8 Amazing Arizona Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love

This short hike starts just outside Mount Lemmon Ski Valley and wanders briefly through the pine, aspen, and fir trees. It’s a nice, steady climb that is almost entirely shaded and will introduce you to a variety of wild mushrooms. Near the end of the trail are a few switchbacks that will require a little extra effort but these equate to less than a quarter mile. Once you reach the top, simply turn around and head back in the same direction!

Miles: 2.4 miles roundtrip
Trail information: Hike Arizona

If there’s any trail from this list that is a must-do, this would be it. One of the many popular trails in Sedona, this just happens to be short, sweet, and absolutely gorgeous. The trail will take you to the bridge, which you can cross if you have the guts to do so!

Miles: 1.8 miles roundtrip
Trail information: U.S. Forest Service

This super easy trail is perfect for those looking for a quick trek into nature that won’t take all day. Seated right along the base of Mount Elden, the trail gives you an incredible view of the old lava flows that still sit on the mountainside and the wide trail makes this easy to navigate.

Miles: 2 miles loop
Trail information: U.S. Forest Service

You’ll find a couple trails at this state park that will introduce you to the desert landscape that sits above the beautiful caverns. For the most part, this trail is an easy walk with gradual inclines. However, there is one section that will take you to Mountain Viewpoint and is a particularly steep climb. If you worry your knees won’t make it up, don’t worry, you can always skip that section and continue on your way.

Miles: 2.5 mile loop
Trail information: Arizona State Parks (click to view the map)

Want to see some incredible rock formations without putting your body through a rigorous hike? Monolith Garden near Kingman is a collection of towering rock formations—hence the name—and is a great way to see some of the lovely desert landscape around the area. It’s especially pretty when the wildflowers are blooming, making this area appear more colorful and more magical than you might expect!

Miles: 1.8 mile loop
Trail information: Hike Arizona

This easy trail is the starting point for a collection of other trails and is a good introduction to the area if you’ve never had the chance to hike the Peaks before. The trail is wide, smooth, and mostly shady for a a slow elevation climb up Mount Elden.

Miles: 3 miles roundtrip
Trail information: U.S. Forest Service

When the day temperatures are cool, you’ll want to check out this easy hike at Lost Dutchman State Park. This loop trail takes you around the base of the Superstition Mountains and is a great introduction to the rugged landscape.

Miles: 2.4 mile loop
Trail information: Arizona State Parks

Located just off the banks of Lake Pleasant, this short trail offers some great views of the lake and mountains nearby. The last 1000 feet are pretty steep but it’s a short portion with views that make the trek worth the effort.

Miles: 1.4 miles one-way
Trail information: Hike Arizona