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Arizona Hiking

Explore the Best Hiking Trails in Arizona

Arizona is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails for every skill level—from challenging climbs up Camelback Mountain to family- and dog-friendly desert hikes. Stay at a GoodNight Stay vacation rental close to multiple hiking trails in the Phoenix Metro Area, and just a 2-hour drive from Sedona to walk among the iconic red rocks. Whether you’re seeking a rewarding challenge or a leisurely outdoor adventure, we’ve outlined the best hikes in the area. Along with the below trails, our guide to the best sunrise hiking spots will help you plan an unforgettable experience exploring the desert, mountains, and iconic landscapes of the Copper State.

Camelback Mountain

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Summit Camelback Mountain for gorgeous views of the entire Paradise Valley! Start the hike at the Echo Canyon Trailhead to climb to the summit at 2,704 feet. This trail has been labeled extremely difficult so be prepared for a hike along uneven terrain and be prepared with plenty of water! Try hiking early in the morning to beat the heat.

Lost Dog Wash Trailhead

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The Lost Dog Wash Trail is located within the McDowell Mountain preserve and is a 5.2-mile round trip loop. Offering stunning views of local wildflowers, the trail is easy and is a popular, well-trafficked trail. Dogs are allowed to join hikers on this trail as long as they are leashed!

Hole in the Rock

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This 0.3 mile out-and-back style trail makes for an easy hike to a gorgeous view of Hole in the Rock. Located in Papago Park, the area is home to plenty of areas for hiking, running, and mountain biking, Take the short hike to Hole in the Rock and then make a visit to the Phoenix Zoo or the Desert Botanical Garden afterwards!

McDowell Sonoran Preserve Gateway Trail

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The Gateway Trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a 4.2-mile-long loop trail that is heavily trafficked and labeled as mildly difficult. The main draw of this trail are the wildflowers that can be seen on along the way. Be on the lookout for mountain bikers who may be making use of the trail and enjoy bringing a leashed four-legged friend along on this popular trail!

Sunrise Trailhead

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This out-and-back style hiking trail is a popular one for hikers, mountain bikers, and families looking to experience the Arizona landscape. Open year-round, this hike welcomes leashed dogs and is a perfect way to start the day!

South Mountain

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At over 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the largest municipal parks in the country. Start a visit at the South Mountain Environmental Education Center, hike, bike and ride more than 58 miles of trails, or follow the road to the top of the mountain for spectacular views.

Echo Canyon Trail

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This trail is an intense and difficult anaerobic hike, the entire 1.23 miles to the summit. It ascends approximately 1,280 ft, from 1,424 ft above sea level to 2,704 ft. Getting a parking spot can be a long wait if you arrive on the weekend after 6 AM as this is a popular hiking trail. Be sure to bring plenty of water for this challenging yet rewarding hike!

Freedom Trail

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Try this 3.6-mile loop trail near Phoenix, Arizona. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 11 min to complete. This area is very popular for birding, hiking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.

Morman Trailhead

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Explore this 4.7-mile loop trail near Phoenix, Arizona. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 34 min to complete. This area is very popular for hiking, mountain biking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Piestewa Peak

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Check out this 2.1-mile out-and-back trail near Phoenix, Arizona. Generally considered a challenging route. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are October through March. You'll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren't allowed on this trail.

Pinnacle Peak

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Pinnacle Peak is a granite summit located in Scottsdale, Arizona. The peak rises to an elevation of 3,169 feet. It is in the 150-acre Pinnacle Peak Park, operated by the City of Scottsdale Park District. Part of the Sonoran Desert, the park is home to various native desert flora and fauna. Hikers utilize a 1.75-mile trail to explore the area, though rock climbing skills are needed to reach the summit.

Badger Springs Trail

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Badger Springs offers a short trail for non-motorized users within the Agua Fria National Monument. The trail leads down the Badger Springs Wash to the Agua Fria River canyon, an area rich in archaeological resources.

Phoenix Mountain Preserve

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The parks and peaks that make up the Phoenix Mountains Preserve are surrounded by civilization but feel as remote as the Sonoran Desert outside the city. Located in the heart of Central Phoenix and just 20 minutes from downtown, the preserve offers hiking, biking, and views from prominent summits such as Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain.

Cave Creek Trails

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Explore this 19.7-mile out-and-back trail near Cave Creek, Arizona. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 8 h 14 min to complete. This trail is great for backpacking, hiking, and mountain biking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

Thunderbird Mountain Trail

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Explore this 7.3-mile loop trail near Glendale, Arizona. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 34 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, horseback riding, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of the day. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.