The Best Hiking Trails in Phoenix and Surrounding Cities

Phoenix, Arizona is more than just sunshine and golf, it’s a hiker’s paradise with trails that cut through desert canyons, scale iconic mountains, and offer panoramic views that stretch for miles. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned desert dweller, there’s a trail for every skill level in Phoenix and its neighboring cities. Here's your ultimate guide to the best hiking spots, ranked from easy to hard, with each trail offering not just great views but great communities nearby to call home.

🟢 Easy Hiking Trails

1. Papago Park – Phoenix (Zip: 85008)

Trail: Elliott Ramada Loop
Length: 2.3 miles
Why it’s great: Wide paths, minimal elevation, and beautiful rock formations make it a family-friendly favorite. It’s also close to the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden.

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2. Lost Dog Wash Trail – Scottsdale (Zip: 85259)

Trail: Lost Dog Wash to Taliesin Overlook
Length: 4.4 miles
Why it’s great: A peaceful, scenic trail with gradual inclines and sweeping views of McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Great for sunrise hikes or beginners looking to stretch their limits.

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🟡 Moderate Hiking Trails

3. Piestewa Peak Freedom Trail – Phoenix (Zip: 85016)

Trail: Freedom Loop Trail #302
Length: 3.6 miles
Why it’s great: This loop gives hikers stunning views of Piestewa Peak without the intense elevation of the summit trail. A perfect moderate challenge with shady resting points.

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4. Gateway Loop – Scottsdale (Zip: 85255)

Trail: Gateway Loop Trail
Length: 4.5 miles
Why it’s great: This trail winds through the McDowell Sonoran Preserve with a good balance of elevation and distance. You'll find smooth terrain, desert blooms, and occasional wildlife sightings.

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5. South Mountain – Phoenix (Zip: 85042)

Trail: National Trail
Length: Up to 14.3 miles (doable in segments)
Why it’s great: Offers breathtaking views over Phoenix and dramatic rock outcroppings. Moderate trails like Hidden Valley and Mormon Loop are popular for weekend adventurers.

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🔴 Challenging Hiking Trails

6. Camelback Mountain – Phoenix/Paradise Valley (Zip: 85253)

Trail: Echo Canyon or Cholla Trail
Length: 2.5 to 3 miles round trip
Why it’s great: With an elevation gain of 1,400+ feet, this is one of the most iconic (and most intense) hikes in Phoenix. Expect steep rock scrambles, narrow paths, and a killer view at the top.

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7. Tom’s Thumb Trail – Scottsdale (Zip: 85262)

Trail: Tom’s Thumb Trail
Length: 4 miles out and back
Why it’s great: Known for its towering granite formations and elevation gains, this trail is a favorite among seasoned hikers. It's also one of the most photogenic trails in the Valley.

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8. Flatiron via Siphon Draw – Apache Junction (Zip: 85119)

Trail: Siphon Draw to Flatiron
Length: 6.2 miles
Why it’s great: This Superstition Mountains trail is brutal but rewarding. Not for the faint of heart, with boulder scrambles and steep grades, but offers unforgettable views over the East Valley.

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Trails for Families and Newcomers 👨‍👩‍👧

If you're just dipping your toes into hiking or introducing your kids to the desert—opt for:

• Hole-in-the-Rock (Papago Park): A super short hike with a big visual reward.
  
  
• Lookout Mountain Preserve (85022): Gentle elevation and pet-friendly.
  
  
• Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area (South Phoenix): Paved, flat, and stroller-accessible.
  
  

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