Posted in Arizona
May 19, 2020
Here’s The Ultimate Bucket List For Arizonans Who Are Obsessed With Hiking
It’s been a while since we last put together a comprehensive list of Arizona hikes, so this is long overdue. If your outdoor adventure bucket list is looking a little empty, these 13 trails are definitely worthy of checking out!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Leading down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, Bright Angel Trail is just under 18 miles long and easily among the most strenuous hikes in Arizona. It easily takes about 10 hours out-and-back, so consider spending the night at Bright Angel Campground to break up the trip. Don't attempt this hike uninformed -- you'll want to do plenty of research about necessary precautions to take and essential items to bring along. Nevertheless, these views are undoubtedly worth the effort! More information here.
At just 1.8 miles round-trip, Devil's Bridge Trail is an extremely popular Sedona hike. It only features a 400-foot elevation gain, so the main attraction is almost definitely more breathtaking than the journey to get there. You can either stand beneath the largest natural sandstone arch in the area or even walk across it (carefully, of course!) More information here.
We'd be remiss not to include this highly exclusive, yet immensely famed trail, which draws explorers from all over the world. Featuring three waterfalls, this overnight backpacking hike is a whopping 12 miles from the trailhead to campground. Permits are required, and it can sometimes take years to successfully obtain one, but once you have one, it's worth its weight in gold. More information here.
The highest point in Arizona, Humphrey's Peak towers at an impressive 12,633 feet. While you can observe the mount from a distance, nothing compares to actually conquering it firsthand. On clear days, you can see the Grand Canyon from the summit! The trail is open year-round, but make sure to be overly cautious during winter due to snow and ice. More information here.
Often attributed to Utah, this otherworldly landmark is actually located just south of the state line. There's no official trail, but a hiker's path has been established. There are a number of unique natural features to observe along the way, so enjoy! You'll also need a permit for this hike, which you must win via a lottery system. More information here.
So named due to its vantage point that once allowed outlaws to plan their next move, Robbers Roost Trail is an incredible gem in the Sedona area. It's three miles long and moderately easy, thus suitable for most skill levels. Please note: if you don't have a high-clearance vehicle, you may need to park at the bottom of the road and hike an extra ~1.5 miles to the trailhead. More information here.
At just 2.2 miles long, this summit trail ascends over 1,000 feet up to Piestewa Peak. It's one of the most popular hikes in Phoenix, and for good reason -- the views are simply incredible! The climb is fairly arduous, but given the reward, you won't hear many complaints. More information here.
The only self-guided hike in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Wildcat Trail is a four-mile loop that leads through the iconic Merrick and Mitten Buttes we all know and love. The scenery is truly unparalleled! More information here.
Bell Rock is one of the most iconic scenes in Arizona, its red rocky landscape encompassing everything we hold dear about our home state. It's a relatively leisurely walk (provided you don't try to scramble up the rock itself), and the views of lush greenery juxtaposed against arid desert are simply awe-inspiring. More information here.
Within the mysterious Lost Dutchman State Park, this 5.5-mile out-and-back trail features an elevation gain of more than 2,500 feet. There's a fair amount of rock scrambling, so wear shoes with a good grip, but the striking panoramic views of the city below are definitely bucket list-worthy. More information here.
Among the longer hikes on the list, Weavers Needle clocks in at 12.4 miles. It's difficult, for sure, but the breathtaking vistas are worth every drop of sweat. There are plenty of spots to camp along the way, if you'd like. More information here.
Mormon Loop to National Trail Loop is a heavily trafficked hike in South Mountain Preserve, showcasing incredible views of the entire Valley. It's about five miles long and moderately challenging, so expect a solid workout (with a wonderful payoff, however!) More information here.
Easily one of the most magical hikes in Sedona, West Fork Trail winds through the banks of the pristine Oak Creek Canyon. It has been ranked among the top ten trails in the entire country, and we'd have to agree -- especially in the fall! More information here.
Some or all of these trails might either be closed or operating with temporary restrictions, so visit the AllTrails page or contact park officials before heading out.
How many of these trails have you hiked? Did we leave off any of your favorites? Let us know, and check out our previous article to learn more about Devil’s Bridge: The Magnificent Bridge Trail In Arizona That Will Lead You To A Hidden Overlook.
Are there any restaurants, businesses, or other attractions in Arizona you think the world should know about? Head over to our nomination page and give them a shoutout — you just might see your submission featured in an upcoming article!
Address: Devil's Bridge Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
Address: Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA
Address: Havasu Falls Trail, Supai, AZ 86435, USA
Address: The Wave Trail, Kanab, UT, USA
Address: Robbers Roost, Sedona, AZ 86351, USA
Address: Bell Rock Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
Address: Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536, USA
Address: Humphreys Trail, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA
Address: Piestewa Peak Summit Trail, Phoenix, AZ 85016, USA
Address: Mormon Loop Trail, Phoenix, AZ 85042, USA
Address: Siphon Draw, Apache Junction, AZ 85120, USA
Address: Weavers Needle, Arizona 85118, USA
