Step into Adventure: The 15 Best Walks in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona, is a city defined by its striking desert landscapes, endless sunshine, and rich outdoor culture. For locals and visitors alike, exploring the area on foot is one of the best ways to experience its unique beauty.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a casual stroller, or someone looking for an accessible adventure, Phoenix offers an incredible variety of walking trails to suit every preference.
From breathtaking summit climbs to serene desert loops, these walks showcase the city’s vibrant flora, fauna, and history. Let’s dive into 15 of the best walks in Phoenix, each offering a unique perspective on the Valley of the Sun.
1. Echo Canyon Trail (Camelback Mountain)
- Location: 5700 North Echo Canyon Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85018
- Highlights: Challenging ascent with panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
- Best for: Experienced hikers seeking a strenuous workout.
If you’re looking for a trail that combines fitness with stunning vistas, the Echo Canyon Trail is a must. This challenging hike is not for the faint of heart, but the reward is worth the effort. As you ascend Camelback Mountain, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the valley, iconic red rock formations, and the city skyline. Make sure to bring plenty of water and start early to beat the heat.
2. Piestewa Peak Summit Trail
- Location: 2701 East Squaw Peak Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85016
- Highlights: Second-highest peak in Phoenix offering 360-degree views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
- Best for: Moderate hikers looking for a rewarding summit experience.
Another Phoenix classic, the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail, offers a challenging yet manageable climb. The trail is well-maintained, making it a favorite among locals. Reaching the summit is a true accomplishment, as it provides one of the best vantage points in the city. It’s particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset.
3. Pinnacle Peak Trail
- Location: 26802 N. 102nd Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
- Highlights: Groomed pathway with gradual inclines, showcasing raw panoramic views of the desert.
- Best for: Casual hikers interested in scenic desert vistas.
Located in nearby Scottsdale, Pinnacle Peak Trail offers a gentler hiking experience while still delivering spectacular views. This well-maintained trail is ideal for families or those seeking a less strenuous walk. Along the way, you’ll encounter towering saguaro cacti, wildflowers, and plenty of photo opportunities.
4. Double Butte Loop and Hole-in-the-Rock Trail (Papago Park)
- Location: 625 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008
- Highlights: Unique geological formations, including the famous Hole-in-the-Rock.
- Best for: Families and beginners exploring distinctive rock formations.
Papago Park is a treasure trove of easy, accessible trails. The Double Butte Loop offers a flat, scenic walk around the park’s iconic red rock formations. Don’t miss the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail, which leads to a natural sandstone formation offering stunning views of the surrounding desert.
5. Dixie Mountain Loop (Phoenix Sonoran Preserve)
- Location: 1600 E. Sonoran Desert Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85085
- Highlights: Rolling loop trail through undeveloped desert, notable for its diverse plant life and spring wildflowers.
- Best for: Nature enthusiasts interested in botany and seasonal blooms.
For those seeking tranquility, the Dixie Mountain Loop is a hidden gem. This trail is located in the lesser-traveled Phoenix Sonoran Preserve, offering a peaceful escape from the city. The diverse desert flora and fauna, especially during spring, make this trail a must-visit for nature lovers.
6. Judith Tunnell Accessible Trail (South Mountain Park)
- Location: 10919 S. Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
- Highlights: Barrier-free trail with interpretive signage and trailside benches.
- Best for: Individuals seeking an easy, informative desert walk.
South Mountain Park is home to the Judith Tunnell Accessible Trail, an excellent option for those who prefer a leisurely stroll. The trail is wheelchair-friendly and features interpretive signage that provides insight into the region’s ecosystem. It’s perfect for families and anyone looking to enjoy the desert without too much exertion.
7. Murphy Bridle Path
- Location: Central Ave and Bethany Home Rd, Phoenix, AZ
- Highlights: Historic path with a canopy of ash and olive trees, preserved by the Arizona Horse Lovers Club.
- Best for: Historians and casual walkers appreciating shaded, scenic routes.
The Murphy Bridle Path offers a delightful urban walking experience. This shaded pathway runs along Central Avenue and is lined with historic homes and lush greenery. It’s a great spot for a morning jog or an afternoon stroll.
8. Trail 100 (North Mountain Park)
- Location: 10600 N. 7th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85020
- Highlights: Wide trail popular with hikers, runners, and mountain bikers, offering uneven surfaces and gentle elevations.
- Best for: Beginners acclimating to desert hiking conditions.
Trail 100 is a versatile option for those looking to explore North Mountain Park. Its relatively easy terrain makes it a great introduction to desert hiking. With plenty of open space, this trail is also popular among trail runners and mountain bikers.
9. L.V. Yates Trail (Phoenix Mountains Preserve)
- Location: 40th Street south of Shea Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ
- Highlights: Trail bends into a cactus-studded valley, providing a secluded desert experience.
- Best for: Hikers seeking a peaceful escape close to the city.
The L.V. Yates Trail is a hidden gem within the Phoenix Mountains Preserve. This serene trail offers a quieter alternative to busier hikes, winding through picturesque valleys filled with cacti and desert wildflowers. It’s a perfect spot for a meditative walk.
10. Hole-in-the-Rock Trail
- Location: 625 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008
- Highlights: Easy hike to a natural sandstone formation with panoramic views.
- Best for: Families and photographers.
A short but rewarding hike, the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail is a favorite for families and casual walkers. The trail leads to a fascinating sandstone feature with a large opening that frames stunning views of the surrounding desert. It’s a great spot for capturing memorable photos.
11. Blevins Trail (Usery Mountain Regional Park)
- Location: 3939 N. Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207
- Highlights: Gentle desert loop trail with views of the Superstition Mountains.
- Best for: Beginners and families.
Located just outside Phoenix, the Blevins Trail in Usery Mountain Regional Park is an easy loop perfect for families and beginners. The trail offers a chance to see desert wildlife and enjoy views of the majestic Superstition Mountains in the distance.
12. Kiwanis Trail (South Mountain Park)
- Location: 10919 S. Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
- Highlights: Short hike with scenic desert views and a picnic area at the trailhead.
- Best for: Casual hikers and families.
The Kiwanis Trail is another gem in South Mountain Park. This short, easy hike offers beautiful desert views and a picnic area where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. It’s a great spot for a quick outdoor adventure.
13. Gateway Loop Trail (McDowell Sonoran Preserve)
- Location: 18333 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- Highlights: Well-maintained loop trail showcasing the beauty of the McDowell Mountains.
- Best for: Hikers looking for a moderate challenge and scenic views.
The Gateway Loop Trail is one of the most popular trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The loop offers moderate elevation gain and plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning desert scenery. It’s an excellent choice for a morning or evening hike.
14. Cave Creek Regional Park Trails
- Location: 37900 E. Cave Creek Parkway, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
- Highlights: Network of trails with diverse desert scenery and historic sites.
- Best for: Hikers of all levels looking for variety.
Cave Creek Regional Park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a longer trek, the park’s trails provide diverse desert landscapes and glimpses of local wildlife. History buffs will appreciate the park’s ties to Arizona’s Old West.
15. Desert Botanical Garden Trails
- Location: 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008
- Highlights: Beautifully curated gardens featuring native desert plants and art installations.
- Best for: Plant enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely walk.
For a more curated experience, visit the Desert Botanical Garden. The walking trails here are short and easy, allowing visitors to explore themed gardens, unique plant collections, and seasonal exhibits. It’s an excellent spot for families and anyone interested in desert flora.
Phoenix is a paradise for walkers, offering trails that showcase the breathtaking beauty of the desert.
Whether you’re scaling a mountain, strolling through a shaded urban path, or exploring a tranquil preserve, these 15 walks capture the essence of the Valley of the Sun.
Lace up your walking shoes, grab your water bottle, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Phoenix. Adventure awaits!
