9 Hiking Trails In Arizona Perfect For A Winter's Day
By Katie Lawrence|Updated on November 16, 2022(Originally published November 11, 2022)
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Most people don’t associate winter with hiking, but we Arizonans are a different breed. From the snow-covered rock walls of the Grand Canyon to panoramic sunset views from atop Camelback Mountain, here are the nine best winter hikes in Arizona! Planning on doing some hiking in Arizona in December? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Check them out!
Spanning 16,000 acres, South Mountain is one of the country's largest municipal parks. National Trail is 14.3 miles long, but you certainly don't have to hike the entire thing. Whether for an all-day adventure or quick afternoon stroll, there's no better way to experience Phoenix - especially when the weather is comfortable. There are many wonderful potential AZ winter hikes at South Mountain, but this one is our favorite.
Bring the whole family out for a day at Pass Mountain, with the 3.2-mile Wind Cave Trail offering an unforgettable adventure for all ages. At some point along the way, you'll come upon a massive natural arch that almost serves as a window to the beautiful desert surroundings. Not only are the views breathtaking, but several different plant species growing from the ceiling also make it well worth the effort.
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3. Seven Falls Trail (Tucson)
Seven Falls, 5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA
Clocking in at 8.5 miles long, the Bear Canyon Trail to Seven Falls is suitable for most skill levels and is rated moderate. Hiding deep within the rocky landscape is a breathtaking fountain of youth that attracts visitors from all over the world: Seven Falls. This tiered waterfall cascades down into the natural pools below, its gentle trickle evoking feelings of utter tranquility. This is one incredible waterfall hike in Arizona that will blow your mind.
Short and sweet, the iconic Thumb Butte Trail 33 hike is only two miles long but nearly leads all the way up to Thumb Butte's summit. Once you've climbed up all the way, an offshoot trail provides incredible views of mountains far away in the distance. It can get a tad icy during the winter, so just be sure to keep an eye out for slick patches.
Since 2004, Yuma has been working with the Quechan Indian Tribe to restore 350 of the nearly 450,000 acres of wetlands destroyed over the past few centuries. Today, you can explore this unique terrain on the three-mile East Wetlands Interpretive Trail. Beginning at Gateway Park, the hike leads through marshes as well as willow and cottonwood trees, making for an adventure that simply can't be found anywhere else in Arizona.
6. Echo Canyon Trail (Phoenix)
Echo Canyon Trailhead, E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA
Echo Canyon Trail is the quickest way up Camelback Mountain, clocking in at just 2.4 miles. It is relatively tough, with an elevation gain of more than 1,000 feet, but the effort definitely pays off. Just look at that view!
It's easy to say that winter is the best time to visit Agassiz Peak — because it isn't open during any other season! Snow protects the fragile environment, which is crucial due to the entire trail being unpaved. It's a six-mile trek with an elevation gain of 3,000 feet, but it's pretty clear that the reward is worth every step. This is a challenging hike in Arizona that's sure to be incredibly rewarding.
Bell Rock is one of the most popular natural landmarks in Arizona, likely due to its alleged healing powers. This notoriety leads to some serious summertime crowds, so this time of year is your best bet. Plus, check out that scenery!
Many people think the Grand Canyon is closed during winter, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Rim Trail is most definitely open, a well-paved path leading to some of the canyon's most iconic overlooks. If you've never seen our state's namesake covered in snow, it's truly an awe-inspiring sight to behold.
So, there you have it: nine of the all-time best hiking trails in Arizona to embark upon during the winter. After all, what better time of year to do so? Temperatures are mild (if not chilly, depending on where you end up), and even the snowy areas aren’t as out-of-control as you might think at this time of year. Dress warm and enjoy!
How many of these winter hiking trails in AZ have you hiked during wintertime? Did we leave off any of your favorites? Do you have any plans for hiking in Arizona in December this year? Let us know!
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More to Explore
Hiking In Arizona In December
Tori Jane|November 16, 2022
Where should I go hiking in Arizona in December?
There are plenty of options for hiking in Arizona in December. The best part about Arizona winters is that they tend to be mild, even in the snowiest of regions. Some of the best hiking trails to do in Arizona in December are:
2. What are some of the best winter hikes in Arizona?
The list of best winter hikes in Arizona doesn’t simply end with the above-mentioned ideas; there are plenty more that you’re sure to love. Other excellent winter hikes in AZ include:
3. Which winter hikes in Arizona should I add to my hiking bucket list?
Some of the winter hikes in Arizona are SO amazing that they belong on the ol’ bucket list. Some of the ultimate winter bucket list hikes in Arizona are:
