The 24 best easy hikes in Phoenix

My sister/best friend of 34 years set out on the journey today. It was definitely majestic even with all the chatter that was going. Word to the wise if you go for meditation be sure to find a spot away from folks. That was definitely the only downfall of the day.

This park is definitely always wonderful in nature and peace! It’s an easier park to travel through since your agility level may be beginner yet it’s fun and always memorable. It’s a clean park and a safe one as well. The sunset is my favorite, definitely have been here for 15+ times, and recommend this place to lots of people!

This was much needed stop and reflect location. Being out with nature when it was not too hot or cold. Such beautiful views and area. I loved that there were bikers and walkers on the same trails.

This is a beautiful, picturesque park with a lot of different amenities! The walking trails on the mountain are easy to do and breathtaking, but even the more common features are in excellent shape! We have utilized the archery range many times, and it’s a neat addition to the area. You won’t be disappointed if you visit!

Super chill with easy trails to walk around and get some nice desert views right next to the city. The Hole in the rock is a fun quick 2 min climb and perfect to catch a sunset or some photos. Stop by if you’re in Phoenix.

Absolutely gorgeous park! Plenty of spots to sit and chill with breathtaking views of the mountains. The grounds are clean and well maintained. There are plenty of walking and biking paths, which is nice for a bit of solitude even when other people are there. There are picnic areas, water fountains, and restrooms as well. The famous hole in the rock formation overlooks the park, however it was slightly crowded when I went so I chose not to climb it. It was still pretty cool to see! Good place to kick back and enjoy some fresh air. Parking is easy and close by to everything.

This was magical, coming from Florida. Did a few of the small loop trails and climb to hole in the rock. First time coming out west can only imagine what larger parks would feel like.

Camelback used to be my favorite within close distance , but after today, this takes the top spot. It’s a great hike for the whole family or just on your own. If you’re planning to hike to the peak (Piestewa Summit) and add the loop (Freedom Trail), it’s a solid option, but be prepared—it adds about 3 extra hours. Definitely a great hike!

It is a good exercise, but the trail is heavily eroded and highly trafficked by competitive folks who are ready to push you down the cliff while passing you running. Definitely not a relaxing experience.

Decent hard hike. If your consistent with minimal breaks, you can go up to the top in about an hour. There is not much rock climbing involved compared to Camelback Mountain, but there will be some rock climbing towards the end. Nothing insane though once you get to the top there is beautiful views of the mountain. I hiked this mountain in the afternoon and saw the sunset and the city lights. It is worth it every time this hike is not as hard as Camelback mountain however

This one was solid I love it... Going 1.2 miles up climbing rocky steps and walls. Going up was a challenge coming down was kinda fun to me and was way easier. 10 out of 10. I just felt like some of the hikers didn't have etiquette. If you are going to get right behind someone, "say you are to their left or right". That was my only issue. It was crowded and plenty of ppl as well. So, you Should feel semi safe. There's plenty of bathrooms at the bottom too.

Amazing trail. I wouldn't say it's extremely difficult, but you definitely want to be in shape for this one. For experienced hikers I would give this hike about 2.5 hours to the top and back to the lot. Have fun, bring lots of water.

Great hike with a lot to see. There are a lot of loose rocks, nothing terrible. Go early because sunrise is incredible. Bring water and sunscreen, as the sun beats down on you the majority of the hike. It's a somewhat crowded trail, not so bad that you don't enjoy it. I hike this trail every time I visit, and everyone that I've passed on the trail has been awesome. I can't wait to run it one day, it's pretty wild that people run this trail on a daily basis.

This is a great hike. We started early and took the Freedom Trail around the mountain, which took longer than expected and put us behind on the climb. The summit trail is a climb, and a fairly difficult one. Bring plenty of water and start early, especially if you are not used to this type of hiking, it heats up quickly. Beautiful views. Give a word of respect for Lori Ann Piestewa when you get there.

This might be one of my favorite moderate trails I’ve ever done (all across the US). It had great views, and the trail was easily marked. We came on a weekday around lunch so there weren’t many people hiking. I highly recommend The Voaz Loop trail.

I love walking around the loop here. A nice uphill and then you have other trails here you can go on. But I chose to walk the loop. They have bbq areas with shades and no shades and bathrooms.

Phoenix Mountain Preserves gets a full five stars. This place is loaded with trails, views, and enough space to make you forget you are right in the middle of a city. Most people seem to laser focus on hiking Piestewa, which is a solid hike, sure, if you are into climbing a mountain while being herded like cattle. It is a good workout, but you are definitely not getting solitude up there. The rest of the park though? That is where the magic is. Tons of trails that wind through beautiful desert scenery. You can hike, bike, run, walk your dog, or just wander around pretending you are one with nature. Whatever your thing is, this place has room for it. Just stay on the trail. Trust me. I went off trail not too long ago and had a close encounter with a western diamondback that definitely did not want to be friends. You are in their turf, so keep your eyes open and your steps careful. Whether you want a tough climb or just a peaceful walk with views, Phoenix Mountain Preserves has it. Solid spot to recharge, sweat a little, and remind yourself that Arizona is not just freeways and chain restaurants.

Great area for solo hiking!Wide-open views, rugged trails, and an amazing workout with desert terrain. Starting early is key to beat the heat and before the sun gets too strong. Peaceful, scenic, and the perfect recharge while I was visiting the area for work.

If you are in North Phoenix, this is right there. And chances are you've driven past it many times. It's a really nice little sanctuary away from the city. The hike is pretty easy, and there are lots of little peaks you can hit. You can probably get to the top in about 45 minutes to an hour, and you can go Peak to Peak so you could spend several hours out here, especially on a nice winter day! Would definitely recommend getting out here!

Several trails leading thru the reserve. Large rock mountain terrain with several species of cactus. Wildlife includes small lizards, butterflies, grasshoppers, and birds. Parking and restroom at trailhead.

Such a cool place to visit, and not far from the Phoenix airport. What a gem! Great hiking trails, perfect photo ops, and just a great way to enjoy being outdoors. We had no wait/line to get in. Parking wasn't an issue for us, but I can see how it would become limited on a busy day. Definitely recommend though!

We hiked the Kiwanis Loop Trail. Its an easy to moderate trail. The first 1.5 miles were the easiest. There's a lookout tower at the 1.5 mile mark. You can see most of the valleys on both sides of South Mountain. This hike would be great for families. Take lots of water and start early in the morning.

Beautiful mountain drive with many places to stop and hike! Picturesque views of Phoenix and the surrounding suburbs! Plenty of picnic spots and a very informative visitor center. There is also horse tours available close by. Totally worth the drive and completely FREE!

One of my favorite local cycling climbs. The new parking area and covered lookouts at the TV towers are great after making the final ascent. San Juan is an awesome add on for more miles and some easier climbs after the towers. Park ranger staff are excellent and always there to help.

One of my favorite local hikes. Mormona trail coss on National to Fatman's pass, thru hidden Valley back to Mormon trailhead loop. ❤️

Absolutely loved hiking the South Mountain Park trails! The views were beautiful, the paths were peaceful, and the whole experience was so refreshing. Definitely will be going again with my brothers and sisters.

I've been hiking South Mountain Park since 2020. The variations in trails and trail difficulty makes this area one of my favorites!

If you're looking for a nice hike go here , I would suggest early mornings when the temperature is cooler.

Has it really been six years since my last hike here? Time flies. We took advantage of the lower temps this week before it heats up. I attempted the Arrowhead trail yet again but it only confirmed this is a killer on my knees. I made it about a mile before deciding to opt for another trail. I hiked down and crossed the steer and started at the Cholla Loop. From the intersection with the light it wraps the mountain and connects near the bridge that crosses over the road. Yes still rocky and lots on incline and switchbacks, but felt more doable to me. Length on Cholla is about a mile longer than Arrowhead if you complete the entire trail. Great views and the workout was awesome as well.

Beautiful place for special moments! I took my child there for their Homecoming pictures as well as graduation pictures. If your looking for a southern scene with a nice sunset/sunrise this place has plenty. I recommend early morning or afternoon for the best sky.

Great little urban patch of wilderness with some hiking trails, cookout spots, and bathrooms. Nice people, trails well maintained. Hot, bring lots of water. Loose rock as well so I'd recommend close towed shoes

Nice area for hikes with a variety of trails. Not busy during the week day. Great way to overlook the cities from the north

Pretty good Park 3 trails to choose based on your skill set. The West peak is a little Warden since the last time I was there and the trail has been widened toward the bottom. Lots of people

Always a great hike for me and my kiddos. We love the view 😍 easy hike not too comlicated.

Beautiful area with scenic hiking trails from short to longer options, easy to moderate levels. No restrooms by the W Pinnacle Peak Rd parking lont. There is a restroom at 59th ave entrance/parking lot. Make sure you're back to your car not too much later after the sunset, otherwise may get a ticket.

The Sonoran Desert, stretching across parts of Arizona, California, and Mexico, is one of the most biologically diverse deserts in the world, known for its iconic saguaro cacti, dramatic sunsets, and vibrant wildlife. Nestled within this remarkable ecosystem is the Jewel of the Creek Preserve in Cave Creek, Arizona a hidden gem that showcases the desert’s surprising richness. This 26.6-acre preserve, managed by the Desert Foothills Land Trust, features the rare, year-round flow of Cave Creek and a lush riparian habitat of cottonwoods and willows, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding arid landscape. Visitors can enjoy the Dragonfly Trail, a scenic loop offering a glimpse into the thriving plant and animal life that make the Sonoran Desert so unique.

Sonoran Preserve is basically Disneyland for dirt lovers. Massive parking lot, which is a blessing because apparently the entire city of Phoenix had the same idea as you. But don’t worry, once you’re a mile in, it’s just you, the lizards, and your questionable life choices. The trail system? Stupid good. You can chain together loops like you're playing some kind of outdoor Choose Your Own Adventure, except instead of dragons and treasure, it's dehydration and glute cramps. Trails are well maintained, clearly marked, and full of opportunities to feel way more athletic than you actually are. Tons of peaks to climb if you're into pain and snacks with a view. I highly recommend hauling your ass up one, pretending you're the main character in a wilderness movie, then immediately sitting down to eat like it’s your reward for surviving a slight incline. Hike it, run it, bike it, whatever your flavor of suffering is, this place delivers. Five stars. Come early, bring water, and don’t trust the breeze. It’s lying.

I am a 2024 GCU graduate and wanted to experience this place because I saw some pictures online and liked them. Here, I wanted to share some of the pictures I took. I was walking through this place, the Sonoran Preserve—Desert Vista Trailhead, thanking God for the blessings that he has allowed me and I heard the voice of God speak to me about many things but there was one specific thing that I wanted to share with you all. God told me, "When many believed that you would die in the desert, I made you flourish." These are the things that keep me rooted in the Lord, because no matter what situation you find yourself in, God never abandons his children. In the time of abundance, everything is easy, but in the difficult times, the true worshiper comes forth. When God allows a flood to happen, when you are persecuted, when you're sent to the lion's due to being faithful, or when a fiery furnace is opened for you, when scarcity comes or any other disease comes to your body, what happens then? That is when it is determined whether or not you will flourish in the desert. God bless you much.

Such an awesome hike right in the city. Highly recommend it!

Easy to medium trails. Amazing view of the city from top (Dixie summit). There are lots of loops, so better follow trail tracks and signage. One can use Google maps to track the trails and circle back to origin. The place has ample car parking, rest rooms and drinking water fountain facility. Its free and not much crowd. Mountain bikes and pets allowed. Carry good amount of water as usual as trails are longer. One can witness the breathtaking view of valley and newer constructions like TSMC from top.

Very nice natural trail to walk, it’s with rocks and soil. Not that hard to walk. I went there during January, around 3 30pm. Climate was good. Walked for around 2 hrs and returned. Take enough water while walking… it’s scenic place and easy to cover…

This huge preserve is splendid, well maintained, and clearly labeled trails, excellent bathroom facilities, ample parking. The trails were not crowded, plenty of challenging single-track for Mountain bikers. It is spring and everything is blooming. Owls 🦉 vultures, coyotes, javalinas and more...

I’d give this place 10 stars if I could! The Desert Botanical Garden is absolutely beautiful and so well maintained. Every trail and exhibit is thoughtfully designed, and you can really see the care that goes into keeping everything in top shape. The staff were attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable; they were happy to answer questions and share insights about the plants and desert landscape. It’s such a peaceful and inspiring place to explore, whether you’re a local or just visiting. There’s also a restaurant on site that feels like fine dining without being stuffy. The food was excellent, the atmosphere was relaxing, and they cater to a wide range of dietary needs. Overall, it’s a must-visit spot in Phoenix.

The botanical garden is a must visit. The trails are no lesser than any state park/national park. The gathering tours were really informative. The staff is friendly. Gift store is so beautiful. There are water stations every now and there. Hydration is not all a problem. Loved watching butterflies and hummingbirds in the butterflies trail. Saguaros are unique.

Must experience. Absolutely beautiful. We were fortunate to arrive after the monsoonal rains. Everything was green and blooming. We arrived a little before sunset, so we're able to see the gardens during the day, at sunset with a beautiful Arizona sky, and the gardens lit at night. The Botanical garden is open till 9:00 pm. If you have a layover at Phoenix Airport, the gardens aren't very far away. I would encourage anyone younger old to take time to visit.

I was not sure if I would like this, but I ended up loving it. It can be a bit of a walk, but I went in Nov and it was not overwhelmingly hot, but still warm. I enjoyed the cactus and plants so much, they bloom beautifully. Of course they have a lovely butterfly exhibit so worth going to. The shop and restaurant was not to bad, slightly pricey, still nice though. I had a refreshing margarita. I would recommending giving this place a visit, was most enjoyable.

The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is absolutely incredible! I was blown away by the breathtaking views—towering saguaros and colorful cacti create this surreal, almost magical desert landscape. There are so many cool cactuses, from spiky barrels to funky agaves, and I loved wandering the shaded trails snapping photos. It’s super peaceful, like a total escape from the city, with hummingbirds zipping around adding to the calm. The paths are easy to navigate, and the sunset glow on the red buttes was unreal. It’s about $40 to enter, but worth every penny for the curated beauty. I’d recommend it to anyone who loves nature or just wants a chill, inspiring outing. Bring water if it’s warm, and go early for fewer crowds. I’m already excited to come back!

I love this place! It makes me happy. It gives me time to reflect and regain focus on life. We all have a happy place we go to recharge. This is one of many places I go to feel a sense of peace. I love nature, so this is a great place to visit. It’s also a learning experience as well. Many different types of plants and cactuses. They also have special events. A lot of fun stuff. I enjoy going when it’s cooler out. I make it a me day. Enjoy! 😊

Desert Botanical Garden is a fantastic place to visit. There are so many varieties of desert plants, and the massive cactuses are especially impressive. The butterfly garden is also great, with lots of different species to see. If you’re visiting on a hot day, make sure to stay hydrated—thankfully, there are water stations throughout the grounds. The staff are friendly and there’s tons of helpful information about Arizona’s incredible cacti. The entry fee is a bit pricey, but for a one-time visit, it’s worth it.

It’s definitely an easy adventure to the lovely hole in the rock center, usually a crowd to witness the beautiful horizon. We always love coming here and enjoying Mother Nature at its finest. The great outdoors! Plenty of parking and everyone is friendly, safe and enjoyable for a short yet mesmerizing experience, been here many times and will keep visiting!

It is actually a very short hike up to the hole in the rock. Who was easily able to do this in slides. I would definitely recommend bringing some water, because it gets very hot, and there is nothing else around unless you want to pay to get into the zoo. The hole was pretty cool, and we were also able to go through it and sit on the other side in the rocks and get a really nice view.

What a fantastic way to kick off our Phoenix adventure! As our very first stop on the trip, this quick and easy 0.3-mile out-and-back trail in Papago Park was the perfect low-key intro to the city’s desert vibes. The path is super family-friendly—mostly flat with just a gentle 45-foot elevation gain and a few simple stairs carved into the red sandstone—butte, making it a breeze even if you’re not a hardcore hiker. We zipped through it in about 10 minutes, leaving plenty of time to soak in the magic.

An amazing rock formation with a natural hole, surrounded by a park with a few scenic ponds. The trail offers a unique hiking experience, surprisingly close to built-up areas and road access. It’s well worth walking the trail to enjoy the view through the rock’s opening. Also an ideal spot for birding, especially at dawn or dusk. I even spotted a few species, including a roadrunner, around midday.

Breath-taking views. Especially at sunset. There is a fairly easy climb up. If you are going to watch the sunset get there early to get a good seat.

Fantastic place to watch the sunrise. It gets crowded but everyone is polite and respectful. Parking is alittle difficult but it’s a very laid back atmosphere. Everyone is there for the same reason and no one is in a rush. When the sun starts to set it gets really quiet and as the sun disappears behind the mountains everyone showed their appreciation to God for the beautiful of it all by cheering and clapping.

Beautiful! Can definitely get crowded. If you exit and shift to the left, you can still have a beautiful view just not as cool as being in the hole!

Neat little park in the middle of the desert. The gal at the front gate/check point was incredibly friendly and helpful. The ranger/host driving around in the golf cart, was NOT! He was contraindicting the gal that gave us specific directions. Then the day we left, he was circling our camper 20 minutes before check out. Which we were out on time. But we observed him doing this all week to the residents on the day of move out. We did make it up to the visitors center, a fun and interesting little walk through. The playground is pretty awesome!

Great campground. The sites are big and spread out. They have hot showers and flush toilets. Beautiful Views of the mountains and cactus all around. Very quiet and peaceful. We had wood fires every night. Very close to Cave Creek and Carefree, beautiful town. We will come back for sure.

I've stayed here in my RV (travel trailer) anywhere from 1 night to 2 weeks. The sites are large and easy to back into, well-maintained and level. The bathrooms are clean and shower water is hot, although annoying to have to hit the button every 30 seconds. Dog-friendly, which is great, please keep your dogs leashed. The hiking trails are nice, the area is lovely, and convenient to shopping and dining nearby as well. Good central location for all of the Northern Phoenix area. I only have two significant complaints/warnings: 1) there is a horse ranch / small stadium adjacent to the Park, which has a loud audio system. If you are in the family campground especially, this is literally adjacent to your campsite, and can be rather loud at times. 2) The dump station does not have a hose attachment to backflush your black tanks. There is water, but it is a small spray nozzle that does not come off, no hose attachments. I feel this is a major oversight to be able to adequately dump and clean black tanks.

I didn’t mind this park at all, it was easy to find & navigate. We camped at the campground which has large sites for our trailer and truck to park side by side. Sites were clean, spacious and spread out enough on our end so we weren’t constantly exposed to our neighbours. There wasn’t much shade coverage but the temperature this time of the year didn’t require it in the same way it would hotter months. There are plenty of hiking trails though we only completed the slate trail with the Michelin man saguaro. See my review of said trail if you’re interested. You pay a fee to enter or to use the campground. The washrooms and showers were clean, im just not a fan of the push button showers as they require constant button mashing to ensure the water doesn’t stop on you mid wash. The park rangers were kind and welcoming. It’s a very quiet park and we had no concerns. I only give less than five stars because I felt it was expensive compared to other state parks for what you get. We did have full water and electric. Sites are paved and pretty level. I would have stayed longer but it booked up so fast I didn’t have a chance to secure another site. Also love that it’s close to cave creek- a nice place to visit. Oh and though there’s a gate- you are given an access code so you can return after hours to your site without concern.

This is a Beautiful Park. The RV sites are spaced out far from each other. The bathrooms are clean. The landscape is very Beautiful! Great price for camping!

If you are from the valley or up north just wanting a quiet get away with amazing sunsets, clean bathrooms and just detachment, this is for you. Close to everything near Cave Creek 10 day stay and just kept asking myself "what do I have to do today? Nothing!"

We enjoyed our Clay Mine hike, but we were disappointed that the mine was blocked off/closed and we could not access it. but the trail itself was very nice. you cannot use the trailhead because it starts in the campground and there is no parking. first, go to the nature center and access it from there. Tonight was at the gate entrance and was very helpful and knowledgeable about the park.

A great place to hike. LOTS of trails. I've actually temporarily gotten lost. But all you have to do is keep going, and you'll find your way. After all you're right in the middle of the city. Freeway to the west and to the north. So you can't really get lost. You may find a few old mine shaft entrances. Lots of cool rock formations. Colorful rocks. Red. Green. And every color in between. The parking area was just recently redone. Very nice.

They did a huge renovation a few years ago. They put in flat pavement so you can walk, and bike. There's hiking trails in the mountains, i haven't tried that yet but I see people on the trails. Not a lot of shade on these hikes, bring lots of water. Before you start the hike, they have bathrooms, water fountains, and trash cans. I love taking my dogs on walks over here. Its peaceful and quiet. During the weekends, the parking lot gets filled up quickly. Early mornings, theres coyotes, please be careful.

Lots of hiking trails for all ages and levels of experience. Nice clean bathrooms and paved paths. While there are parking spaces, just like any hiking trail heads it can get crowded the later it gets and even more so since there are pavilions where parties and other events can be held which packs the packing lot even more.

Loved this place. There are several pavilions with bbq grills, nice bathrooms and a water fountain. There is a map of the area, but there are way more trails than on the map so use a trail app. I took Holly's Loop according to AllTrails app. I very much enjoyed it. A few rocky spots. I'm afraid of heights and a couple spots were bit scary, but i got through them. I'm a slow hiker who likes to stop and look and i really enjoyed the hike.

One of my favorite places in all of AZ, just driving in and winding up the road to the parking you can feel the Energy shift....great place to go play my handpans

It's my favorite place to hike in the city. There are so many trails of varying difficulties.

Great place with lots of trail options. Ranging from strolls to difficult hikes with peaks. The parking lot and amenities are nice too. Take more water than you need and remember to pack out anything you pack in.

Plenty of pay to park spots. You can park here and walk all of downtown easily. The butte is a short vertical hike and will definitely get your heart rate going. Bring water and wear proper shoes that don't slip. There are some parts that are loose rocks. You'll do some rock scrambling to sit at the very top. The way down is pretty steep and I was very careful not to fall. Thankful for the railings. I wish the trash cans along the way were emptied more often.

What a great climb right in the middle of Tempe. You can see phx airport, so lots of planes go over. Nice benches, garbage cans, (still some garbage on ground), railing to hang on too, staircase to top lookout area, great signage for Newbies and the view was amazing! Parking across the street in the garage was 2 hour only for bottom rows. Pay parking but nice and shady in there. By the lake across from the butte, there are boats for rent and a flat walking, rollerblading, biking, etc. along the Lake. I'm not sure of the cost, but they looked like fun. Paddle boats shaped like rubber ducky and a swan, canoes, and other boats too. We accessed the parking garage from lake side and also Hayden Butte side. Very nice area!!! I would do this hike again.

This place is more like a view point. It is a short hike to gain elevation to look at the ASU campus to the south and river park and city of Tempe to the North. Very good for morning walks. Pet friendly. Highly recommend when you are at the ASU campus, Tempe, AZ

Best spot around Tempe, lake nearby also Tempe down town is near by. Just go for quick short hike. Only problem is there are no free parkings around. Be aware and look for park payments before you park your car

Amazing spot for a sunset. Trail was pretty easy but some elevation. Voew was worth the hike. Easy drop off for transportation uber or city rail.

Super fun place to meet a friend staying in Tempe for a wedding. Quick hike and then breakfast down the street. Perfect morning!

A really nice short hike with a great view! It is fairly steep but definitely short enough for all types of hikers to be able to enjoy! I went last week and I thought it was super cute how there were signs with the three wise men! I enjoyed seeing the different types of holiday symbolism! I followed Google Maps and it brought me to the side of the mountain - not a parking lot. But there are a few parking lots and garages nearby so there are parking options. It was roughly 65-70 degrees last week which was perfect!

A must-visit, beautiful mountain in the heart of Phoenix with various intensity trails. Always spot lots of wildlife and the trails are busy with hiker and biker activity at various times in the morning. The paved trail up to the main tower is a great high-intensity trail for training. The visitor center side has plenty of parking and the center hosts many activities as well as a lovely information and display area where you can find books on identifying birds and garden insects, gardening in AZ, and many other AZ-themed resources. The picnic and observation deck outside the center is a fabulous space for outdoor yoga, tai chi, etc. Definitely got to check out this leading hiking site in Phoenix.

I like this small museum, exhibit center that tells about how the citizens of Phoenix worked to save the natural desert from development back in the 1970s and continuing through today. It is truly a fabulous find in the middle of Phoenix! I highly recommend taking an hour to look at all the photos of wildlife found in the desert, in the middle of a big city! A lovely Gift Shop, too! Terrific volunteers who can tell you about the hiking trails the area and more.

The center offers free advice and maps for the numerous trails in the North Mountin Preserve. The Center also has numerous books, clothing, water and and trinkets for sale. Classrooms in the Center can be booked at a cost.

Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Lots of trails to pick from. They do have water for you to purchase should you need. Some. Bathrooms are also available.

This is a great place for my kids to learn about the Arizona desert. You could spend all day exploring the trails if you wanted to, but we usually explore for less than an hour in the morning to get my kids used to hiking. The beginning of the trail is perfect for my young ones to experience hiking on flat, easy terrain. Then after we finish our hike, we head over to the visitor center to cool off. It is a beautiful space with a lot of interesting things to look at. We enjoy the children's room where they have lots of books, and educational toys, although they are outdated. The staff is very friendly as well, and they offer a reading program where kids can earn prizes for books they read.

Love these trails. There are so many to explore and each one shows you its hidden beauty and each is unique per the ti.e of day. I have spent 2 years hiking these trails and I'm still finding new connecting trails with hidden beauties.

The trails are manicured. The restrooms are clean (however there are no doors on the stalls). The trails vary from easy to challenging. Just know that the palo verde trees and bushes are buzzing full of bees, and whatever else is occupying the bushes. I didn't get stung, and didn't see anyone else get stung, but the trails were not peacefully quiet, they were buzzing. The trees were also full of hummingbirds, so it balanced out the experience.

Great hike! The only downside is a small parking lot at the trailhead. Our family loved it, though.. We are from out of town( Denver) and have done it before, on a previous visit. We will definitely do it again, and I would recommend it for sure(for med-strong hikers). It's not too difficult, but you can make it harder and harder the higher you go. My 7 year old and 12 year old made it to the very, tippy top... But they are strong hikers. 😀

Quartz Ridge is one of those trailheads that just quietly delivers. Decent size parking lot, which is rare enough in Phoenix to feel like a small miracle. No parallel parking gymnastics required, just pull in and get after it. The trails? Absolute bangers. Well maintained, plenty of options, and enough elevation gain to remind your legs who’s boss. I barely scratched the surface and still knocked out 7 miles with 2,000 feet of gain. It's like the mountain knew I needed to humble myself before breakfast. Pro tip: stay on the damn trail. I decided to get adventurous and nearly enrolled in a rattlesnake meet-and-greet. Spoiler alert, they don’t want to be your friend. The locals here don’t wave, they rattle. Best move is hitting it early. Catch the sunrise, avoid the crowds, and knock out your hike before the sun decides to roast you alive. Five stars. One of my go to hiking spots if I want to stick close to home.

Great hike if you are looking for an hour-long (ish) hike. It’s beautiful. Parts of the trail are very rocky, so shoes with good solid soles are best. Parking lot is kind of small, so go early. Probably not the best hike for little kids, as parts of trail have big rocky steps.

First time hitting this trail and it was very beautiful! Definitely a workout, lots of ups and downs before the switchbacks. With a 8lb cat on my back, I did not go all the way up, but that will be a goal to work towards. Very amazing quarts rocks all over. It is a very popular trail, lots of people and dogs.

Great hike. The trail was listed as moderate but was closer to easy. Well, marked. Good views. Not long, but there were options to go longer on connecting trails. Easy parking.

Rocky path narrows towards top and gets rockier, had to use hands to help me. Parking very tight maybe 12 spaces,2 are handicapped. Beautiful vies of phoenix and mountain ranges. Can see weavers needle in superstitions. Go early with heat.

Easy to moderate hike to the 1st ridge (1.1 miles up), more difficult to the 2nd and 3rd ridges. The top requires some scrambling and gives you 360 degree views

It was a lot of fun. Definitely difficult, I was breathing deep the whole way but my body itself wasn't too exhausted. The elevation and heat are a big factor so I wouldn't recommend going mid day. I will say, there were a few fit folks running up and down it like it was just their daily jog. Nuts. Also the description of this trail on the all trails app says there is a rock scramble for the last half mile... I'm going to say this ENTIRE hike honestly is a rock scramble so just keep that in mind.

The Camelback Eco Canyon Trailhead is extremely challenging. It demands strong fitness, stamina, and mental preparation. The terrain is steep, rocky, and often risky, making it one of the toughest trails in the region. It 4-5 tough climbing. Need good hiking shoes. 🥵 Difficulty Level • Very Difficult • Risk Factor – narrow paths, steep ascents, and descents make it dangerous if not careful. • Technical Movement – at certain sections, you’ll feel like you’re climbing with both legs and hands; while descending, you may need to use your hands for balance and support. 💧 Essentials to Carry • Plenty of water (hydration is critical). • Proper hiking shoes with strong grip. • Gloves (optional, but helpful for hand support on rocks). • Snacks/Energy bars for stamina. ⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind • Be prepared and well-maintained before attempting. • Avoid hiking alone; a partner is highly recommended. • Start early in the day to avoid heat. • Respect your limits — it’s easy to underestimate the difficulty. After pushing through the tough climbs and crossing the challenging sections, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking scenic view of the mountains. The moment feels refreshing, peaceful, and truly worth all the effort.

Visiting in the area and wanted to climb for sunrise. Took us about 45 minutes to reach the top from the parking lot but we are very active. There was plenty of parking available 45 minutes before sunrise. I’d recommend wearing strong ankle support hiking boots and bring a headlamp in the early hours as you will need your hands to hike portions. Please don’t be those people wearing tennis shoes slipping all over the rocks. Do yourself a favor and be prepared in the right gear. The view is great but take your time and get up and down safely

Very hard hike going up and coming back down. Go early to get parking closer to the trail. Take gloves to avoid getting scraped. Take plenty of water, no water at the top or on the trail Start before 7 to avoid the sun

SPEED TRAP AHEAD !! About a mile from the trailhead, speed limit drops from 35 to 25 mph. On a hill above the road the town has placed an empty police vehicle that photo enforces. We got a ticket going 30 mph !!! Trail is great with a beautiful overlook at 1/4 mile. Very steep. Wish I could have enjoyed it more but was still furious about this SPEED TRAP CRAP. SLOW DOWN. DON'T GIVE THIS TOWN ANY MORE MONEY.

A challenging hike in the middle of Scottsdale- I thought I was on the verge of death at least four times but it was worth it, very enjoyable as a personal challenge. I wouldn't recommend going alone the first time unless you're in great shape. Lots of skedaddling over big rocks.

So, if you think you are going to show up here without previously working out, you will be humbled quickly! Make sure you're hydrated 3 days prior if possible, and the goal is to start early in the morning to beat the heat! Secondly, make sure you have on trail shoes for nice grip and support. Don't underestimate camelback moutain, if your in the area, I definitely recommend it. Make sure you are prepared. It's harder coming down the mountain than it is climbing up the mountain! If you hear helicopters flying overhead that just mean someone didn't prepare and needed to be rescued off the moutain, the cost of being rescued is $15,000.

Parking can be tight at times but with the heat on the rise, we're finding ourselves alone atop the summit on weekday sunset nights. Be in shape, bring plenty of water, and take your time on your descent.

Very fun and challenging hike. Incredible views at the top. The trail is steep and rocky in parts, so be ready for a good workout, but it’s worth the effort. Go early if you can—it gets hot and busy later in the day. Make sure to bring plenty of water since there’s little shade along the way. Great hike if you’re looking for something active in Scottsdale.

It’s free. It’s beautiful. It’s super exercise. And you can hike as much or as little as you want. Go early - sunrise or late - just before sunset. The trail is open from sunrise to sunset. You won’t get on after sunset. And they’ll probably chase you off if you’re up there in elevation. It’s a double black diamond trail from trailhead to Summit. But if you only do the first 5 mile posts, it’s moderate. If you do just the first couple three to get a view it’s easy.

I attempted to hike Camelback Mountain in July, starting before sunrise. Unfortunately, the heat quickly overwhelmed me, and I was unable to complete the hike. I made it past the challenging "staircase" section with its steep incline. There are designated rest spots along the trail, which I utilized. The trail wasn't overly crowded during my early morning start. Overall: Camelback Mountain is a challenging hike, especially in the summer heat. I recommend starting very early in the morning and bringing plenty of water.

Beautiful hiking trail, quite strenuous, in the middle of the city. Worth recommending for 1-3 hour hikes.

Absolutely amazing hike. Possibly the coolest one I’ve ever been on, and I hike a lot. Imagine having the view of the world from above in a plane but being able to enjoy it for as long as you’d like. It is very challenging to make it to the top but totally worth it. We chatted with a friendly park ranger after the hike and he told us that a big part of their job is convicting people NOT to do this hike if they give off any sign of unpreparedness or inability to do it. Know your limitations and trust your instincts. Have plenty of water. It gets HOT and there is no shade. There is great signage sharing about the importance of not overdoing it.

Amazing hike! It’s super fun and the view is spectacular. We saw people of all ages doing the hike , though before the top it’s a bit tricky. Very fun hike 🏜️

This place is basically Arizona’s cheat code for summer survival. Rolled up, drove straight down to the water like I owned the place, and parked right there, zero stress unloading gear, which is rare for any lake. Families everywhere living their best lives, boats and jet skis buzzing around like it was a full-blown water carnival. Paddle boarding? Perfect. Water felt amazing, not bathwater-warm, not teeth-chattering cold, just right. And the donkeys... yes, actual donkeys, just hanging out on the beach like they were part of the attraction. Between fishing, boating, swimming, or just straight up loafing around in the sun, this place has something for whatever makes your soul happy. Honestly, if you can’t have a good time here, that’s on you, not the lake.

Haven't been to Lake Pleasant in about 16 years, used to go and Jet Ski all the time. I've been there three times in the past 2 weeks and have taken up kayaking, great, awesome, very relaxing, I keep to the north side and avoid the weekend crowd.

Fishing and swimming here since early 1980's. Great channel cats at night, stripes, plenty of bluegill, and bass. Water level can fluctuate dramatically daily. Wake boarding is great. Did a triathlon years ago. Donkeys are everywhere. WATCH OUT FOR RATTLESNAKES AND SCORPIONS. Sunrises are outstanding.

Had a great time wasn't too crowded, took out some jet ski, water was pretty clean also

*Stop littering please people! I like coming to lake pleasant. Always a fun time boating here and seeing the donkeys. There are some great spots to collect beautiful quality quartz and jasper. But not 5 stars because recently the lake has had a big increase in litter. This time we saw so much trash by the boat ramp and inside of the water. Plastic bottles, beer cans, and worm containers. Clean up the shores not only for the wildlife but for the responsible people paying the $9 for entry. Also, install more trash cans so that the insolent litter bugs don't have an excuse.

It was a perfect day! 6am, rain, clouds a little yoga the water was perfect for paddle boarding. We went to the very far end where there was a creek flowing into the lake.

I’ve been there for an event. It was really amazing. You can go rent a boat. You can also do some water sports. If you have few if you bring your own stuff or you can rent it as well. The water is clean you can view the whole lake from different locations and you can enjoy the weather. There are some locations where you have shades so you can stay there, have a barbecue or have a an outing with family and friends there are some areas that will need to have some more parking space but overall it’s an amazing place and I would definitely try to go again

I wanted to love this hike but even though it’s more of a challenge than North Mountain it just isn’t as fun. The views are beautiful but the loop just seems to take forever for what you’re doing. I still think it’s worth visiting at least once. There’s a few portions where you don’t see any evidence of city at all!

Loose rock to start. Doable just watch where you're walking. Once you get to the asphalt has a good incline to the top. Nothing you can't do. I would call this trail moderate. The views at top are amazing. I went in the morning hardly saw half a dozen people in January.

Good little hike. Went up the wrong way! Going counterclockwise forced you to traipse up a broken down old roadway, covered in cracked road surface and broken rocks. That's a long hike, too! At the top, lots of radio towers and a dangerous ledge, but, plus, a little seating on rocks. Not bad at all.

We loved this hike! 👌 A little challenging for the not so experienced hiker (although my 6 yr old handled it like a champ), well worth the climb once you get to the top and get to check out what's left of the old restaurant. Great workout for the legs and beautiful views of Phx all around!

Outstanding hike/trek, although very rocky/gravel(ly)? trails. And, of course, the views are spectacular, all the way to downtown Phoenix, the airport, Tempe , Mesa and beyond to Apache Junction. Also southward to South Mountain and west to State Stadium. Great place for many trail runners and bikers (bicycling, not motorized ) Also horses frequent the trails. And lastly, but absolutely magnificently, is the awesome wildlife; As for myself, first time seen a fox, extremely quick and nimble scurrying up the edges of the rocks, with its extremely long bushy tail. And most certainly agree with other reviewers, people are extremely friendly. Hey, Happy Trails

Parks Are Outdoors! Outside is Free! Great Climbs with Awesome Views. Miles of Trails in the middle of the City. Flats down in the Middle. Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails for All Abilities. Get Your Fix!

Did a three mile hike with my daughter on Thanksgiving morning to the top to give Thanks. There are several trails of different levels of difficulty. Bikes & dogs on the trail as well. Beautiful views

This is a nice but small park. It has a few trees and real grass.

Wow wow wow!!! The Grand Canyon was so... well... GRAND!!! Truly beautiful!! You really have to go there to experience the peace that is felt when you stare out into the vastness and soak in the colors. The pictures do not do the Grand Canyon justice.

Clean, big, and a great place for kids to run around. There are play structures and swings for toddlers and big kids alike. Everyone has always been friendly when we've gone. Thankful for the shade trees this time of year especially!

Been coming here a long time for lacrosse games. Fields are not that great but it is a nice park.

Perfect little park for when it isn't so hot outside. We enjoyed our quick stop.

The park is clean, well-maintained and has plenty of updated playground equipment along with courts and fields for different sports. It’s also dog friendly as long as you’re considerate and clean up after your pet.

Great park with lots of grassy areas. Even has a restroom. The views of the mountains are fantastic too!

This hike was incredible! The trail was well-marked and offered stunning views at every turn. The path was challenging but manageable, making it perfect for all levels. Fresh air, beautiful nature, and a rewarding summit—definitely worth the effort. Can’t wait to do it again!

I hiked up this mountain on a 104 degree day with a 16 oz of sugar free Redbull in hand making to the peak fairly easy. It's a 30 minute hike that I'd rate medium on toughness for average hikers. You'll definitely be panting hard as you near the peak. Lovely 360 view of the surrounding area when you reach the top.

Love this mountain. Moderate hike, with multiple trails to the top. The latest edition which is paved all the way to the top makes it accessible for those who have trouble hiking. Great view up top. A little oasis in the middle of the city.

Its always wonderful. Very scenic views. You feel accomplished when you make it to the top. The incline is one that will have you ready to quit, but continue to push....trust me its worth the climb.

Hiking goes beyond simply moving through nature; it allows you to let your soul dangle, clear your mind, and recharge your batteries. Jennifer Love ❤️

That is a great hike for newbies and advanced hikers. Gives you a great view over the Valley. Great spot for taking some sunset pictures. The beginninf is a little steep and is a little challenge when you just started hiking out here. However, absolutely worth it.

Beautiful Spring weather and many nature views!! There are plenty of different trails to the top.

I’m an average hiker who likes straight path trails with some hills. This one has multiple hills to hike so beware! I didn’t think it would be that hard 🤣 My husband and his step dad had no problem doing it. Parking may be tough.

Plenty of trails on this Ridgeline. Very easy to create a loop trail or an out and back trail in lengths of 2,4,6,8 or miles. Some places to hike to are Fat Man's Pass, Mystery Castle, Hidden Valley Natural Tunnel and Observation Point.

Ridgeline Trail is an absolute gem for anyone who loves nature and a good hike! The trail offers stunning views throughout, with a beautiful mix of rolling hills, dense trees, and wide-open vistas. It’s perfect for those looking to escape into nature without straying too far from civilization. The trail itself is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it easy to follow. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, there’s something for everyone here, with various stretches that challenge you while still being manageable. The elevation gain isn’t overwhelming, but it still gives you a satisfying workout. What really stands out is the peaceful atmosphere; you’ll feel a world away from the hustle and bustle as you walk. The wildlife sightings are an added bonus, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of deer or some colorful birds. I highly recommend Ridgeline Trail for a day out in nature, whether you're going solo, with friends, or with family. It's a perfect escape for anyone wanting to reconnect with the outdoors!

Great hike to catch a sunset and get those views. There are many trails inter crossing Ridgeline so you can easily go from a planned 2 mile hike, to a 4 or more. Some lose rock, so be careful. Take plenty of water and watch out for those snakes! IG @ hikingthisplanet

This is a great workout when you don't have a lot of time. I think the views from the Ridgeline trail are better than those from the busy main lookout at the top of South Mtn. There's no bathroom nearby so that's kind of a bummer.

I've been hiking here many, many times. I couldn't get lost if I tried. I usually do between 4 to 7 miles round trip. It's one of my favorite places to hike with a dog or without. 😍

Great trail with lots of options. Low shade, plan ahead for water, food and sunscreen. Epic views of Phoenix; decent elevation gain with loose gravel and footing; prepare before you go.

Great place to run. Plenty of rabbits and ducks. Beautiful during sunset.

Great for rollerblading and biking. Make sure you know how to use your brakes on the hills though.

After dark this place is referred to as ‘Anal Park’ because it’s a game meeting place. I had no idea until my buddy and I were killing time there one night and we had like 5 dudes come sit by us and they were all very gay. Then, when we were walking back to the parking are there was a guy giving another guy a tugger in the car. I apologized for interrupting and told them we’d give them privacy. It’s weird and uncomfortable to be hit on like that when you’re not gay. I will not be going back after the sun is down. I’m not homophobic but I’d rather not be around it.

Beautiful well maintained paved path along the canal which is great for walkers and bikers alike. Connects to the vast expansive trail system in Papago park. Well worth a visit and easy to access by light rail/public transportation as well.

I walked on part of this path from the Phoenix Zoo/ Papago Park area (next to the Hole in the Rock). It's concrete and nicely paved. Unfortunately, there wasn't much shade. Didn't see many hikers, most a few bikes going along the trail. It got hot, so I had to turn back. Edit: This path apparently also extends to Scottsdale (not sure if same one but did see the labeled sign along the path.) I was able to access this path from the G.R. Herberger Park. There were some nice trees in blossom along the way, however this part of the trail was close to the street- so a bit noisy.

Beautiful view of Tempe Az and nice path for cycling. I got 21 miles in started from Kiwanis Park the canal was mid way point

Great trail for jogging or biking with a great view of both Tempe and Phoenix. Also great spot for fishing!

Pretty clean. I do have restrooms during the day . There are a few homeless out and about but they don't bother you.

Super fun if you have a dog or more!!! It's obviously still under improvements and repairs, but when it's finished, it will be beautiful and amazing. Up top, the airplanes can be loud, but if you go on the West side - Central/ 7Ave side, all the vegetation drowns out the noise, there's a foot bridge, two waterfalls, and a mini desert Oasis. There are some homeless campsites, but the few sites that are there are well hidden and the campers won't bother you. Walking in the wetlands has a bunch of little trails and lots of wildlife. The East side - Central/ 7St, is much closer to the road, more noisy, and close to warehouses, but little to no campsites. So, West is more adventersome though uneasy, East is more pedestrian and boring.

This park is lost. Not safe or sanitary. Parking lot full of "campers". You have to walk through a wall "campers" to get to bathrooms and the paths. 3 ft off the paths you see and hear more "campers". Parking lot and first little lake have no trash. Trash from "campers" covers the rest of the area. Seems like parks and rec clean and manage what you can see from road and parking lot. Past that I'm sure they don't want to get out of the vehicle when on the trails for health and safety reasons. Also no fishing signs posted.

Lots of homeless living in this area in tents. Lots of trash, human feces and used toilet paper. Some homeless are aggressive. My catalytic converters were stolen off my car in the parking lot.

It's nice, but it's run down, full of homeless people and the bathrooms are closed! There are many homeless people in the area on bicycles who ride through the park and some are aggressive. If they see you alone they ask you if you want to smoke with them. They should get the homeless out of the park!!!

I find this trail to be scenic and sometimes surprising with the views and wildlife

Plenty of parking and you can walk quite far. As others have mentioned it’s not the most amazing neighborhood but it’s a nice little area & I enjoyed my time there. Would I go back? No as I prefer to walk in quieter areas but this was a nice little getaway that’s very accessible. The waterfowl stare at you like they are hungry lol but they are pretty to watch. Not a lot of shade for walking- bring water and sun protection

Super easy walk. Not a hiking trail, but rather a concrete path. Took our three kids. The two year old made it halfway through the challenge loop before needing to be held, and the older two made it all the way with minimal complaints.

Perfect for a quick hike. It's wheelchair and stroller friendly. You can see wildlife and petroglyphs while walking there is a drinking fountain and a few benches on trail. The visitor center is a bonus.

It's a very nice inclined walk

A nice paved trail for people of all abilities to experience South Mountain.