Posted in Arizona Nature December 27, 2017 by

You Won’t Want To Miss Hiking These 7 Arizona Desert Trails This Winter

You can tell it’s winter in Arizona’s deserts. The day temperatures are cooler and the sun’s harsh rays feel less intense than the rest of the year. If you’re looking to hit the trails this winter, then you’ll want to check out these hiking trails in our deserts.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
1. Arch Canyon (Organ Pipe National Monument)
J Brew/Flickr
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is a secluded, beautiful location where you’ll find more than just cactus lining hiking trails. Creosote bushes, small juniper trees, seasonal wildflowers, and even wildlife might distract you from the slightly strenuous trek up the mountain.

Miles: 2.6 miles round trip
Trail information: Hike Arizona
2. Arizona Hot Springs via White Rock Canyon (Lake Mead National Recreation Area)
Jeanne/Flickr
How does a winter hike to a hot springs sound? This 6.7-mile hike will show you just how secluded and underestimated Arizona’s northwest region can be. Hike through a rugged canyon and past the Colorado River to the hot springs that averages 111 degrees.

Miles: 6.7 miles round trip
Trail information: Hike Arizona
3. Bridal Wreath Falls Loop (Saguaro National Park)
bob/Flickr
The Rincon Mountains sit on the east side of Tucson and this hike is a great way to see the desert environment here. Overall, the hike is a moderate one that will ensure you get some exercise in for the day, so be prepared for a steady incline during most of the hike. If you want to spot the seasonal waterfall, hit the trail a day or so after it rains.

Miles: 7.2 mile loop
Trail information: Hike Arizona
4. Garden Valley Loop (Superstition Mountains)
Chris J/Flickr
This is a fairly easy trail that will allow you to see the beautiful desert scenery that surrounds the Superstition Mountains. If you time it just right, you might even be able to see the wildflowers bloom in late winter.

Miles: 5.3 miles round trip
Trail information: Arizona Hikers Guide
5. Holbert Trail (South Mountain Park)
Chris J/Flickr
You’ll find around 30 trails going up and down South Mountain, each offering a great opportunity for exercise along with excellent views. This trail not only offers a spectacular end view of Phoenix but keep a lookout for rock art at the beginning of the trail. If you’re looking for a quieter hike, be sure to head out here on a weekday.

Miles: 2.4 miles one-way
Trail information: Hike Arizona
6. Sunset Vista Trail (Picacho Peak State Park)
bob/Flickr
Ready for a challenge? The hike up the towering Picacho Peak is a bit of a doozy since parts of it feel like you’re going straight up and cables are installed to help make the trek up just a tiny bit easier. The views from the top, however, are worth it.

Miles: 5.67 miles round trip
Trail information: Hike Arizona
7. Waterfall Trail (White Tank Mountain Regional Park)
marksontok/Flickr
If a short and scenic trail is more your style, then you’ll like this one on the western edge of Phoenix. If you head out here a day or two after a good rain storm, you’ll not only see the desert come alive but you might also get a chance to see a natural waterfall!

Miles: 2 miles round trip
Trail information: Hike Arizona

Don’t mind a bit of snow during your hike? Read 7 Picturesque Trails In Arizona That Are Perfect For Winter Hiking for a few suggestions.