Discover the Best of Arizona's Great Outdoors on a Phoenix to Sedona Road Trip As an outdoor enthusiast and avid hiker, you're in luck if you're visiting or living near Phoenix!
Discover the Best of Arizona's Great Outdoors on a Phoenix to Sedona Road Trip
As an outdoor enthusiast and avid hiker, you're in luck if you're visiting or living near Phoenix! The Sonoran Desert offers endless opportunities to connect with nature, and we've got the scoop on the top 10 free day hikes near Phoenix. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, these trails will take your breath away.
Hike #1: Camelback Mountain's Echo Canyon Trail
Just a stone's throw from downtown Phoenix, Camelback Mountain's Echo Canyon Trail offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. This 2-mile round-trip hike is perfect for beginners, with minimal elevation gain and plenty of shade.
- Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 1 mile each way (2 miles total)
- Elevation gain: Minimal
Hike #2: Papago Park's Hole-in-the-Rock Trail
Located in the heart of Phoenix, Papago Park's Hole-in-the-Rock Trail is a must-hike for any outdoor enthusiast. This 0.8-mile loop takes you through stunning sandstone formations and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Distance: 0.4 miles each way (0.8 miles total)
- Elevation gain: Minimal
Hike #3: Four Peaks Wilderness's Hieroglyphic Canyon Trail
Located about an hour north of Phoenix, the Four Peaks Wilderness offers some of Arizona's most spectacular hiking trails. The Hieroglyphic Canyon Trail is a 1-mile loop that takes you through ancient petroglyphs and stunning natural rock formations.
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Distance: 0.5 miles each way (1 mile total)
- Elevation gain: Minimal
Hike #4: Superstition Mountains' Flatiron Trail
Located just east of Phoenix, the Superstition Mountains offer some of Arizona's most rugged and scenic hiking trails. The Flatiron Trail is a challenging 3-mile out-and-back hike that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Difficulty level: Strenuous
- Distance: 1.5 miles each way (3 miles total)
- Elevation gain: Significant
Hike #5: Sycamore Creek Wilderness's Oak Creek Trail
Located about an hour north of Phoenix, the Sycamore Creek Wilderness offers some of Arizona's most beautiful hiking trails. The Oak Creek Trail is a 2-mile out-and-back hike that takes you through stunning natural rock formations and along the serene Oak Creek.
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Distance: 1 mile each way (2 miles total)
- Elevation gain: Minimal
Hike #6: McDowell Sonoran Preserve's Lost Dog Trail
Located just north of Scottsdale, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers some of Arizona's most scenic hiking trails. The Lost Dog Trail is a 4-mile out-and-back hike that takes you through stunning natural rock formations and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Distance: 2 miles each way (4 miles total)
- Elevation gain: Significant
Hike #7: Tonto National Forest's Four Peaks Trail
Located about an hour north of Phoenix, the Tonto National Forest offers some of Arizona's most rugged and scenic hiking trails. The Four Peaks Trail is a challenging 6-mile out-and-back hike that takes you through stunning natural rock formations and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Difficulty level: Strenuous
- Distance: 3 miles each way (6 miles total)
- Elevation gain: Significant
Hike #8: Superstition Mountains' Sycamore Creek Trail
Located just east of Phoenix, the Superstition Mountains offer some of Arizona's most rugged and scenic hiking trails. The Sycamore Creek Trail is a 3-mile out-and-back hike that takes you through stunning natural rock formations and along the serene Sycamore Creek.
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Distance: 1.5 miles each way (3 miles total)
- Elevation gain: Minimal
Hike #9: White Tank Mountain Regional Park's Hieroglyphic Trail
Located just west of Phoenix, White Tank Mountain Regional Park offers some of Arizona's most scenic hiking trails. The Hieroglyphic Trail is a 2-mile loop that takes you through ancient petroglyphs and stunning natural rock formations.
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Distance: 1 mile each way (2 miles total)
- Elevation gain: Minimal
Hike #10: McDowell Sonoran Preserve's Tom's Thumb Trail
Located just north of Scottsdale, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers some of Arizona's most scenic hiking trails. The Tom's Thumb Trail is a 1-mile loop that takes you through stunning natural rock formations and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Distance: 0.5 miles each way (1 mile total)
- Elevation gain: Minimal
Tips for Your Phoenix to Sedona Road Trip
Before embarking on your hiking adventure, be sure to:
- Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layers for changing temperatures.
- Respect the natural environment and wildlife.
Getting There and What to Expect
The best time to visit these trails is during the fall and spring months when temperatures are mild. Be sure to check the official websites for each trail for up-to-date information on trail conditions, fees (if applicable), and hours of operation.
Practical Info:
- Hours: Vary by trail; check official website for details.
- Fees: None (except for White Tank Mountain Regional Park, which charges a $3 day-use fee).
- Location hints:
+ Papago Park is located at 625 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004. + Camelback Mountain is accessible from E Lincoln Dr or E McDonald Dr. + Superstition Mountains are accessible via Highway 60.
More Information
For more information on these trails and others in the area, visit the Arizona State Parks website or check out the official websites for each trail. Happy hiking!