19 Best Hikes in Phoenix
Phoenix and in general Arizona is one of the most amazing places for finding the best hikes and outdoor activities. We visited it last summer and we couldn’t believe how many beautiful views there are around Phoenix and how much there is to explore. That’s why we put together a guide that includes the 19 Best Hikes in Phoenix.
Table of Content
Easy Hikes in Phoenix
Moderate and Harder Hikes in Phoenix
Best hikes near Phoenix with water
Best Hikes in Phoenix Scottsdale Area
Less crowded hikes in Phoenix
Where to Stay in the Phoenix?
Best places to stay in Downtown Phoenix
Best places to stay in Encanto, Phoenix
Best Places to stay in Camelback East, Phoenix
What should you bring on hikes in Phoenix?
Hiking Tours from Phoenix
The Wrap-Up: 19 Best hikes in Phoenix
Easy Hikes in Phoenix
1. White Tank Waterfall Trail
- Distance: 1.8 miles
- Elevation gain: 229 feet
- Type of trail: Out and Back
White Tank Waterfall Trail is one of the best short hikes in Phoenix and it’s good not only for hiking but also for running and walking. It is also a dog-friendly hike but dogs must be kept on a leash.
The trail is in White Tank Mountain Regional Park and the entry fee is $7 per vehicle and $2 per person if you come by bike or foot. The first part of the trail is paved. The second portion of the trail is not paved but it’s wide and well-maintained. By hiking the White Tank Waterfall Trail you will be able to see some cool petroglyphs as well as a waterfall if you go in the rainy season or after a rain.
2. Hole in the Rock Trail
- Distance: 0.3 miles
- Elevation gain: 35 feet
- Type of trail: Out and Back
Hole in the Rock Trail is definitely the easiest and shortest hike in the Phoenix area that we’ll include in this guide, but it is a trail you should not miss out on. It offers you amazing views of the red rock formations and the hole in the rock.
Tip: It is a very crowded trail so make sure that you go through the day. It’s usually very crowded for sunrise or sunset. We went there in the afternoon and although there were some people we were able to take some pictures and enjoy the view.
The hole in the rock seems almost out of place in the very nearby urban landscape which just adds to the wonder! The hole in the rock is a great place to just relax and enjoy nature as well as a great place for taking unique pictures.
3. Prima Wash Trail to West Loop
- Distance: 2.7 miles
- Elevation gain: 217 feet
- Type of trail: Loop
Prima Wash Trail to West Loop has some ups and downs for elevation gain but it’s a good trail for all levels. The upper trail is wide but watch out for bikers. The bikers are usually really good at paying attention for hikers, but it never hurts to take added precaution by looking out for bikers as you hike.
About a mile into the hike there is a nice view with some rock structures that you can go check out. Through the hike, you’ll see cacti, purple flowers, and beautiful views.
The trail is dog-friendly but dogs must be kept on a leash.
4. Warpaint Loop
- Distance: 2.3 miles
- Elevation gain: 150 feet
- Type of trail: Loop
Warpaint Loop is one of the best day hikes in the Phoenix area. The trail takes you to stunning and unique “painted” rocks. The rocks found on the trail are various shades of brown which gives almost painting-like imagery. Hence, this is where the trail gets its name from. You’ll also pass very large cacti that are interesting to see and take pictures of.
The trail is not shaded so make sure that you’re bringing lots of water, sunscreen, and a hat especially if you go in spring, summer, and early fall.
5. Apache Wash Loop Trail
- Distance: 2.8 miles
- Elevation gain: 134 feet
- Type of trail: Loop
Apache Wash Loop Trail is one of the best short hikes in Phoenix to see desert flora. It is very well marked and the views at sunrise are incredible but it’s a nice hike no matter what time of day you go. This is also a trail that’s not shaded so please be careful and bring lots of water and sunscreen.
Depending on the season you might be able to see blooming pink flowers along the trail.
6. Charles M Christiansen Northern Loop
- Distance: 2.3 miles
- Elevation gain: 345 feet
- Type of trail: Loop
Charles M Christiansen Northern Loop offers you views of the cityscape and mountains. It is pretty close to the highway, so you won’t feel completely submerged within nature like you would on some other trails on our list. Despite the proximity to the highway, the views and the experience are completely worth it.
It has a couple of challenging upward portions of elevation in the beginning so we don’t recommend it if you have bad knees but other than that it’s good for all ages and levels. It’s also not paved in a lot of portions of the trail so please be prepared for that.
Moderate and Harder Hikes in Phoenix
7. Hidden Valley Trail Via Mormon Trail
- Distance: 3.6 miles
- Elevation gain: 925 feet
- Type of trail: Loop
Hidden Valley Trail via Mormon Trail takes you through tunnels, dry waterfalls, and amazing views! The first mile is the hardest part of the trail but it’s totally worth it once you get to the ridge!
Be prepared to encounter many people on this trail because it connects with a couple of other popular trails. If you want to have a better and longer experience once you get to the ridge follow the Hidden Valley Loop.
8. Holbert Trail to Dobbins Lookout
- Distance: 4 miles
- Elevation gain: 998 feet
- Type of trail: Out and back
Holbert Trail to Dobbins Lookout is a challenging trail but very rewarding. The first part of the trail is the hardest part but once you pass it, it will get easier. The views from the lookout are amazing and you could see the mountains and the city at the same time.
How to get to the trail: Once you get to the entrance of South Mountain, turn left past the visitor center and go straight until you reach the trailhead. Once you reach the top, turn right to get to Dobbins Lookout.
9. Mormon Loop to National Trail Loop
- Distance: 4.7 miles
- Elevation gain: 1170 feet
- Type of trail: Out and back
Mormon Loop to National Trail Loop is a nice long hike with some harder parts but definitely worth it! You’ll be able to see a lot of desert nature along the way. The trail has some great views of the city as well as mountains.
The trail is primarily used for hiking and mountain biking and it is also dog friendly.
10. Camelback Mountain via Echo Canyon Trail
- Distance: 2.5 miles
- Elevation gain: 1450 feet
- Type of trail: Out and back
Camelback Mountain is probably the most well-known hiking spot in the Phoenix area. The trail attracts many hikers and rock climbers every year for its challenging summit. This is by far the most difficult trail on our list due to the massive amount of elevation gain as well as the constant steep grade.
If you are up for the challenge, we promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you complete the summit, you will be greeted with a stunning view of the Phoenix metropolitan area as well as the surrounding desert mountains cape.
We definitely recommend attempting this hike only for experienced hikers as it is very difficult. Please bring lots of water as well as sunscreen and a hat as there is little shade.
11. Acer Summit via Mormon Trail
- Distance: 2.4 miles
- Elevation gain: 744 feet
- Type of trail: Out and back
Acer Summit vis Mormon Trail is one of the best day hikes on our list. The trail takes you up a good deal of elevation gain to Acer Summit. Once you make it to the top, you will be greeted with scenic views of the surrounding area. This is one of the best hikes in Phoenix for sunrise or sunset because the views are absolutely incredible
12. Shaw Butte via Shaw Butte Trailhead
- Distance: 2.9 miles
- Elevation gain: 764 feet
- Type of trail: Out and back
Shaw Butte via Shaw Butte Trailhead is a scenic trail that has dirt and paved roads for different portions of its duration but also contains some rocky portions as well. It is a rewarding hike for the views despite the challenge to get to the top.
You can also see beautiful cacti and yellow wildflowers.
Watch out for cars that can pass by you!
Best hikes near Phoenix with water
13. Butcher Jones Trail
- Distance: 5.8 miles
- Elevation gain: 636 feet
- Type of trail: Out and back
Butcher Jones Trail is one of the best summer hikes and best hiking trails in the Phoenix area. Why? Because it takes you to a gorgeous lake that’s surrounded by mountains and the views are incredible.
The trail is pretty narrow and rocky but it’s definitely worth it.
Keep in mind: It is located in Tonto National Forest and an $8 daily pass is required to enter so purchase it from any nearby Chevron or Circle K gas stations.
14. Pipeline Canyon Trail
- Distance: 3.8 miles
- Elevation gain: 515 feet
- Type of trail: Out and back
Pipeline Canyon Trail is another amazing hike near Phoenix with water.
This is one of the best summer trails in the area because you can get your bathing suit ready and swim in the lake, or picnic by it.
You could also see a lot of desert fauna around you as well as frogs, birds, caterpillars, and lizards.
Best Hikes in Phoenix Scottsdale Area
15. Pinnacle Peak Trail
- Distance: 4.0 miles
- Elevation gain: 1033 feet
- Type of trail: Out and back
Pinnacle Peak Trail is one of the best hikes in the Scottsdale area that takes you to incredible views. You will be surrounded by desert fauna as well as the rocky mountainous desert landscape. While on this trail you might almost forget how close you are to civilization!
16. Blue Wash Trail
- Distance: 2.8 miles
- Elevation gain: 400 feet
- Type of trail: Out and back
Blue Wash Trail is one of the best summer hikes near Phoenix. This is an amazing hike with refreshing water that we highly recommend especially in those hot summer months. It takes you to a waterfall that is usually flowing with refreshing water.
You might also see frogs, birds, tadpoles, and other wildlife.
Tip: Download the All Trails map before because the trail is not very well marked and you might not have reception out there.
17. Gateway Loop Trail
- Distance: 4.4 miles
- Elevation gain: 725 feet
- Type of trail: Loop
Gateway Loop Trail is another best summer hike near Phoenix that takes you to beautiful views around cacti. The trail is perfect for sunrise or sunset because you can see the sun very clearly.
Less crowded hikes in Phoenix
18. Mohave Trail
- Distance: 1.7 miles
- Elevation gain: 534 feet
- Type of trail: Out and Back
Mohave Trail is a less crowded hike in Phoenix but with a gorgeous view especially if you go for sunset or sunrise. It is rocky in some parts and there is a small inclination but other than that it’s a good hike.
19. Pima Wash and Beverly Canyon Loop
- Distance: 1.9 miles
- Elevation gain: 265 feet
- Type of trail: Loop
Pima Wash and Beverly Canyon Loop is one of the best short hikes in phoenix that it’s also less crowded. You will pass big cacti and desert fauna.
Where to Stay in the Phoenix?
If you go this far, you definitely want to go to Phoenix or at least consider it. We promise. You will love it!
Phoenix and the Phoenix area have plenty of options for each one’s budget and expectations. Check out our recommendations and pick the best place for you!
We split our recommendations based on their neighborhood and their prices. Low budget options are hotels under $100/night, mid-range budget $100-$200/night. The upscale options are hotels that are over $200/night.
Best places to stay in Downtown Phoenix
If it’s your first time visiting Phoenix, and you want to get to know the city better as well as go hiking as well as get to know the city better, we recommend staying in Downtown Phoenix.
Low budget hotels
If you don’t want to spend that much money but you want to stay in Downtown Phoenix we recommend SureStay Hotel.
Mid-range hotels
We recommend Modern Urban Apartments because each apartment has all the features that are needed in order to provide you comfort and the complex has also a private pool.
Upscale hotels
If you want to spend a little more on a luxurious stay we definitely recommend Found Re Pheonix which is an absolutely gorgeous hotel or if you prefer more of a well-known name, The Westin Phoenix Downtown is an amazing option.
Best places to stay in Encanto, Phoenix
Encanto area is known for being a budget-friendly neighborhood and it’s better for families and lower budget travelers. It is safe and it has access to all parts of Phoenix so we totally recommend it if you want almost the same perks as in downtown for a lower budget.
Low budget hotels
For this category, we recommend La Quinta Inn. We stayed in La Quinta Inn all over the United States and we had a good experience every time we went there.
Mid-range hotels
A good option for a little less than $200 is Hampton Inn Phoenix. It has a small pool and a gym and the rooms are spacious.
Upscale hotels
If you want to have your own new apartment and breakfast included as well as a gym and a big pool, we’d definitely go with Embassy Suites by Hilton.
Best Places to stay in Camelback East, Phoenix
Camelback East has something for each type of tourist. From hiking to shopping to bars it has everything.
Low budget hotels
A good option for a low budget hotel in Camelback is Wander Jaunt. The hotels offers apartments that have everything they need for a good price.
Mid-range hotels
In this category, you’ll have access to a pool and a gym and we recommend Embassy Suites or Sonesta Select. For Embassy Suites you also have your breakfast included in the price so we think that it’s a good deal.
Upscale hotels
Looking for a resort for your family? Then you should definitely go for Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak. It has everything from a pool, restaurants, spas to a tennis court and gym.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious place that it’s not a resort we recommend The Camby, Autograph Collection, and AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore.
What should you bring on hikes in Phoenix?
Here is what we find to be essential to pack for a day of hiking in Phoenix.
Reusable water bottle: Water is so essential especially if you go hiking in Phoenix where you’ll be in the sun a lot. We always use our reusable Nalgene bottles because we are easily able to track how much water we are drinking and 50% of the bottle is made from plastic waste.
Hiking boots: We both swear by our Salomon hiking boots and they are an excellent choice for all terrains. They are very durable, good for holding your ankles. We took them everywhere and they performed perfectly! Click here to see Laura’s boots and here for Nick’s. If you aren’t a big fan of hiking boots, then we recommend using a pair of trail runners instead.
Hiking poles: They are essential when going down into steel inclines or over rocky terrain. We use them all the time to protect our knees and help throughout the trail. We recommend these ones as they are collapsible and they also come with other accessories.
Sun hat: It is very important to protect you head and your skin from sun while hiking in Phoenix where there are almost no trees on a majority of hikes. Nick really likes this sun hat because of how breathable it is.
Sunscreen: It’s an absolute must and we swear by the ones that Le Roche Posay have. We usually use the 60 spf one but they have other options for more or less spf.
Clothing: It really makes a difference if you wear light-colored clothes, especially in summer. Another tip that we have is to wear lightweight and breathable long pants and long sleeve clothes to protect you from the sun. There are so many brands out there that make sun-protect clothes from really light materials.
Flashlight or headlamp: We like to have one in each daypack just in case we stay on a hike longer than we expected. We got the ones from GearLight and we like them.
Snacks: Always make sure to have enough snacks and then some more in case you get lost or a trail takes longer than you expect.
Hiking Tours from Phoenix
Whether you like to travel in a group or solo, joining a Hiking Tour in Phoenix could be a really nice experience. You’ll get a guide that’s going to show and explain all the locals secrets and history and you’ll get the chance to make new friends with the same passions as you. Book your tour now!
The Wrap-Up: 19 Best hikes in Phoenix
Phoenix has so much to offer that you can’t get tired of it. From going on a hike to exploring the city to eating the food, everything seems to match perfectly! So give Phoenix a chance and we promise you that it’s not going to disappoint.