We realize that our idea of hiking may look very different from where you’re traveling from. We hope this helps clarify the types of day trips we Arizonans use to prepare for the grandest of hikes on Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon. Feel free to reference it on your visit to the Southwest.

If you are joining us from Arizona, and it’s not 110 degrees outside, then get out there and get hiking!

Mt. Elden – Flagstaff
6.3 Miles, 2,213 ft. elevation gain, out and back

Northern Arizona is a great place to escape from the summer valley heat. Mt. Elden is located on the east side of Flagstaff. From the top, it offers breathtaking city and national forest views.

Humphrey’s Peak – Flagstaff
10.7 miles, 3,395 ft. elevation gain, out and back

Known for being the highest point in Arizona, it’s hard to leave Humphrey’s peak off this list. You can even get a glimpse of the Grand Canyon at the top. Due to its high elevation, this trail should only be used when it’s clear of snow. Yep, snow in Arizona!

Wilson Mountain – Sedona
11.5 miles, 2,805 ft. elevation gain, out and back

Brace yourself for an all-day adventure with breathtaking Red Rock views on this hike. Cautious footing is important on your way back down. The trail contains loose gravel the majority of the way.

Piestewa Peak Summit – Phoenix
2.1 miles 1,148 ft. elevation gain, out & back

For a short, yet challenging hike check out Piestewa Peak. You can access this hike from several connecting trails or at the base of the summit. Conveniently located near the city of Phoenix, this trail makes for a great ½ day adventure. If you have time and energy, many folks do this one twice in a row!

Holbert Trail to Dobbins Lookout – Phoenix
4 miles, 997 ft. elevation gain, out & back

Holbert Trail out and back trail is a cardio challenge over 4 miles. You’re rewarded with views of the city at Dobbins Lookout point.

Camelback Mountain – Phoenix
2.4 miles, 1322 ft elevation gain. Point to Point (Cholla to Echo)

A may access Camelback Mountain via the Echo or Cholla Trail. Or you can start on one trail and end on the other. Camelback is known for its challenging stair-stepper path. This may not be the hike for you if you have a fear of heights. You can expect a scramble between narrow ledges near the top.

Pinnacle Peak – Phoenix
4.0 miles, 1,033 ft elevation gain, out and back

Located on the east side of Phoenix, Pinnacle Peak is a popular trail for local runners. Beat the heat and venture this trail in the early beautiful desert Spring bloom.

Casa Grande Mountain – Casa Grande
3.4 miles, 994 ft. elevation gain, out & back

This “trail” is paved for easy vehicle access to the radio tower located at the top. Don’t let that fool you, though. This short and sweet hike will have your heart racing.

Picacho Peak – Tucson/Phoenix
2.7 miles, 2,030 ft elevation gain, out & back

Picacho Peak is located between Phoenix and Tucson in the beautiful Sonoran Desert. The inclination gets intense as you encounter a chain midway to assist you up the steep peak.