Those of us living in Arizona know that there's no better place to spend our time than outdoors, especially when it's not too hot. We’re going to celebrate all the beauty that Arizona has to offer with a list of some easy, scenic hikes in our beautiful deserts. Here are some of the best hikes in Arizona for big fans of the desert; check out what we have:
1. Baseline Trail (Estrella Mountain Regional Park)
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)
Get more trail information about Baseline Trail on Arizona State Parks.
2. Calloway Trail (Picacho Peak State Park)
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.
Length: 0.7 miles (one way)
Get more trail information about Picacho Peak State Park on Arizona State Parks.
3. Desert View Trail (Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument)
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.
Length: 1.2 miles (round trip)
Get more trail information about Desert View Trail and Organ Pipe on Arizona State Parks.
4. Garden Valley Loop (Superstition Mountains)
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)
Get more trail information about Garden Valley Loop on Arizona State Parks.
5. Hieroglyphic Trail (Superstition Mountains)
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)
Get more trail information about the Heiroglyphic Trail on Arizona State Parks.
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)
Get more trail information about the Liberty Bell Arch Trail on Arizona State Parks.
7. Mohave Sunset Trail (Lake Havasu State Park)
This hike will probably feel more like an easy stroll with its well-defined trail that overlooks the lake.
Length: 1.75 miles (one way)
Get more trail information about the Mohave Sunset Trail on Arizona State Parks.
8. Sabino Canyon Trail #23 (Tucson)
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)
Get more trail information about Sabino Canyon on Arizona State Parks.
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)
Get more trail information about Wildcat Trail on Arizona State Parks.
Want to see some other fantastically easy Arizona hikes? Check out our recent article 10 Easy Hikes To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List In Arizona for ideas.
Note: Even when the temperatures are lower, please continue to exercise caution when hiking. This includes staying well-hydrated, dressing 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.
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