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Ditch the City and Get Lost: 10 Hikes That Will Make Your GPS Jealous!
Looking for an adventure that takes you beyond the usual scenic views in Phoenix? Whether you’re a local craving new scenery or a visitor looking for a day trip, we’ve got the best hikes close to Phoenix. All are just 2-4 hours away and perfect for anyone who loves fresh air, stunning views, and a little outdoor fun!
Grab your water bottle and sense of adventure because we’re diving into the top 10 hikes close to Phoenix that are so breathtaking, your GPS will be like, “Where are we?!”
Get ready to lace up those hiking boots and make some memories that are way more exciting than a weekend in the city!
1. Cathedral Rock – Sedona
Drive Time from Phoenix: ~2 hours
Address: Yavapai County, Sedona, AZ 86336
Trail Length: 1.2 miles round trip
Average Completion Time: 2-4 hours
Cathedral Rock is one of those “bucket list” hikes close to Phoenix that’s short but packs a punch. It’s a steep, rock-scrambling adventure that takes you to the top of one of Sedona’s most famous red rock formations.
The hike is a bit intense with a heart-pounding final scramble, but the payoff is totally worth it once you’re up there gazing at Sedona’s sweeping landscape. Grab your camera—this is an Instagram moment you don’t want to miss!
| Pro tip: Beat the heat and the crowds by going early, and bring plenty of water—Sedona sun is no joke! |
2. Devil’s Bridge – Sedona
Drive Time from Phoenix: ~2 hours
Address: Dry Creek Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Trail Length: 1.8 miles round trip
Average Completion Time: 1.5-2 hours
If you’re looking for a hike that’s part adventure and part “whoa, this is beautiful,” Devil’s Bridge has you covered!
The trail is mostly moderate until you get to the last stretch where you’ll climb to the top of the natural sandstone arch—Arizona’s largest! Talk about a jaw-dropping view!
Once you’re there, you can (carefully) walk across the arch for a photo that’s guaranteed to make your friends jealous. It’s a solid hike with a stunning payoff.
| Pro tip: Parking can be a nightmare, so go early or grab a shuttle to the trailhead to avoid fighting for a spot. |
3. West Fork Trail – Oak Creek Canyon
Drive Time from Phoenix: ~2.5 hours
Address: W Fork Oak Creek Trail, Sedona, AZ 86336
Trail Length: 6.4 miles round trip
Average Completion Time: 3-4 hours
For something a little more chill (and cooler) hike near Phoenix, West Fork Trail is the perfect escape. This trail winds through Oak Creek Canyon, following a creek through shaded forests and towering canyon walls. It’s beautiful year-round, but especially stunning in the fall when the leaves turn golden.
The hike is easy and family-friendly, making it great for anyone who wants to enjoy a scenic stroll without breaking too much of a sweat. Bonus: The sound of the creek bubbling along is super relaxing.
| Pro tip: This trail gets busy on weekends, so go midweek if you want to enjoy the peace and quiet! |
4. Picacho Peak – Picacho
Drive Time from Phoenix: ~1 hour
Address: 15520 Picacho Peak Rd, Picacho, AZ 85141
Trail Length: 2.8 miles round trip (Hunter’s Trail)
Average Completion Time: 2-5 hours
This one’s for the thrill-seekers! Picacho Peak is a steep, adrenaline-pumping hike with sections that require the use of steel cables to pull yourself up the rock face. It’s challenging, but the views from the top are absolutely killer—you can see for miles over the desert landscape.
Spring is a great time to hit this trail because the wildflowers are in full bloom, making the desert look like it’s been splashed with color. Just be prepared for a workout—this one’s no casual stroll!
| Pro tip: Wear gloves for the cable sections to save your hands, and bring extra water, especially if you’re hiking in warmer weather! |
5. Montezuma Castle National Monument
Drive Time from Phoenix: ~1.5 hours
Address: Montezuma Castle Rd, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Trail Length: 0.4 miles round trip
Average Completion Time: 30 minutes
Looking for a short, sweet, and super historical hike? Montezuma Castle is your spot. This easy, paved trail takes you up close to ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people over 600 years ago.
It’s like stepping into a piece of Arizona’s past, with incredible views of the well-preserved ruins.
The hike is quick and great for families or anyone looking for a little outdoor education on the way north. It’s a perfect way to break up a longer drive, and you’ll walk away with a better sense of the area’s rich history.
| Pro tip: After exploring the castle, take a quick detour to Montezuma Well for a peaceful nature walk—it’s just a few miles away! |
6. Fossil Springs – Strawberry
Drive Time from Phoenix: ~2 hours
Address: Bob Bear, Strawberry, AZ 85544
Trail Length: 8 miles round trip
Average Completion Time: 4-5 hours
Looking to cool off with a hike that ends at an oasis? Fossil Springs is the ultimate desert escape, leading you to crystal-clear swimming holes and waterfalls. It’s a longer hike with some steep sections, but the reward is a dip in the cool, refreshing waters at the end—bring your swimsuit!
This trail is a bit of a commitment, but it’s so worth it for the chance to spend the day splashing around in one of Arizona’s hidden gems that’s close to Phoenix. Just make sure to get a permit in advance because access is limited!
| Pro tip: Bring water shoes for exploring the rocky pools and plan ahead—permits are required for this one! |
7. Bear Mountain – Sedona
Drive Time from Phoenix: ~2 hours
Address: Boynton Pass Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
Trail Length: 5 miles round trip
Average Completion Time: 4-5 hours
If you’re in the mood for a serious challenge, Bear Mountain is calling your name. This steep, tough hike takes you up over 2,000 feet in elevation gain, but with every step, the views just keep getting better and better.
By the time you hit the top, you’ll have panoramic views of Sedona’s red rock country stretching out in every direction.
It’s a serious workout, but if you love a challenge, this trail delivers big-time rewards. Plus, because it’s a bit more intense, you won’t find as many people crowding the trail—so you can enjoy those epic views in peace.
| Pro tip: Hike it at sunset for some seriously magical views, but don’t forget to bring a flashlight for the hike back down! |
8. Watson Lake – Prescott
Drive Time from Phoenix: ~1.5 hours
Address: 3101 Watson Lake Park Rd, Prescott, AZ 86301
Trail Length: 4.8 miles round trip (loop around the lake)
Average Completion Time: 2-3 hours
If you love hiking by the water, Watson Lake in Prescott is the perfect spot for a laid-back day hike. The trail loops around the lake, offering stunning views of the sparkling water set against the backdrop of Prescott’s famous Granite Dells. The giant boulders make for a unique landscape that’s unlike anything you’ll find around Phoenix.
This is a chill hike that’s more about soaking in the scenery than pushing yourself physically, so take your time, snap some photos, and enjoy the peaceful vibe. What’s even great is you can always rent a kayak after your hike to get out on the water.
| Pro tip: Pack a picnic and make a day of it—there are plenty of shady spots by the water to relax post-hike! |
9. Lynx Lake – Prescott
Drive Time from Phoenix: ~1.5 hours
Address: N Walker Rd., Prescott, AZ 86303
Trail Length: 2.3 miles round trip (Lynx Lake Loop)
Average Completion Time: 1.5 -2 hours
Lynx Lake is the perfect easy-going trail if you’re looking to escape the Phoenix heat and enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by nature. This peaceful, forested trail loops around the lake and is great for spotting wildlife—keep an eye out for deer, bald eagles, and other critters along the way!
It’s a gentle, flat hike that’s perfect for families or anyone looking to stretch their legs without too much effort. And hey, if you get hungry, there’s a lakeside café where you can grab a bite to eat and enjoy the view.
| Pro tip: Hit the café for lunch after your hike—their homemade pies are legendary! |
10. Mogollon Rim – Payson
Drive Time from Phoenix: ~2 hours
Address: Mogollon Rim Rd, Payson, AZ 85541
Trail Length: 7.5 miles round trip (Horton Creek Trail)
Average Completion Time: 5-6 hours
| Pro tip: For a change of scenery, head up to the Mogollon Rim, where you’ll trade the desert for cool pine forests and gurgling creeks. |
