Welcome to the Valley of the Sun! I’ve been hiking here for years. Phoenix saw over 20.8 million visitors last year, and many came for only one purpose: the great Nature trails in Phoenix. This city is a playground for outdoor lovers, with mountains and preserves right in town. I’ve tried so many paths here, from easy walks to challenging climbs. This guide covers the Top hiking spots in Phoenix, for which it is well known, perfect for any skill level. I’m excited to share my favorites to help you plan your trip for the best Hikes in Phoenix. To enhance your experience, i have mentioned 13 best hikes in Phoenix.
Best Month to Visit
November and April are perfect months for all these 13 best Hikes in Phoenix that I have mentioned. Here’s a seasonal breakdown.
| Best Month to Visit | Reason |
| November | Start of the peak hiking season with pleasant fall weather. |
| December | Comfortable winter conditions for outdoor activities. |
| March | Ideal spring hiking with sunny but not overly hot weather. |
| April | Last month of peak season to enjoy the trails before the summer heat. |
| Travel Insurance: For peace of mind on the trails, consider getting travel insurance. It’s a small cost that protects against unexpected trip interruptions or accidents. |
Top 13 Best Hikes in Phoenix
1. Camelback Mountain
This is the iconic and most challenging hike in Phoenix, Arizona. This climb will challenge your body and brain with scrambling requiring your hands. The view from the top is totally worth it with a full 360-degree view! It’s a very popular hike in Phoenix. And it can be your no.1 hiking choice, but be prepared for crowds, as this is one of the 13 best Hikes in Phoenix.
- Best for: Extreme
- Distance: 2.5 miles
- Elevation: 1,420 feet
- Type of Route: Out & Back
- Length: 2-3 hours
2. Papago Park
This park is known for its outstanding red rock buttes and is very accessible. The “Hole in the Rock” trail is an excellent hike for sunset views and unique geology. This is a tremendous family park or a place to take a leisurely, beautiful walk. The gentle trails at this park make it one of the top hikes. This Phoenix hike is easy and accessible enough to spend an afternoon enjoying the great outdoors.
- Best for: Beginner-friendly
- Distance: 0.3 miles
- Elevation: 67 feet
- Type of Route: Loop
- Length: 10-20 minutes
3. Phoenix Mountains Preserve (Piestewa Peak)
This is a local favorite hike for a challenging workout with good views. The Summit Trail is a steep, rocky climb. Because it is such a popular fitness trail, plan to share the trail with other hikers. This is a top choice for challenging mountains to hike near Phoenix, without leaving the city.
- Best for: Extreme
- Distance: 2.2 miles
- Elevation: 1,148 feet
- Type of Route: Out & Back
- Length: 1.5-2 hours
4. Pinnacle Peak Park
This is a beautiful, well-maintained trail in North Scottsdale. There is a moderate climb with switchbacks to make it manageable. The path contours through the Sonoran Desert with saguaros. It’s a great workout and one of the best Outdoor activities in Phoenix for great views without extreme difficulty.
- Best for: Moderate
- Distance: 3.5 miles
- Elevation: 1,300 feet
- Type of Route: Out & Back
- Length: 1.5-2 hours
5. Lookout Mountain Preserve
This is a great fit if you are looking for a hike to the summit without a lot of crowds. The summit does become steep and rocky – requiring some scrambling. It’s a short but effective workout that rewards you with views. It’s one of the best hikes in the Phoenix area if you want a challenge that won’t take up your whole day. This is your hike, then.
- Best for: Moderate
- Distance: 1.2 miles
- Elevation: 469 feet
- Type of Route: Out & Back
- Length: 45-60 minutes
6. McDowell Sonoran Preserve (Gateway Loop)
The Gateway Loop is a popular hike in this large preserve. The trail is perfect with a moderate challenge, with nice desert scenery. It offers great views from the saddle and is very well-maintained. This is a must-do for anyone trying hiking in Phoenix, Arizona, and its surrounding areas.
- Best for: Moderate
- Distance: 4.5 miles
- Elevation: 655 feet
- Type of Route: Loop
- Length: 2-3 hours
7. South Mountain Park and Preserve
The Hidden Valley Loop via Mormon Trail is a fun trail and route. This trail takes you through rock formations like “Fat Man’s Pass.” It is considered one of the best and easiest hikes in Phoenix, enough for most people. It still feels like a true escape with its cool geology. This is a must-do on any list of the 13 best Hikes in Phoenix.
- Best for: Moderate
- Distance: 3.8 miles
- Elevation: 943 feet
- Type of Route: Loop
- Length: 2-3 hours
8. Lost Dutchman State Park (Flatiron)
The Flatiron hike via Siphon Draw is one of Arizona’s toughest hikes. This hard climb is not for beginners, involving steep scrambling. The reward is a great view from a massive rock formation. It is located high in the legendary Superstition Mountains. It should be a bucket-list hike for experienced hikers.
- Best for: Extreme
- Distance: 5.8 miles
- Elevation: 2,745 feet
- Type of Route: Out & Back
- Length: 4-6 hours
9. White Tank Mountain Regional Park (Waterfall Trail)
Waterfall Trail is the most popular hike. It’s an easy family walk to petroglyphs and a waterfall.. The first part is paved and accessible for everyone. It’s one of the best easy hikes in Phoenix, especially after rain when the water is flowing.
- Best for: Beginner-friendly
- Distance: 1.8 miles
- Elevation: 247 feet
- Type of Route: Out & Back
- Length: 45-60 minutes
10. Estrella Mountain Regional Park (Baseline Trail)
The Baseline Trail is a perfect introduction to this park. It’s a gentle loop circling a small mountain with nice views. There’s no hard climb, making it one of the best easy hikes in Phoenix, suitable for families or anyone looking for a peaceful walk. A nice place for a quiet morning off the city trails.
- Best for: Beginner-friendly
- Distance: 2.6 miles
- Elevation: 370 feet
- Type of Route: Loop
- Length: 1-1.5 hours
11. Usery Mountain Regional Park (Wind Cave Trail)
The Wind Cave Trail is a great moderate hike in Mesa. The path climbs to a large alcove that provides shade. The spot also offers panoramic views of the East Valley. It’s a popular, well-marked route that provides a great workout. This is one of my favorite Top hiking spots in Phoenix.
- Best for: Moderate
- Distance: 3.0 miles
- Elevation: 812 feet
- Type of Route: Out & Back
- Length: 1.5-2 hours
12. Superstition Mountains (Peralta Trail)
The Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle is an iconic Arizona hike. The trail follows a beautiful canyon up to a great view. From the saddle, you can see the famous Weaver’s Needle. It’s a steady moderate climb up through rough terrain. This is one of the most scenic and popular hikes in Phoenix.
- Best for: Moderate
- Distance: 4.8 miles
- Elevation: 1,400 feet
- Type of Route: Out & Back
- Length: 2.5-3 hours
13. Grand Canyon National Park
While a few hours’ drive, no trip is complete without seeing this. This massive canyon was carved by the Colorado River. It stands as a world wonder. The South Rim offers many viewpoints and walkable paths. It’s a journey that provides profound Outdoor activities in Phoenix‘s greater region. A definite must-see and visit hike.
- Special Feature: World-famous, mile-deep canyon with layered rock formations.
- Where to Stay: 9 Village Loop Dr, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
- Hours: Verify on the official site.
- Hidden Gem: Shoshone Point, an unmarked viewpoint with fewer crowds.
Follow these tips to enjoy the best Hikes in Phoenix safely.
- Renting a vehicle is the best way to reach most hiking trailheads.
- Many regional parks charge entrance fees; bring cash or a pass.
- Always pack significantly more water than you think you will need.
- Hike early in the morning to avoid the heat of the sun, especially during summer.
- Parking for Phoenix’s best hikes fills up quickly; arrive before 7:00 AM on weekends.
- Follow these tips to enjoy the 13 best Hikes in Phoenix safely.
Conclusion
Phoenix has an abundance of trails, from easy desert walks to hard climbs in the mountains. The general accessibility makes it one of the best cities for people who enjoy the outdoors. Each mountain has its own personality, giving one endless opportunities to get outside. This guide to the 13 best Hikes in Phoenix helps you plan your trip. My biggest advice is just get out there and see a new peak; it might change your view of this desert city.
