camelback and Piestewa
Camelback and Piestewa mountains are insanely busy, particularly this time of year. Parking at Camelback can be a nightmare. Despite the popularity of Camelback Mountain trails, these are better enjoyed in the summertime when the crowds thin out.
Lesser-Known Urban Trails
- Phoenix Mountain Park: Not as pretty as the McDowells but still offers good hiking options.
- South Mountain: Different rock and terrain types, lacking the close views of Four Peaks and Tonto National Forest that the McDowells offer.
For those looking to avoid the crowds, these alternative trails near South Mountain provide excellent options without the congestion found at more popular spots.
Venturing Outside Phoenix
Peralta in the Superstition Mountains
If you’re willing to venture outside city limits, head to the Superstition Mountains, located approximately 30 minutes east of Phoenix:
- Flat Iron Trail: Known for its steep ascent and required scrambling (class 3/4), this trail is not for the faint-hearted but offers rewarding views. The elevation gain of Flat Iron Trail, which is 2,625 feet over a 5.85-mile round trip, provides a strenuous but worthwhile challenge.
- Cholla and Saguaro Observation: Due to more rainfall in this area, the cholla and saguaros are larger, providing a unique desert landscape experience. The best season for hiking Superstition Mountains is winter, due to cooler temperatures.
Ballantine Trail
Prior to a significant fire, Ballantine Trail was a must-visit. While its current condition is unknown, it’s worth checking out for future hikes once it recovers.
Exploring the Northeast and Far East Valley
Areas to Focus On
- Cave Creek
- Scottsdale
- Fountain Hills
- Apache Junction
Use online resources like AllTrails to filter by difficulty, length, trail type (loop, out and back, point to point), and other features like lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Scenic views at Fountain Hills trails, especially the Lake Overlook Trail, offer an excellent escape with moderate difficulties and scenic vistas, perfect for families and novice hikers.
Bonus Trails in Southeast from Riverwood
Amazing Trails Leading to Erindale Park
For those on the eastern side:
Follow the Credit River southeast to discover amazing trails leading to Erindale Park, just north of Dundas St. This area is excellent for various recreational activities.
Conclusion
With numerous trail options within and beyond the Phoenix metropolitan area, there’s no shortage of places to explore. From the well-marked trails of McDowell-Sonoran Preserve to the rugged terrains of the Superstition Mountains, every hiker can find something to enjoy. So lace up your hiking boots and get ready to discover the natural beauty that Phoenix and its surrounding areas have to offer!
This article provides not only trail recommendations but also practical advice on what to expect, helping readers make informed decisions on where to hike next.
