Arizona Hiking Guide
by Allison McKnight
Explore Diverse Landscapes and Breathtaking Vistas
Arizona’s rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes offer a hiker’s paradise, with trails that cater to all skill levels. From the iconic Grand Canyon to the stunning red rocks of Sedona, the state is adorned with natural wonders waiting to be explored. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and embark on an unforgettable adventure through Arizona’s diverse trails.
As you embark on your Arizona hiking adventure, remember these essential tips:
- Hydration is Key: Arizona’s arid climate demands constant water replenishment. Pack plenty of water and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Sun Protection is Crucial: Protect yourself from the harsh Arizona sun by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Leave No Trace: Respect the delicate desert ecosystem by staying on designated trails, packing out all trash, and minimizing your impact on the environment.
- Be Weather Aware: Check weather forecasts before heading out and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions.
With its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking scenery, Arizona offers an unforgettable hiking experience for everyone. Lace up your boots, embrace the adventure, and discover the magic that awaits you on the trails of the Grand Canyon State!
Arizona Trail
817 miles
The Arizona Trail stretches 817 miles across the state of Arizona (north–south), from the Arizona–Utah border west of Lake Powell to the Arizona–Mexico border west of Bisbee. The trail traverses a wide diversity of terrain, passing among canyons, desert, mountains and forests and linking wilderness areas, towns and cities, historic sites and points of interest.
Grand Canyon National Park
Various Trails
No Arizona hiking guide would be complete without mentioning the Grand Canyon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts awe-inspiring views and challenging trails that wind along the canyon rim or descend into the depths below. The South Kaibab Trail and Bright Angel Trail are popular choices, offering hikers a chance to witness the canyon’s geological wonders up close.
Sedona’s Red Rock Country
Various Trails
Sedona is renowned for its stunning red rock formations and mystical energy. Hikers can choose from a variety of trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty, such as the Cathedral Rock Trail, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, or the Devil’s Bridge Trail, which leads to a natural sandstone arch.
Havasu Falls
10 miles
Located within the Havasupai Indian Reservation, Havasu Falls is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse of paradise. The trail to the falls is challenging but rewarding, leading hikers through a desert oasis to stunning turquoise waters cascading over red rocks. Camping permits are required to visit Havasu Falls, so be sure to plan ahead.
Superstition Mountains
Various Trails (5-7 miles)
The Superstition Mountains are shrouded in legend and offer hikers a glimpse into Arizona’s rugged past. Trails such as the Peralta Trail and the Siphon Draw Trail lead adventurers through stunning desert landscapes and offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Arroyo Trail
.3 miles
The Arroyo Trail is a short trail from the Pine Knoll Trail at Pine Knoll Dr. to the north side of I-40 in Flagstaff.
Route 66 Trail
4.2 miles
The Route 66 Trail in Flagstaff begins in the heart of the beautiful historic downtown district right next to the picturesque Flagstaff Train Depot. Parking is available right along historic Route 66 at the visitor center adjacent to the trailhead.
Camelback Mountain
2.5 miles
Located in the heart of Phoenix, Camelback Mountain is a popular hiking destination for both locals and tourists. The Echo Canyon Trail and the Cholla Trail offer challenging hikes with rewarding views of the city below.
48th Street Trail
2 miles
This trail is a 2 mile multi-use path that runs parallel to N. 48th St. in Phoenix. It is a useful resource for the community, connecting nearby residences to schools, recreation facilities & shopping.
67th Avenue Trail
.5 miles
This short trail parallels N 67th Avenue in Glendale, along a portion of the Thunderbird Recreation Area. The trail provides a connection between nearby residences & educational facilities. Crossing 67th Avenue gives users access to the Hillcrest Ranch Trail.
AZ-51 Trail – PHX
5.2 miles
The AZ-51 Trail parallels Arizona Route 51/Piestewa Freeway on a paved route between Reach 11 Recreation Area and the golf course at E. Cactus Road near N. 42nd Street. The trail provides access to surrounding communities, county government facilities, schools, neighborhoods, hospitals and numerous parks and businesses.
Apache Railroad Trail
19 miles
The entire trail follows an historic railroad route offering gentle trail grades and beautiful scenery. Formerly the railroad hauled logs from various parts of the Apache National Forest and the White Mountain Apache Reservation and later hauled tourists from McNary on a tour of the White Mountains. It has been unused for 3 decades.
Az Canal Trail
16 miles
The Arizona Canal Trail is one of the longer multi-use trails in Maricopa County. This trail runs for 16 miles between Phoenix and Peoria along the Arizona Canal, one of the counties vital waterways. The trail is largely continuous along a number of parallel pathsways adjacent to the concrete-lined channel. It provides access to a large number of residences, commercial centers, schools and other recreational opportunities.
Litchfield Park / Goodyear Trail
3.3 miles
This trail serves to connect the communities of Litchfield Park and Goodyear, just outside of Phoenix. This utilitarian-style path parallels Indian School Rd. and Litchfield Rd., passing parks, business, and residences along the way.
Queen Creek Wash Trail
2.3 miles
This trail has a more rural feel than other trails in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Located within the community of Queen Creek, and following the banks of Queen Creek Wash, this trail passes open space, farmland, and some smaller residential communities.
Salt River Trail
2.2 miles
This trail runs along the south bank of the Salt River in Tempe. The trail connects the Arizona State University Tempe Campus with a number of parks. The trail offers a nice recreational respite of residence of the metropolitan area.
Shea Boulevard Trail
3.5 miles
This trail runs parallel to Shea Boulevard in Scottsdale. The trail consists of two disconnected segments. The western segment has a much more suburban feel than the eastern segment, which is more rural. This trail provides a useful transportation and recreation corridor for the surrounding communities.
Tempe Canal Trail
7.4 miles
This trail parallels the Tempe Canal between Tempe and Mesa. The trail consists of two disconnected segments, both of which serve a large number of residents, businesses and public facilities.
