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Everyone Can Hike! 10 Best Scenic Trails for Low-Key Lit Walks in Phoenix
Okay, so picture this: It’s a sunny Phoenix morning (because when isn’t it sunny here?), and you’re just vibing, thinking, “I gotta get out and move, but like… make it chill.” You grab your water bottle and hit up one of the many best scenic walking trails Phoenix has to offer.
We’re talking scenic desert paths where every corner is basically an IG story waiting to happen. These trails radiate main-character energy, offering options from a relaxed stroll to a workout that still feels low-key.
Ready to discover what’s good? Check out this list of the top trails around Metro Phoenix—your future self will thank you for the fresh air and those golden-hour views.
1. Hole-in-the-Rock Trail
Media credit: tempetourism
Address: Papago Park, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA
Distance: 0.3 (0.5 km)
Elevation gain: 45.9 ft (14 m)
Estimated time: 56 minutes
Route Type: Out and back
Papago Park’s Hole-in-the-Rock Trail is an iconic destination with a short path leading to a striking natural rock formation. Get your cam ready for a panoramic view of the Phoenix skyline.
This 0.3-mile (0.5 km) round-trip trail is mostly flat with a mild incline, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. Its rock formation features a unique opening, resembling a window that offers an unforgettable spot to take in the view or snap photos of the surrounding landscape.
You can spend the rest of the day exploring other parts of Papago Park, including fishing lagoons, picnic areas, and the nearby Desert Botanical Garden. With its central location and range of activities, Papago Park is a convenient and rewarding stop for a quick escape into nature.
| Pro tip: Beat the crowds and soak in the serenity by visiting on a weekday for a peaceful escape at this stunning spot! |
2. Tempe Town Lake Trail
Media credit: tempetourism
Address: Tempe, Arizona 85281
Length: 7.4 mi (11.9 km)
Elevation gain: 68.9 ft (21 m)
Estimated time: 1 hr. And 6 minutes
Route Type: Out and back
If you’re looking for a great outdoor experience, you need to check out Tempe Town Lake Trail. We love this 5-mile loop because it wraps around the lake, giving you stunning waterfront views and plenty of shaded spots to take a break. The flat, paved path is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, and it’s a favorite among locals for good reason.
What really draws us in is how accessible the trail is, with plenty of resting spots when you need a breather. On top of that, having cafes and shops nearby means you can easily grab a bite or a drink afterward, which we always appreciate!
And if you visit on the weekend, you’ll want to keep an eye out for events happening around the lake. We love the local festivals and sports events that add extra energy to the atmosphere, making each visit feel special. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement that keeps us coming back for more!
| Pro tip: Look for weekend community events or festivals around the lake for extra fun and activities! |
3. Arizona Canal Path
Media credit: arizonadoingthings/
Address: Phoenix, AZ 85018
Length: 3.6 mi (5.8 km)
Elevation gain: 26.2 ft (8 m)
Estimated time: 1 hr. And 3 minutes
Route Type: Out and back
You’re going to love the Arizona Canal Path—it’s a favorite among Phoenix locals! The flat, paved path winds alongside a historic canal and connects various neighborhoods and parks, making it a fantastic place to explore. The peaceful water views and shaded areas are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick commute by foot or bike.
What’s great is that you can customize the length of your outing depending on where you jump in, so it’s ideal whether you’re in the mood for a short walk or a longer adventure.
We can’t get enough of the benches and picnic spots along the way; they make it easy to relax and soak in the scenic greenery. Adding to that are the lush trees lining the canal create such a refreshing vibe, making it a lovely escape even in the warmer months. Trust us, this trail is a gem you won’t want to miss!
| Pro tip: Take a breather at Granada Park and enjoy the serene greenery during your walk! |
4. Piestewa Peak Nature Trail Loop
Media credit: jenjenntx/
Address: Phoenix, AZ 85016
Length: 1.3 mi (2.1 km)
Elevation gain: 269 ft (82 m)
Estimated Time: 40 minutes
Route Type: Loop
We absolutely love the 1.5-mile nature trail loop around Piestewa Peak and highly recommend it to you! It’s a great alternative to the more challenging summit routes, as it’s mostly flat with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for walkers of all ages and skill levels.
As you walk, you’ll enjoy the scenic desert flora, including stunning saguaro cacti and prickly pear, giving you a taste of Arizona’s unique landscapes. We appreciated the benches and shaded areas along the trail, perfect for a quick break to soak in the beauty around you.
If you’re into birdwatching, keep an eye out for cactus wrens, quails, and other desert birds. This trail is truly a gem for a short, peaceful walk in nature!
| Pro tip: Don’t forget your binoculars—cactus wrens and quail are waiting for you to spot them! |
5. Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt
Media credit: scottsdaleparksandrec/
Address: Scottsdale, AZ 85250,
Length: 12 mi (19.3 km)
Elevation gain: 347.8 ft (106 m)
Estimated Time: 3 hours and 45 minutes
Route Type: Point to point
We’re big fans of the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt! This extensive 11-mile pathway winds through lush parks, playgrounds, and scenic lakes in Scottsdale, making it a fantastic choice for a day out.
The trail connects several parks, including Chaparral, Eldorado, and McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. You can pause for a picnic, enjoy shaded walkways, or explore the playgrounds and sports fields along the way.
This greenbelt is a relaxing, family-friendly area with plenty of parking, shaded spots, and beautiful views for birdwatching and enjoying the lakes. You can start or end your walk at any of the parks, making it a versatile trail for everyone!
| Pro tip: Kick off your adventure at Eldorado Park for easy parking and shady picnic spots! |
6. Dreamy Draw Nature Trail
Media credit: alphabetresolutions
Address: 2498 E Northern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85028
Length: 3.9 mi (6.3 km)
Elevation gain: 623.4 ft (190 m)
Estimated Time: 1 hr 46 minutes
Route Type: Loop
We absolutely cherish the easygoing trail at Dreamy Draw! It winds gracefully through stunning desert landscapes, where low hills and rocky outcrops create a rugged charm that’s hard to resist.
This well-kept trail is perfect for a relaxing stroll, surrounded by the iconic saguaro cacti and cholla. Dog walkers love it here, and the expansive space allows for plenty of room for your pets to explore.
Come spring, the trail comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, adding brilliant hues to the desert backdrop. With handy picnic areas and restrooms, it’s an ideal destination for a leisurely half-day outing with your family!
| Pro tip: Swing by in spring for a dazzling wildflower show that turns the trail into a colorful desert paradise! |
7. Reach 11 Recreation Area Trail
Media credit: alphabetresolutions
Address: Desert View Village, Phoenix, AZ 85050
Length: 6.7 mi (10.8 km)
Elevation gain: 49.4 ft (15 m)
Estimated Time: 1 hour 57 minutes
Route Type: Loop
We’re really excited about the Reach 11 Recreation Area! It offers a network of over 18 miles of mostly flat, wide trails surrounded by beautiful desert vegetation.
This peaceful spot provides a fantastic walking experience close to the city, complete with shaded rest areas and plenty of spots to take in the landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; you might see rabbits, hawks, and lizards along your walk!
The trails here are versatile, perfect for both casual strolls and longer outings. We find Reach 11 particularly appealing during early mornings and evenings when the desert scenery is bathed in soft light.
| Pro tip: For a slice of tranquility, explore the east side of the recreation area—your peaceful oasis awaits! |
8. Hidden Valley Trail at South Mountain Park
Media credit: tracylp13/
Address: 4500 E Pima Canyon Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Length: 4.4 mi (7.1 km)
Elevation gain: 590.6 ft (180 m)
Estimated Time: 1 hour and 53 minutes
Route Type: Out and back
We absolutely recommend the Hidden Valley Trail for those looking for an adventure! This moderate trail takes you through narrow rock tunnels and secluded areas that feel like something straight out of a desert adventure movie.
We love the cool rock formations and the quiet corners where we can sit back and soak in the desert vibes.As you walk, you’ll encounter towering saguaro cacti, unique rock arches, and breathtaking views of the valleys—perfect for snapping some stunning pictures!
With plenty of shaded nooks and scenic lookouts, this trail is the ideal blend of adventure and tranquility, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true desert escape without straying too far from the beaten path.
| Pro tip: Pack a pair of binoculars! This trail has some excellent vantage points for spotting desert wildlife and distant mountain views. |
9. West Wetlands Park Trail
Media credit: peter.newton.3956/
Address: Yuma, Arizona 85364,
Length: 1.9 mi (3.2 km)
Elevation gain: 29.5 ft (9 m)
Estimated Time: 36 minutes
Route Type: Loop
West Wetlands Park Trail is known for its unique and easy loop around marshes and ponds in Yuma. It’s a refreshing change from the typical desert scenery. The shaded areas and observation points are perfect for birdwatching, and the playgrounds and picnic tables make it an ideal spot for family visits.
The lush greenery and quiet seating areas create a calming oasis that we find incredibly refreshing. Although it’s a bit of a drive from Phoenix, we think the scenic wetlands and diverse wildlife make it a worthwhile day trip!
| Pro tip: Rise and shine! Early mornings mean prime parking and a peaceful experience all to yourself! |
10. Desert Botanical Garden Trails
Media credit:dbgphx/
Address: Yuma, Arizona 85364,
Length: 2.11 (3.4 km)
Elevation gain: 134.5 (41 m)
Estimated Time: 23 minutes
Route Type: Loop
We can’t recommend the Desert Botanical Garden enough! This beautiful place features multiple paved walking paths showcasing Arizona’s unique desert flora, including saguaros, chollas, and agave.
Each trail is easy to navigate, making it accessible for everyone. We appreciate the guided tours and informational signage that provide fascinating insights into the garden’s extensive collection of desert plants.
While entrance fees apply, the seasonal events, like butterfly exhibits and evening concerts, make the Desert Botanical Garden a truly special experience. For nature lovers, especially those interested in desert ecology, this is a fantastic stop!
| Pro tip: Don’t miss out—check their website for exciting seasonal events like enchanting evening garden tours and magical butterfly exhibits! |
