Well, it seems like summer is officially over. Those of us living in Arizona’s hot regions are rejoicing at the lower, double digit temperatures and that means we’ll also be engaging in more outdoor activities. Yay! We’re going to celebrate that with a list of some easy, scenic hikes in Arizona’s beautiful deserts. Check out what we have:
(Note: Even though the temperatures are lower now, please continue to exercise caution when hiking. This includes staying well-hydrated, dress appropriately for the environment, keeping an eye out for wildlife, and staying on the trail. You can find additional tips on the Arizona Hikers Guide website.)
This is a relatively easy trail that takes you in a small loop in the north end of the park near the Gila River. The trail is easy to navigate and gives you a chance to explore the mountains’ foothills.
Length: 2.5 miles (round trip)
Trail Information: Hike Arizona
Want to enjoy the views of Picacho Peak without the strenuous trail straight up? Calloway Trail will take you to a lookout on the south side of the peak.
You’ll find quite a few trails at this park and this one takes you on a loop near the visitors center that will give you a perfect view of a wide variety of cactus and other Sonoran Desert plant life. The trail also acts as an interpretive one with biological information and also how the plants are used by indigenous peoples.
If you want an easy trail near the Superstitions without too much of a crowd, you’ll want to check out this one! It’s a scenic area with plenty of plant growth and won’t make you think twice about the source of the trail name.
Length: 5.25 miles (round trip)
Trail Information: Hike Arizona
This is a pretty short trail near the Superstitions that shows off the desert landscape here and a little bit of history with pictographs clearly displayed. Visiting when the wildflowers are blooming makes this trail look extra pretty if you time it right.
Length: 3 miles (round trip)
Trail Information: Hike Arizona
6. Liberty Bell Arch Trail (Lake Mead National Recreation Area)
Want to see some of the cool landscapes along the Colorado River and near Lake Mead? This trail can be a little steep and has little to no shade, so definitely hike this one when the weather is cool. However, you’ll find some beautiful rock formations like the Liberty Bell Arch above.
Length: 5 miles (round trip)
Trail Information: Hike Arizona
The most difficult part of this trail will be the first half mile or so, where you are hiking up steep switchbacks. From there on, it’s smooth sailing and you’ll encounter some beautiful views of the canyon.
Length: 2.65 miles (one-way)
Trail Information: Hike Arizona
9. Wildcat Trail (Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park)
If you want an up close view of the Mittens at Monument Valley, this is the trail to take. The loop trail can be a little difficult to navigate for some but if you pay attention, you’ll be able to stay on the trail.
Length: 3.2 miles (round trip)
Trail Information: Hike Arizona
