Arizona is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes, which makes it a top tourist destination to explore. Wether you want to do a traditional desert hike, explore the breathtaking red rock canyons, or head up north to the pines, Arizona has something to offer for everyone of all skill level.
I made a list of my top-rated hikes that should be added to your bucket-list while you plan your Arizona adventures!
My top 5 Favorite Arizona Hikes
Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona
My absolute favorite Arizona hike for 3 reasons: the first is the views are UNBEATABLE, secondly, although it's steep / challenging it's only a mile long so it's a fast hike, and lastly my brother got engaged at the top and it holds some of my best memories!
Cathedral Rock Pro-Tip: wear hiking shoes since there is a few scrambling/"rock climbing parts", and get to the trail early since this hike is gaining a ton of popularity from social media. If possible hike this trail during a weekday and not during the summer since there is limited shade!
Wave Cave in Gold Canyon, Arizona
I HIGHLY recommend this 3 mile moderate trail! The beautiful views from the top of the cave speak for themselves-- but the less populated trail is also filled with wild flowers and saguaros galore! I seriously LOVE the Superstition Mountains so much- they are one of Arizona's sacred beauties!
Wave Cave Pro-Tip: Download a map of the trail before starting since the trail isn't well marked and it is easy to get lost. The last .5 miles is a little steep and the loose rocks can be slippery on the way down!
Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona
Bring your camera for this trail because it's nature's finest masterpiece that will leave your jaw on the floor! According to All Trails,"Antelope Canyon is the most-visited and most-photographed slot canyon in the Southwest."
Antelope Canyon Pro-Tip: You must book a tour to enter the Navajo Park and canyon which is $80-$180. Be sure to book a tour time when the sun is directly over the canyon, or the canyon will be pitch black (learned from my mistake).
Devil's Bridge in Sedona, Arizona
Devil's Bridge ends with an epic sandstone arch that is a popular Sedona icon on social media.This is a moderate 3.9 mile hike that offers breathtaking views of the Red Rocks. This hike can't be missed if you're visiting Sedona.
Devil's Bridge Pro-Tip: If you have an off-roading vehicle you can avoid half of the hike by driving a mile up the trail. Also, this popular trail is certainly a tourist attraction and there will most likely be a long line of people at the top waiting to take a photo on the bridge.
Tom's Thumb Trail in Phoenix, Arizona
Great exercise! This 4 mile heavily trafficked trail is difficult with lots of switchbacks and a constant incline; however, after the first mile it does get slightly easier! Overall, Tom's Thumb offers amazing views of the Southern McDowell Mountain range and urban Phoenix landscape. The "thumb" at the top is HUGE and well worth the hark hike!
Honorary Mention: Camelback Mountain via Echo Canyon Trail in Scottsdale, Arizona
I feel like I have to include Camelback Mountain because it's a tourist favorite and such a great workout; however, traffic is ALWAYS extremely heavy especially during the winter season, so I would consider other hiking trails in the Phoenix Area that give the same view of the city such as Tom's Thumb, Pinnacle Peak, or Piestewa Peak.
All of my hiking adventures can be found on my Instagram. Be sure to tag me or message me in your pictures if you try any of my favorite hike recommendations! Let me know your favorite Arizona hikes in the comments down below!
Xoxo,
Cami
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