Best Hikes in Phoenix
Find the trail that suits your skill level, from easy walks like Hole-in-the-Rock to challenging climbs like Camelback Mountain.
Phoenix is a hiker’s paradise, with its sprawling desert landscapes, towering saguaro cacti, and trails for every skill level. Not sure of your skill level? Review the Phoenix Parks & Rec Trail Rating Guide.
Whether you're at the start or end of your Arizona road trip—in a Phoenix RV rental from Blacksford—plan some extra time to explore nearby trails.
Keep reading for the best hikes around Phoenix to make the most of your adventure.
Easy Hikes for Beginners & Families
Papago Park – Hole-in-the-Rock Trail
Joe Flood from Washington, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Map: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 9 miles
Round Trip Hike: 1/3 mile, less than 30 minutes
Hole-in-the-Rock Trail is a quick and easy trail that leads to a natural rock formation with a “window” in the sandstone overlooking the city. Perfect for everyone in your group, and conveniently located next to the Phoenix Zoo, it’s a great spot to enjoy the sunset and snap a few photos.
Ample parking is available near the trailhead, with spaces suitable for larger vehicles, including RVs.
Dreamy Draw Nature Trail
Map: 2421 E Northern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85020
Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 11 miles
Round Trip Hike: 1.5 miles (1.5 hours)
After a gentle incline, the Dreamy Draw Nature Trail reveals stunning desert vistas. It’s beginner-friendly and ideal for a relaxed hike with kids. Part of the Dreamy Draw Recreation Area, this route features local desert plants like palo verde trees and wildflowers in springtime.
A spacious parking lot accommodates larger vehicles and is RV-friendly. There are bathrooms and water fountains at the trailhead.
Hawk’s Nest Trail
Map: Start at the Desert Vista Trailhead
Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 25 miles
Round Trip Hike: 5.6 miles (2 hours)
Part of the Sonoran Preserve Trails, the gently sloping Hawk’s Nest loop trail has minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for all ages. Kids will love spotting wildlife like jackrabbits and roadrunners along the way.
A spacious parking lot accommodates larger vehicles, including RVs.
Lost Dog Wash Trail
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
Map: 12601 N 124th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85259
Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 28 miles – in nearby Scottsdale
Round Trip Hike: 2.5 miles, 1 hour
This easy, well-marked Lost Dog Wash Trail features educational signs that teach kids about desert plants and animals. It’s perfect for families looking to explore the Sonoran Desert without much effort.
Ample parking is available with spacious spots suitable for RVs.
Explore Phoenix Trailheads in a Blacksford RV!
Moderate Hikes
Lookout Mountain Summit Trail
Map: 15600 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85022
Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 18 miles
Round Trip Hike: 1.2 miles, 45 minutes
The Lookout Mountain Summit Trail is a short but rewarding climb with panoramic views of North Phoenix. It’s less crowded than Camelback or Piestewa Peak (listed below), making it a great option for a quieter adventure.
You’ll find a small parking lot at the trailhead, suitable for standard vehicles but tight for RVs. Use nearby street parking for larger vehicles.
Charles M. Christiansen Memorial Trail #100
Map: Start at the North Mountain Visitor Center
Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 12 miles
Round Trip Hike: 13 miles, about 4 hours, 20 mins
The Charles M. Christiansen Memorial Trail—also known as Trail 100—is part of the larger trail network through the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, with rolling hills, desert scenery, and stunning views of the city Phoenix skyline.
The out-and-back trail is well-marked and less steep than other Phoenix hikes, making it accessible for most hikers.
The visitor center has a large parking lot, water fountains, and restrooms.
Challenging Hikes for Experienced Hikers
Camelback Mountain – Echo Canyon Trail
Map: 4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 13 miles - in nearby Scottsdale
Round Trip Hike: 2.5 miles, 2 hours
One of the area's most iconic hikes, the extremely difficult Echo Canyon Trail has steep inclines, rock scrambles, and unmatched 360-degree views of the city. It’s best tackled early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat. Prepare for a 1,400-foot elevation gain.
Limited parking is available at the trailhead and fills quickly. Larger vehicles like RVs over 21 feet are not recommended.
Piestewa Peak Summit Trail
Map: 5594 Piestewa Peak Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 9 miles
Round Trip Hike: 2.3 miles, 2.5 hours
There’s a reason the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail is so popular: It rewards hikers with expansive views of the city after a very steep and rocky climb up 1,200 feet. Bring your trekking poles, especially for the descent.
Trailhead parking is available, but larger RVs will have a hard time fitting into spots.
Flatiron via Siphon Draw Trail (Superstition Mountains)
Map: Begin from the Lost Dutchman State Park parking lot
Distance from Downtown Phoenix: 33 miles
Round Trip Hike: 5.5 miles, 5 hours
A strenuous, full-day hike with significant elevation gain, the Siphon Draw to Flatiron out-and-back trail rewards hikers with stunning views from the Flatiron summit. It’s a difficult, bucket-list hike for adventurous outdoor-lovers.
Park within Lost Dutchman State Park, which has designated parking for RVs.
Note: A $7 day pass is required for Lost Dutchman State Park.
When to Hike in Phoenix
Explore Phoenix’s trails from October through April when temperatures are cooler. No matter when you head out, it’s best to start early in the morning or around sunset to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Weather and Trail Tips
Avoid Monsoon Season (July - September): Afternoon storms can cause flash flooding, especially in washes and canyons. Check weather forecasts and avoid hiking during or after heavy rain.
Be Aware of Wildlife: Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and other desert animals are active year-round, particularly in warm weather. Stay on marked trails and be aware of your surroundings.
Plan Around Crowds: Popular trails like Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak can get crowded during peak seasons. Plan your hikes for weekdays or early mornings to avoid the rush.
Visit Top Phoenix Trailheads in a Blacksford RV
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly paths or bucket-list adventures, these trails showcase the best of the desert landscape.
Ready to plan your Phoenix adventure? Book your RV rental to make your trip even more enjoyable.