The 17 Best Hiking Destinations in Arizona

With a nickname like the Grand Canyon State, you can bet that Arizona boasts some incredible landscapes. In addition to the Grand Canyon, it’s also home to the Tonto Rim, Palm Canyon’s rare stands of native trees, ancient lava flows, spectacular slickrock, and the brilliant turquoise of Havasu Falls.

Laced through all that rugged terrain are an array of trails for every hiker. From ADA accessible loops with unbeatable views to truly challenging treks for outdoor enthusiasts, there’s something for everyone. If you’re wondering how to make the most of your time in the Grand Canyon State, these are the best hiking destinations in Arizona.

Bright Angel Trail

Best hike for exploring the Grand Canyon
Up to 12 miles, Difficult

The Bright Angel Trail is a scenic 7.8-mile descent to the Colorado River with several logical day-hike destinations. Though steep, it features long stretches winding down without precarious drops, making this an excellent choice for families. Summer heat can be intense; therefore, hikers should consider turning around at one of the two rest houses or start early to safely complete the longer hikes.

Havasu Canyon

Best hike for seeing waterfalls
20 miles, Difficult

Havasu Creek flows through the Grand Canyon, creating a series of beautiful waterfalls about 10 miles below the rim on the Havasupai Reservation. Rain and seasonal floods can affect access to the falls, which can only be reached by foot, mule, or helicopter. Trails involve multiple river crossings and some rope sections.

Cathedral Rock

Best hike for exploring vortexes
1.5 miles, Moderate

The Cathedral Rock vortex is a stunning location for watching red-rock sunsets. You can ascend 550 feet on a 1.5-mile round-trip trail; however, be prepared for some scrambling up a steep rock face.

North Kaibab Trail

Best for a challenging hike
14 miles, Difficult

The North Rim features strenuous switchbacks, lush waterfalls, and cottonwood-fringed campsites. Popular for both day hikes and longer backpacking trips, this trail allows hikers to experience the magnificent inner canyon.

Pine Creek Trail

Best for seeing natural stone bridges
1 mile, Moderate

Discover the impressive Tonto Bridge, a natural formation created over countless centuries through erosion. This remarkable travertine bridge is thought to be the world’s largest and serves as the centerpiece of a scenic state park with well-maintained trails.

Thunder River Trail

Best for multi-day treks
21.5 miles, Difficult

This trail connects multiple waterfalls and swimming holes, creating an excellent adventure for backpackers seeking to explore the treasures of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim.

West Fork Trail

Best for swimming holes and fall colors
6.5 miles, Moderate

This favorite trail crosses Oak Creek a dozen times and features stunning canyon walls. If you seek scenic fall colors, plan your visit to enjoy the vibrant foliage.

Camelback Mountain

Best for a punishing climb and stellar views
Distance varies, Difficult

This iconic twin-humped mountain offers short but steep trails with a significant elevation gain. The Cholla Trail and Echo Canyon Trail promise a rigorous workout followed by breathtaking vistas of Phoenix.

Boynton Canyon

Best for rock formations and vortexes
6 miles, Moderate

Boynton Canyon is known for its stunning petroglyphs and shaded stretches. Hikers will encounter the rock formation known as Kachina Woman, one of the area’s major vortexes.

Widforss Trail

Best for forest hiking
5 miles, Moderate

This scenic trail meanders through shady forests, offering a peaceful experience while exploring the natural beauty of Arizona’s wilderness.

Palm Canyon

Best for unique flora
1 mile, Easy

Explore a unique desert area north of Yuma, where Arizona’s only native fan palm trees thrive. This short hike offers a connection to the region’s ecology and wildlife.

South Kaibab Trail

Best for views of the Grand Canyon
Distance varies, Difficult

The South Kaibab Trail boasts stunning scenery and breathtaking views with every step. Be mindful of the challenging conditions, especially during warmer months.

East Rim View

Best for accessible overlooks
Distance varies, Easy

This overlook features impressive views into the surrounding wilderness, making it perfect for visitors looking for easy access to stunning landscapes.

Piestewa Peak

Best for views of Phoenix
1.1 miles, Difficult

This summit offers a tough trek but rewards climbers with panoramic views of the Phoenix area. Be prepared for a busy trail, especially on weekends.

Cathedral Wash

Best for canyoneering
3.3 miles, Difficult

Cathedral Wash presents a thrilling canyoneering experience with opportunities for adventurous hikers to explore stunning landscapes.

The Lava Flow Trail

Best for seeing ancient volcanic activity
1 mile, Easy

This simple loop trail showcases the beauty of ancient volcanic formations, providing insight into the geological history of Arizona.

Secret Slickrock Trail

Best for photographers
0.7 miles, Easy

A hidden gem ideal for photographers, this trail provides beautiful views with its reflections in the stone pools, perfect for capturing stunning imagery.