These 7 Urban Hiking Trails In Arizona Prove That Captivating Views Are Just Steps Away

Arizona has no shortage of scenic views or hiking trails but did you know you don’t need to travel far to find a quality hiking trail? Our urban areas actually some pretty amazing trails, both within the cities and just beyond them. Let’s take a look at some that you will find around the state!

bob/Flickr

This trail sits right at the edge of Tucson in the Rincon Mountains and features a lovely seasonal waterfall, which flows after a rainstorm or the snowmelt. The trail is a moderate level with some steep inclines and it measures 7.2 miles in length.

Hiking details: Hike Arizona

Alan English CPA/Flickr

With a steep incline, 2.3 miles in total length, and some amazing views of Phoenix, it’s no wonder this trail is incredibly popular! You’ll almost always find people hiking this trail but if you want to avoid the major crowds, we recommend hiking on a weekday.

Hiking details: Hike Arizona

Coconino National Forest/Flickr

This is a pretty nice loop trail in Flagstaff and the trailhead is located not far from the mall. It ascends up a portion of Mount Elden and offers one spectacular view of town. The trail measures 2.5 miles overall and you’ll find that your legs will get a workout from the incline!

Hiking details: Hike Arizona

Paul Heasman/Flickr

Every Sun Devil at the Arizona State University Tempe campus has reached the top of "A" Mountain, as it is otherwise known, at least once. The entire trail is less than one mile (in fact, it is just barely 0.66 miles overall) and the incline is actually not as intimidating as you might think. In fact, you’ll often find children heading up the butte.

Hiking details: Hike Arizona

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy/Flickr

Following a former rail line from the 1890s, this 6-mile trail in Prescott still has some hints that a railroad used to exist here, such as the signs dotting the trail. It also features some very pretty views of Watson Lake and the Granite Dells.

Hiking details: City of Prescott

Ted Eytan/Flickr

This trail is just over 3 miles up and back but it’s a real workout! The trail shows off just how incredible the views are at Piestewa Peak and you’ll get a nice workout from the steep inclines.

Hiking details: Hike Arizona

Dave Bezaire/Flickr

Tucson is surrounded by mountains and you’ll want to see the trails at this 800+ acre preserve in the Tucson Mountains foothills. This trail is just over 7 miles but you can always shorten it by opting out of the second loop.

Hiking details: Hike Arizona

Ready to explore more of Arizona this year? Read about some particularly scenic trails that include a bit of history in These 9 Arizona Hiking Trails Lead To Some Incredible Pieces Of History.