My Favorite Hikes in Arizona
This guide on my favorite hikes in Arizona provides an overview of the best hikes in Flagstaff, Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and around the Phoenix area.
During the 2 years I lived in Arizona, I spent a lot of my time hiking, camping, and exploring with friends. I wanted to make the most of my time here and I knew there was a lot to see within the state. There are endless amazing landscapes and hikes! Read below to see details about my favorite hikes in Arizona.
Flagstaff Hikes
Humphrey’s Peak
Hike over 3,000 feet in elevation over about 11 miles to the tallest peak in Arizona at 12,633 feet. This is a hard hike, but the views at the top are very rewarding. On a clear day, you can even see the Grand Canyon from the top!
Lockett Meadow Inner Basin Trail or Loop
A shorter hike on Mt. Humphreys at about 3.5 miles and 800 ft elevation. In the fall, this hike has many trees with gorgeous yellow leaves. A great way to experience Fall in Arizona!
Cathedral Rock
A quick 1.2 mile (& 741 ft elevation) hike up to a gorgeous lookout over the Sedona mountains. The first picture below shows the lookout.
Devil’s Bridge
A little longer at 3.9 miles, but also flatter at 521 ft elevation gain, Devil’s Bridge is an easier hike with rewarding views. The second picture below shows the bridge.
Soldier’s Pass
This is a long one too and takes a couple of hours to do at 4.5 miles and 839 ft elevation gain. It takes you through the Sedona wilderness.
Cathedral Rock
Devil's Bridge
Cathedral Rock
Soldier's Pass
Grand Canyon Hikes
Rim Trails
There are a few great rim hike options that will take you down to the Colorado River. These hikes are still on my bucket list!
Havasupai Falls
In the western side of the Grand Canyon is this little miracle, Havasupai. The pictures below attempt to show how blue the water is (yes, it’s that blue!). This trail is currently closed until further notice. When it has been open, it does require advance reservations and permits to enter. Once you have those, this is a 1o-mile 1-way hike down into the Grand Canyon. The first mile you’ll drop in most of the elevation for a relatively gradual hike the rest of the way. But don’t forget, what you hike down, you must hike up. The very last mile of this hike on the way out is the highest in elevation. It is not crazy difficult. Just be sure to be plenty of water and snacks. I recommend staying at least one night here to enjoy the water and explore the various waterfalls or even hike out to the Colorado River. I did this hike in 2016. Unfortunately, since then, I have heard it’s become over populated and resulted in very steep prices for entry, and is now closed until further notice. Just be aware of the current trail/booking status in advance of booking your trip.
Phoenix Hikes
Camelback via Echo Canyon
I couldn’t write about my favorite hikes in Arizona without putting the hike I did almost weekly during my time living there. Camelback via Echo Canyon is right in the city and a great middle-of-the-week hike. At 2.5 miles and 1,420 ft elevation gain, it’s a perfect workout. Just be sure to bring plenty of water because there’s no shade along the trail (besides trying to hide behind a rock scramble). There are 2 routes up Camelback Mountain, Echo Canyon and Cholla. The Echo Canyon Trail is steeper and therefore shorter. This is the one I prefer. If you’re looking to do the easier route, follow the Cholla Trail.
Piestewa Peak
Slightly lesser know than Camelback Mountain is Piestewa Peak. This is another great hike during the week since it is located right in the city. It is similar in distance and difficulty to Camelback.
Hole in The Rock
The Hole in the Rock is less of a hike and more of a quick walk up a hill (0.3 miles) for a pretty rewarding view. Not to mention the rock has a hole in it that is great for photos.
Papago Park Butte Loop
This is another great spot to get an outdoor workout during the week with great views. The Papago Park Butte Loop is 2.2 miles and winds around various rock structures through the desert park. A great place to go for a walk or run.
Sunrise from Camelback
Camelback in the afternoon
View from Camelback Mountain
View of Papago Park from Hole in the Rock
Hole In The Rock
Papago Park Butte Loop
Flatiron
One of the harder hikes I did while living in Arizona was Flatiron. It’s about an hour east of Phoenix in the Superstition Mountains. The hike is 5.5 miles and 2,641 ft in elevation gain. While long and hot, the view from the top does not disappoint. As with any hike in AZ, bring lots of water. I also recommend starting early to help with the heat.
Weavers Needle
Weavers Needle is also about an hour east of Phoenix. This hike is 9.3 miles and has 3,166 ft in elevation gain. It takes you through the deserty wilderness to a Tall “needle” rock structure. You’re likely to see some prickly pears along the way.
Tom’s Thumb
Tom’s Thumb is a 4-mile hike with 1, 236 ft of elevation gain. It ends with a view of a thumb-like rock, aka “Tom’s Thumb.” The hike is located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Weavers Needle
Hiking to Weavers Needle
Hiking to Weavers Needle
Flatiron
I hope this guide to my favorite hikes in Arizona helps plan your future hikes! Feel free to reach out on my Contact page if you have any questions!