Hey Explorer!! Are you looking for the best hikes in Phoenix? We got you!! Phoenix has endless hiking opportunities. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, these best hikes in Phoenix are what you are looking for. Imagine hiking in Phoenix, escaping the busy life, exploring these beautiful valleys, and seeing this wonderful place’s scenic views.

We are listing the top 10 best hikes in Phoenix as well as the hidden gems where you can escape the busy crowds and enjoy breathtaking views:

Top 10 best hikes in Phoenix for 2024

1. Piestewa Peak

It is the most recommended hike in Phoenix. Piestewa Peak requires effort to conquer! It is such a challenging hike that I like to call the stair master because it feels like you’re climbing the Eiffel Tower.
This hike is located in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, just 15 minutes from downtown, so you can bet it gets crowded.

The parking lot isn’t huge, so you may take a few extra steps to reach the trailhead, but I promise it is worth it for the views. Please arrive early to snag parking, beat the sun, or set it right for sunset.

Distance: 1.9 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,209 feet

Difficulty: Moderate

2. Papago Park Trails

The west-facing city views from the top make it an excellent spot to enjoy the sparkling Arizona sunsets that make this hike in Phoenix unique. Papago Park is also home to some of the best things to do in Phoenix and one of the best hikes in Phoenix. Don’t forget to check out the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Gardens before ending your day with a hike to this lovely lookout.

Distance: Various

Elevation Gain: Varies

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

3. Shaw Butte Trail

Shaw Butte Trail is a short but scenic loop trail located in Ahwatukee. The trail takes you through a picturesque desert landscape, with views of the buttes, saguaro cacti, and surrounding mountains.
Discover this 6.8-km out-and-back trail near Phoenix, Arizona. This area is trendy for hiking, running, and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring this place.

Distance: 1.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 200 feet

Difficulty: Easy

4. Camelback Mountain – Echo Canyon

Camelback Mountain hike in Phoenix has two popular trails: Echo Canyon (shorter, steeper, requires scrambling) and Cholla (scenic, longer). Both lead to stunning city and mountain views. The Echo Canyon Trailhead, 22 minutes from downtown, closes at dusk. 

Distance: 2.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,420 feet

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

5. South Kaibab Trail

When hiking in Phoenix, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the Grand Canyon! The South Rim is the closest part to Phoenix, and the place offers stunning views, especially at sunrise.

The South Kaibab Trail is so unique that you don’t have to hike the whole thing. Just go down to OOH-AAH Point, about 0.9 miles down the trail, making it a 1.8-mile round trip.

That’s all you need to experience the canyon’s grandeur and see it from below the rim.
Sunrise on this trail is one of my favourite hiking experiences—incredibly beautiful! Hence, it is one of the best hikes in Phoenix.

Distance: 1.8-14.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 521-4,880 feet

Difficulty: Easy – Difficult

6. Pinnacle Peak Trail

Pinnacle Peak Trail is a popular and well-kept path that offers fantastic views of North Scottsdale. It’s ideal for newcomers seeking a moderate challenge—you’ll ascend over 1,000 feet, but the climb is spread across several miles.

Seeing the orange, yellow, purple, and pink flowers against the bright blue Arizona sky is breathtaking. The trail offers flowers in May, June, and August. 
This trail is excellent for hiking with kids, running, bird watching, and enjoying the flowers.

Unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed on this trail, but there are plenty of other hikes where you can bring your furry friend!

Elevation Gain: 700 feet

Difficulty: Moderate

7. McDowell Sonoran Preserve Loop

The McDowell Sonoran Preserve Loop is one of the most challenging hikes in Phoenix for a few reasons. First, it’s a long hike—more than 14 miles of rocky trail, so be ready for a full-day trek. Plus, it’s got some uphill severe sections. There are also some excellent rock climbing routes along the way. You will have to climb 4,000 feet to get the view. 

This trail can get tricky in places. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve Loop is great for experienced hikers who want an authentic outdoor adventure in the Sonoran Desert.

Distance: Various

Elevation Gain: Varies

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

8. Flatiron Trail

The Flatiron hike is tough, especially for beginners. Experienced hikers will handle it well, but beginners should exercise added caution. Some parts of the trail are almost straight up and down, and others are rough and rocky. Plan for a full-day hike, at least 6 hours, and bring plenty of water, good hiking shoes, and snacks.

The views from Lost Dutchman State Park are amazing and make the hard hike worth it. The Superstition Mountains are the most stunning thing while hiking in the Phoenix area. Just starting this trail for the views alone is worthwhile. Bring camping gear, too, as this is one of the best places to camp in Phoenix, Arizona, and one of the best hikes in Phoenix.

Distance: 2.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 700 feet

Difficulty: Moderate

 9. Wave Cave

One of the most incredible cave hikes near Phoenix is the Wave Cave. It’s in the Superstition Mountains, which are big mountains on the east side of the valley with great trails. The Wave Cave hike is an excellent way to explore these rugged mountains.
Getting to the trailhead involves a bit of driving, but it’s easy to find. You’ll drive down a dirt road, but don’t worry, you don’t need a particular car. If you go on this hike, you’ll leave the city behind and enjoy peace.
Reading the complete trail guide is a good idea if you want to take a famous photo at the Wave Cave. 

Hiking Distance: 3.0 miles

Elevation Gain: 890 feet

Difficulty: Moderate

10. Battleship Mountain

If you’re looking for a challenge, this one’s for you! My all-time favorite hike in the Superstition Mountains is Battleship Mountain, which is not to be underestimated. Between the long mileage and strenuous scrambling, your body will be depleted, and you will crave a full meal afterward.
If you’re looking for a challenge, this one’s for you. 

Hiking Distance: 12.0 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet

Difficulty: Difficult

Conclusion

Phoenix offers a variety of hiking trails that showcase the beauty and diversity of the Sonoran Desert and offer adventure. Whether looking for a stroll or a challenging, adventurous one, you’ll find the perfect hike in this vibrant city. The harshness of the desert heat can be prevented through sunscreen & plenty of other precautions.

Enjoy these best hikes in Phoenix!!

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