Phoenix has been getting a lot of publicity because of all the activities it offers to residents, and one of the best resources in our city is the great outdoors. There are all types of hiking options in the Phoenix area from easy trips to more intense outings. Decide how far you want to travel to the trail, and how strenuous you want your hike to be, then hit the trail and enjoy one of these seven great hiking options.
1 Judith Tunnell Accessible Trails – South Mountain Park Preserve
This is probably the easiest trail on our list and makes a great place to start for people without any hiking experience. The trails are paved, which makes them accessible to people from all walks of life. You may even find people pushing their friends and loved ones in wheelchairs so that everyone can enjoy the views. There are two short loops available, both of which feature water fountains, shady resting spots, and terrific views of desert life. There are educational signs available to help you learn more about all the sights you’re taking in.
2 Hidden Valley via Mormon Trail – South Mountain Park/ Preserve
This hike is four miles long and presents a medium-high difficulty level that’s suitable for most hikers, as long as you’re willing to put in some effort. The views are worth the energy and include desert flora as well as impressive rock formations. Starting up Mormon Trail at the very beginning can be difficult, but the rest of the hike gets much easier after that. You’ll enjoy segments like Fat Man’s Pass, natural tunnels, and beautiful rock engravings.
3 Pinnacle Peak Trail – Pinnacle Peak Park
This hike represents more of a true medium in terms of difficulty. The incline is very gradual across the full distance of the hike, which is 3.5 miles out and back. The trail is well maintained, which allows for sure footing and makes it easy to let your eyes wander while you walk. You’ll be treated to classic desert views like rock formations and cacti, plus expansive vistas of well-manicured golf courses.
4 Echo Canyon Trail – Camelback Mountain
This trail is one of the most difficult on our list, but it’s absolutely worth it if you have what it takes to reach the top. This trail is difficult, and it’s busy, but you’ll understand why once you reach the top and look down. The elevation gain can be steep at times, and you’ll want to have your hands free for climbing over rocks. Once you get to the top, you can enjoy a beautiful 360° view of the Phoenix area.
5 Lookout Mountain Summit Trail – Phoenix Mountains Preserve
This trail is short, but it demands enough of an incline to make it qualify as medium difficulty anyway. It’s only 1.2 miles out and back, but you’ll climb more than 450 feet during that time. The view includes residential areas of Phoenix as well as the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, which makes it worth the effort to get up. This trail connects to other trailheads for expanded options, and it’s also totally worth seeing all by itself.
6 Siphon Draw Trail to Flatiron – Lost Dutchman State Park
This is the most challenging hike on our list. If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll see why it’s worth the effort. The total outing is six miles out and back, and much of it will be spent using your hands to help pull yourself along. The view is just as breathtaking as the incline, so save some time to enjoy it before you have to head back.
7 Double Butte Loop and Hole in the Rock Trail – Papago Park
This is another fairly easy trail for beginning hikers or anyone who wants a relaxing walk. You’ll get an up close and personal look at the famous red stone formations in Papago Park, as these trails allow you to get right inside the ancient sandstone. Enjoy a fairly easy loop that’s a little over two miles long. Once you’ve warmed up with this short walk, it’s time to see the other landmark here. Hole in the Rock is a great place to take in views of Phoenix’s skyline as well as other beautiful desert scenery.
Apartments for Rent in Phoenix
If you’re big on finding the best views in Phoenix, you may want to start with a stylish apartment. Our communities are conveniently located among some of the best activities in Phoenix, and our residents get easy access to all their favorite trailheads. Contact us today to set up a showing, and we’ll recommend some more of our favorite hikes in the area.