Arizona is full of sunshine, wide-open skies and beautiful landscapes. It’s a dream for people who love being outside. One of the best ways to explore the state is on foot. From desert trails to mountain paths, Arizona’s national parks offer something for every hiker, no matter your skill level.
Before you hit the trails, don’t forget the essentials! Bring plenty of water for hydration and pack fresh fruit, nuts or cheese to help keep your energy up as you conquer cliffs, canyons and cacti.
Whether you’re looking for a short nature walk or a full-day adventure, here are some of the best national parks in Arizona for hiking.
1. Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. It’s more than a mile deep and over 270 miles long. The views are breathtaking, and the hiking is just as exciting.
For beginners, the Rim Trail is a good place to start. It’s mostly flat and follows the edge of the canyon, offering great views without too much effort. You can hike as much or as little of it as you want.
If you’re more experienced and ready for a challenge, try the Bright Angel Trail. It goes deep into the canyon and offers incredible views, but be warned, it’s a tough hike.
Pro Tip: Hiking in dry, dusty areas can affect both your eyes and mouth. Drink lots of water—hydration supports healthy tear production and saliva, which are key to eye and oral health. Chewing sugar-free gum may also help keep your mouth moist and protect your teeth by boosting saliva production.
2. Saguaro National Park
Located near Tucson, Saguaro National Park is known for its tall, iconic saguaro cacti. These giant plants can live for over 150 years and grow more than 40 feet tall. The park has two sections: one east and one west of Tucson. Both offer scenic hikes through the Sonoran Desert.
The Valley View Overlook Trail is a short, easy trail with a great view at the end. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a peaceful walk. If you want a longer hike, try the Hugh Norris Trail, which climbs into the mountains and gives you a great look at the desert below.
Pro Tip: Sunglasses are a must! Wear sunglasses that block out 100% of UVA and UVB rays for the best protection.
3. Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park is unlike any other place in Arizona. It’s known for its colorful badlands and ancient trees that have turned into stone over millions of years. The rocks come in shades of red, purple and blue, making it feel like you’re walking through a painting.
The Blue Mesa Trail is one of the park’s best hikes. It’s a short loop that takes you down into the hills and past large chunks of petrified wood. The trail is paved but still offers a close-up look at this one-of-a-kind landscape.
This park also has fossils, ancient petroglyphs and parts of old Route 66 running through it.
Pro Tip: If you’re wearing contact lenses, windy trails like this one can stir up dust. Protect your eyes with wraparound sunglasses or even goggles to avoid irritation.
4. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
Although not officially a national park, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is managed by the National Park Service and is just as stunning. It’s located in southern Arizona near the Mexico border and is home to the rare organ pipe cactus, which only grows in this part of the country.
The Desert View Trail is a good starting point. It’s a short loop with views of the surrounding mountains and desert plants. For a longer adventure, the Bull Pasture Trail offers amazing views and more of a workout.
This area is remote and quiet, which makes it a great spot for people who want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.
Pro Tip: Pack water-rich foods like sliced cucumbers, watermelon or oranges. These tasty snacks can help hydrate you and support your overall health while hiking under the Arizona sun.
5. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Sunset Crater, located near Flagstaff, is the site of a volcanic eruption that happened about 1,000 years ago. Today, you can walk through lava fields and around a dormant volcano.
The Lava Flow Trail is a paved loop that gives you a close look at the black volcanic rock and strange, moon-like landscape. It’s great for families and hikers of all levels. You can also explore nearby trails in the Coconino National Forest.
This park is cooler than the desert parks, especially in summer, so it’s a nice break from the heat.
Pro Tip: Cooler temperatures can still be deceiving! Drink water regularly and bring lip balm with SPF to protect your smile from the sun.
6. Tonto National Monument
Tonto National Monument gives hikers a rare chance to step back in time. This park is known for its well-preserved cliff dwellings built by the Salado people over 700 years ago. The views of the Sonoran Desert and nearby Roosevelt Lake make this a scenic and meaningful hike.
The Lower Cliff Dwelling Trail is a short but steep path that leads to ancient homes built into the side of a cliff. Along the way, you’ll see desert plants, wildlife and incredible views of the Tonto Basin. The hike is only about a mile round trip, but it includes some uphill climbing, so take your time and bring water.
If you’re feeling adventurous and visit between November and April, you can also book a guided tour of the Upper Cliff Dwelling, which is only open to the public with a ranger. It’s a longer hike, but well worth it for history lovers!
Pro Tip: Beware of sticky snacks: Dried fruits like raisins and fruit leather seem healthy, but they stick to your teeth and feed cavity-causing bacteria. If you pack them, follow up with a few sips of water to rinse your teeth.
Know Before You Go
Arizona’s beauty is unmatched, but its weather can be extreme. In the summer, many trails can get dangerously hot, especially in the desert. Always check the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks. Be sure to wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen and let someone know your plans, too.
Also, some parks charge entrance fees, so it’s a good idea to check the National Park Service website before you go. Happy trails!
