The diverse landscape of Arizona is a must-visit when you’re in the state. There are numerous areas to explore, such as the Grand Canyon and the Chiricahua Mountains. Hiking through saguaros or taking in the views from the mountains are some of the activities that can be done in the state.
In addition, numerous other natural attractions can be explored in Arizona, such as the mesas, canyons, and volcanoes. These natural features make this region an exciting place to hike.
Many easy and epic hikes can be done in the state. A couple of them are considered the most challenging and bucket-list-worthy hikes. Here are just some of the best hikes in Arizona.
- Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon
The trail that runs through the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, known as the Bright Angel Trail, takes you to the canyon’s edge. You can also hike to the Colorado River. However, this usually requires more than one day.The various points along the trail are known to offer great day-hike destinations. These are also ideal for those looking to complete a more strenuous 12-mile hike.
The trail is very steep and features several drop-offs on the outer edge of the canyon. The weather conditions at the Grand Canyon can vary significantly throughout the season. The best time to visit the area is during the spring and fall.
- Bull Pasture/Estes Canyon Loop Trail, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
This park, located near the Mexico border, is often overlooked. It offers a variety of natural attractions and a fantastic hiking trail.The main reason why people visit this area is to see the organ pipe cacti, only found in the farthest southern portion of Arizona.
This trail takes you through some of the most incredible scenery in the state and offers views of the canyon and the mountains in Mexico. Organ pipe cactuses and saguaros can be found along the trail, and there is also wildlife in the area.
Although the park describes the hike as overexposed cliffs, these are not sheer cliffs immediately off the trail. People with specific concerns should not be alarmed by the natural features along the way.
- Echo Canyon Trail, Chiricahua National Monument
Situated high in the desert of Arizona, this region is known as a sky island. This area is also known for its unique hiking. You can see the towering stone structures through the various ridges and the canyon walls.
One of the most popular trails in this region is the Echo Canyon Trail, which is a 3.5-mile loop. It takes you through some of the most prominent areas in the area.
The trail takes you through various narrow passages and features a slot in the rocks known as Wall Street. The Chiricahua National Monument is a national park in the far southern section of Arizona. Although it doesn’t have accommodations, this region is one of the best campsites in the state.
- Cathedral Rock, Sedona
One of the more prominent landmarks in Sedona is Cathedral Rock. It’s also the site of one of the town’s energy vortexes.
While most people visit the shores of Oak Creek to see the magnificent stone monument, hikers can take a different route to reach the top of Cathedral Rock. This is a beautiful and challenging hike that offers fantastic views.
The hike up to Cathedral Rock is pretty steep, requiring some scrambling in certain sections. In-and-out hiking is also available in this area. This is a one-mile walk that involves a lot of patience.