Best Hikes in Phoenix (Easy, Moderate & Hard Trails for Visitors & Locals)

by daniellenfairbanks | Feb 14, 2024

Ahhh, Phoenix, Arizona. The “Valley of the Sun.” The Sonoran Desert. One of the biggest cities in the United States. An adventure hub. There is so much to this city. I have been living here for 10 YEARS NOW. It has SO MUCH to offer. Whether you’re visiting or you’ve been living here for years, let’s go over some of the BEST HIKES IN PHOENIX.

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Phoenix Hiking Overview: What to Know Before You Go

Phoenix is one of the best hiking cities in the U.S., with desert trails woven directly into the metro area. From iconic summit hikes like Camelback Mountain to easy scenic strolls at Papago Park, you can go from city streets to panoramic desert views in minutes.

That said, hiking in Phoenix is very different from hiking in cooler climates. Extreme heat, sun exposure, and elevation gain all play a role in trail difficulty here, so choosing the right hike — and timing it correctly — is key to having a safe and enjoyable experience.

I do want to preface- when I say “Phoenix Hikes,” I don’t always technically mean the actual city of Phoenix. I am referring to the general Phoenix area, which is huge!

Best Time of the Year to Hike in Phoenix

The best months for hiking in Phoenix are October through April, when daytime temperatures are cooler and more comfortable. Winter hiking is especially popular, with sunny skies and mild temperatures making it ideal for both locals and visitors.

Summer hiking (May–September) is not recommended during the day due to dangerous heat. If you do hike in summer, stick to very short, easy trails at sunrise only, and always check the forecast before heading out.

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Desert Hiking Safety Tips

Before heading out, keep these Phoenix-specific tips in mind:

💧 Carry more water than you think you need
🧢 Wear sun protection (hat, sunscreen, lightweight layers)
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes — many trails are rocky
⏰ Start early, especially in warmer months
🚫 Avoid hiking during excessive heat warnings
📍 Let someone know where you’re hiking

Phoenix Fire regularly performs mountain rescues — preparation matters here.

Best Easy Hikes in Phoenix (Great for Beginners & Families)

Phoenix has plenty of hikes that offer beautiful desert scenery without intense elevation gain, making them perfect for beginners, families, or visitors easing into desert hiking.

Papago Park (Hole-in-the-Rock & More)

Papago Park is one of the best hikes in Phoenix. It is located only a few minutes north of Downtown Tempe and Mill Avenue. This park sits at 1,200 acres in Phoenix and 296 acres in Tempe, Arizona. I lived in an apartment 2 minutes from Papago Park for 3 years, so I walked or hiked there 1-2 times per week for all of those years. Papago Park is one of the MOST ACCESSIBLE hikes in Phoenixn whether you have a wheelchair, stroller, or just walk a little more slowly. If you want to get in a good workout, you can run the 5k trail. If you like to hike, there’s elevation gain. It’s perfect! And beautiful. Don’t miss out.

NOTE- Papago Park is on both sides of Galvin Parkway. Most commonly, people will visit “The Hole in the Rock” trail on the Phoenix Zoo side. It’s one of the MOST BEAUTIFUL SUNSET SPOTS in the Phoenix Valley. Be aware, it can be very busy at popular hours, like golden hour. Most of the trails are on the opposite side of the road- definitely try those out.

🏜️⛰️ Want to stay near Tempe? Consider staying at Canopy By Hilton for an aesthetic & affordable stay 🌵✨

HIKE RECOMMENDATIONS– Hole in the Rock, Double Butte Loop Trail, Big Butte Loop

DOUBLE BUTTE LOOP

hike length: 2.2 mi

elevation: 114 ft gain

parking: parking lot

bathrooms: no

dogs: yes

“A” Mountain/ Hayden Butte Preserve

“A” Mountain is an amazing short hike, a few miles from the Phoenix Airport. It is convienently located in Downtown Tempe. Why is there a big “A” on the mountain? For ASU, of course. At the beginning of each new school year, students march up to paint it. Our rivals, The University of Arizona, try to repaint it blue when they can. I’ve sat on the top of the A so many times during college.

Some people like to say this isn’t a hike, but it IS. It’s steep y’all- it’s a good workout. I love the view from the top, and being able to see the peaks of Camelback, Piestewa, The Superstitions, South Mountain, etc. Watching planes fly over is so fun too. Just be respectful of others and pick up your trash! This is a great hike for families, visitors, and even as a date (it was my first date).

Easy Trails at South Mountain

South Mountain Park and Preserve is just south of the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport- you will deinitely see it flying in. I would 100% add this to the list of best hikes in Phoenix. At more than 16,000 acres, it’s one of the largest municipal parks in the country. I’ve probably been 10+ times. I love that there’s no fee for parking or hiking, that the trails are dog-friendly, and trails are easy to moderate so they’re good for all ages. Like mountain biking? This park is perfect for you! It’s a very popular mountain biking area as well- just remember to share the trail.

Treasure Loop Trail (Superstition Mountains)

The Treasure Loop Trail in the Superstition Mountains is a great option if you want to experience the dramatic scenery of the Superstitions without committing to a long or overly strenuous hike. This loop offers classic Sonoran Desert views, rugged rock formations, and a quieter feel compared to more intense routes like Flatiron. The trail has some gentle elevation changes and rocky sections but is generally approachable for most hikers with basic fitness. It’s especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom and in the cooler months when the desert landscape really shines. Treasure Loop is a perfect choice for hikers who want a scenic, well-rounded Superstition Mountains experience without tackling a full summit climb.

Best Hikes in Superstition Mtns

hiking south mountain, near tempe arizona

Best Moderate Hikes in Phoenix

These hikes strike a balance between effort and reward, offering elevation gain and sweeping views without the extreme steepness of Phoenix’s most challenging trails.

Piestewa Peak Summit Trail

Best hikes in Phoenix? Piestewa Peak is definitely on the list. About 15 minutes north of Downtown you will find Phoenix Mountain Preserve, with Piestewa Peak. It’s like a real-life stair stepper. It’s tough, but short. This is another great hike for out-of-town visitors, but again don’t hike over 80 degrees. Even though I’ve been here for 10 years, I don’t get tired hiking this. The biggest bummer is that it isn’t dog friendly- but many other hikes in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve are, that I will list below.

Best Coffee Shops in Phoenix To Pair with a Hike

HIKE RECOMMENDATIONS– Piestewa Peak, Quartz Ridge Trail #8A, 200A Loop, Two Bit Peak Trail, Dreamy Draw, etc.

PIESTEWA PEAK

hike length: 2.3 mi

elevation: 1,151 ft gain

parking: uber or parking lot

bathrooms: yes

dogs: no

Tom’s Thumb Trail (McDowell Mountains)

Located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Tom’s Thumb is a longer, more gradual climb that leads to a unique rock formation and expansive desert views. The trail is well-maintained and offers a more remote feel compared to central Phoenix hikes.

This is a great option if you want a classic Arizona hike with fewer crowds and a more immersive desert experience.

🏜️⛰️ Want to stay near Tom’s Thumb? Consider staying at Four Seasons Scottsdale for a perfect desert-meets-luxury base 🌵✨

Best Challenging Hikes in Phoenix (Advanced & Steep Trails)

These hikes are steep, exposed, and physically demanding. They’re best for experienced hikers who are comfortable with elevation gain and desert conditions.

Camelback Mountain (Echo Canyon & Cholla Trail)

Camelback Mountain is THE ICONIC HIKE for out-of-towners. If you’re spending time hiking and staying in Tempe, Phoenix, or Scottsdale, I highly suggest adding this to the list. This hike is located in Scottsdale. There are two trails, Echo Canyon and Cholla. Both are great, but Echo Canyon is the most popular. SAFETY NOTE- do not hike if the max temp is over 80 degrees. Especially if you’re not from here or you are new to hiking. Many people get rescued off of this mountain. Bring the right amount of water. Bring a small first aid kit. Be PREPARED. If I had to chose the best hike in Phoenix, it would be this one!

🏜️⛰️ Want to stay near Camelback Mountain? Consider staying at The Scott for a perfect desert-meets-luxury base 🌵✨

multiple photos of camelback mountain- best hikes in phoenix

ECHO CANYON HIKE/ CHOLLA HIKE

hike length: 2.6/3.0 mi

elevation: 1,552/1,279 ft gain

parking: uber or parking lot

bathrooms: yes

dogs: no

Flatiron (Superstition Mountains)

Hiking the Flatiron in the Superstition Mountains is one of the most challenging — and rewarding — hikes near Phoenix. This steep, rugged trail climbs relentlessly toward a dramatic rock formation that truly resembles an old iron, with sweeping views over the Sonoran Desert unfolding the higher you go. The route involves sustained elevation gain, rocky terrain, and some light scrambling, making it best suited for experienced hikers who are comfortable navigating desert conditions. Reaching the Flatiron feels like a true accomplishment, especially in the cooler months, when the Superstitions are at their most beautiful. This hike offers a more remote, adventurous experience than city hikes like Camelback, and it’s a must-do for anyone looking to push themselves on one of the Phoenix area’s most iconic trails.

Best Hikes in Phoenix for Sunrise, Sunsets & Photography

If you’re hiking for the views, Phoenix does not disappoint.

Camelback Mountain offers sweeping city views and dramatic desert scenery
Piestewa Peak is stunning at sunrise, with soft light over the city
South Mountain features scenic overlooks that are perfect for sunset photography
Treasure Loop Trail is perfect as the sun from the west hits it straight on!

These hikes are especially popular during golden hour, so expect more foot traffic.

just after sunrise in the superstition mountains

Best Phoenix Hikes for Visitors Without a Car

Not renting a car? You still have great options.

Papago Park is close to downtown Phoenix and Scottsdale
Camelback Mountain has central access points near resorts and hotels
Piestewa Peak is easily reachable from many central Phoenix neighborhoods

These hikes allow visitors to experience Phoenix’s desert landscapes without traveling far.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Phoenix Hike for You

Whether you’re looking for an easy desert walk, a challenging summit climb, or a scenic sunset hike, Phoenix offers trails for every experience level. By choosing the right hike for the season and your ability level, you’ll get to experience why Phoenix is one of the best hiking cities in the Southwest.