Arizona Hiking Bucket List: 21+ Hikes in Arizona to do Before You Die

Arizona is home to some of the most breathtaking hikes in the country, offering everything from stunning red rock formations to cascading waterfalls and challenging mountain summits. It’s one of my favorite states that I return to year after year. Whether you’re looking for an easy scenic walk or a strenuous trek, this list covers some of the best hikes in Arizona. It’s the ultimate Arizona hiking bucket list!

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Arizona Hiking Bucket List

I’m obsessed with Arizona. Everytime I visit I seriously contemplate moving there (okaaay, maybe I do that everywhere). BUT, Arizona is home to some of the coolest hikes in all of the USA. Let’s dive into this Arizona hiking bucket list!

1. Devil’s Bridge (Sedona)

• Location: Sedona, AZ
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 528 ft
• Distance: 3.9 miles round trip

Devil’s Bridge is one of Sedona’s most famous hikes (for good reason), known for its stunning natural rock arch that provides an epic photo opportunity. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy for most of the way, but the final section includes a steep climb.

The views from the bridge are spectacular, making the effort (and the wait in the photo line) well worth it. Arrive early to beat the crowds, find a parking spot, and avoid the midday heat.

2. Camelback Mountain (Phoenix)

• Location: Phoenix, AZ
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 1,289 ft
• Distance: 2.9 miles round trip

One of the most popular and challenging hikes in Phoenix, Camelback Mountain offers two steep trails—Echo Canyon and Cholla—both leading to panoramic views of the city. This hike requires scrambling over rocks and navigating steep inclines, making it best suited for experienced hikers (don’t let the short distance fool ya). Bring plenty of water and start early to avoid the heat.

3. Boynton Canyon (Sedona)

• Location: Sedona, AZ
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 700 ft
• Distance: 6.6 miles round trip

This is one of my favorite hikes I’ve ever done! It’s a beautiful canyon hike is known for its towering red rock cliffs and lush greenery and a detour to the coolest cave. Boynton Canyon is also considered a vortex site, attracting visitors seeking spiritual energy. The Subway Cave was once known as the “hidden cave”, but has since gotten much more popular. The climb up to the cave is a bit sketchy, so only proceed if you are comfortable with a bit of a climb! It’s a must during your time in Sedona!

4. Seven Falls (Tucson)

• Location: Sabino Canyon, Tucson, AZ
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 961 ft
• Distance: 7 miles round trip

Seven Falls is a long, but stunning waterfall hike in the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. The trail follows a scenic desert landscape before reaching a series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools. Depending on the season, the water levels can vary, but it’s a great spot to take a dip on a hot day.

5. The Wave Cave (Superstitions)

• Location: Superstition Mountains, AZ
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 820 ft.
• Distance: 2.9 miles

Not to be confused with The Wave in Page, this hike takes you through the stunning rock formations of the Superstition Mountains. The hike can be a bit challenging, with rugged trails and limited shade, so be prepared with plenty of water and shoes with great traction. Once you make it to the top, there’s plenty of room to spread out in the cave for a picnic in the (much needed) shade.

Psst: We did this hike during our time in nearby Fountain Hills!

6. Romero Canyon Falls (Tucson)

• Location: Catalina State Park, Tucson, AZ
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 1,318 ft
• Distance: 6.1 miles round trip

Romero Canyon Falls is a beautiful hike that features seasonal waterfalls and stunning canyon views. The trail starts out easy but gradually becomes more challenging as you climb up the steep trail. Water levels depend on recent rainfall, so plan accordingly. It’s one of my favorite things we did during our weekend in Tucson!

7. Cathedral Rock (Sedona)

• Location: Sedona, AZ
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 669 ft
• Distance: 1.2 miles round trip

Cathedral Rock is a short but steep hike (you seeing this pattern of Arizona hikes???) that involves scrambling up red rock formations. The views from the top are some of the best in Sedona, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. Proper footwear is essential for navigating the rocky terrain. It’s a good one to do at sunset! Just plan for arriving early to get a parking spot or taking the shuttle (as we did not arrive early enough and missed sunset!)

8. Havasu Falls (Havasupai Reservation)

• Location: Havasupai Reservation, AZ
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 3,500 ft
• Distance: 24+ miles round trip

This one is still SO high on my Arizona hiking bucket list (and has been for YEARS). It’s one of the most iconic waterfalls in Arizona, Havasu Falls is a must-see for outdoor lovers. The hike requires a permit and a 2-night overnight stay, but the crystal-clear blue waterfalls are well worth the effort. Reservations must be made in advance, as permits are highly sought after.

9. The Wave (Vermillion Cliffs)

• Location: Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, AZ
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 1,213 ft
• Distance: 6.8 miles round trip

The Wave is one of the most famous rock formations in the world, known for its swirling sandstone patterns. A permit is required to access the area, and only a limited number of visitors are allowed each day. It can be a bit challenging to secure, so your itinerary may need to be a bit flexible. Here are some other fun things to do in and near Page in case you are unable to get a permit.

10. Humphrey’s Peak

• Location: Flagstaff, AZ
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 3,346 ft
• Distance: 9.5 miles round trip

As the highest peak in Arizona, Humphreys Peak offers stunning views from the summit. The hike is strenuous and long, but worth it once you make it to the top. Make sure you have the right hiking boots and that your day pack is fully-stocked as this one will take you at least 6 hours!

11. Antelope Canyon (Page)

• Location: Page, AZ
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Distance: Varies

Antelope Canyon is a breathtaking slot canyon known for its smooth, wave-like rock formations and vibrant colors. Guided tours are required to visit, and they fill up quickly, so book in advance. The best time to visit is midday when sunlight beams through the narrow openings, creating incredible photo opportunities.

12. Weston Lake and Flume Trail (Prescott)

• Location: Prescott
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 429 ft
• Distance: 4.7 miles round trip

The Watson Lake and Flume Trail in Prescott is one of those hikes that keeps things interesting the whole way through. It’s about 4.5 miles and takes you across the Granite Dells, with big boulders you’ll scramble over and winding paths that hug the edge of Watson Lake. The painted white dots along the rocks help guide you through the trickier spots, and before long you’ll come across the old flume by Granite Creek Dam, where water pours through and makes for a cool little oasis. Some stretches are flatter and less scenic, but the mix of rocky climbs, lake views, and that hidden green pocket by the dam make it a fun, memorable loop that’s not too tough but still feels like an adventure.

13. Tom’s Thumb (Scottsdale)

• Location: McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale, AZ
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 1,217 ft
• Distance: 4.0 miles round trip

Tom’s Thumb is a scenic hike that takes you to a towering granite formation with panoramic desert views. The trail is well-maintained but steep, making it a good workout with rewarding scenery at the top. We did this one immediately after getting off our flight, and it was a great way to get a workout in and get acquainted with the beautiful Arizona terrain.

14. Soldier’s Pass (Sedona)

• Location: Sedona, AZ
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 823 ft
• Distance: 4.8 miles round trip

Soldier’s Pass is one of my favorite hikes in Arizona. It offers a mix of stunning red rock views, caves, and sinkholes. The trail is moderately challenging and provides diverse scenery along the way (follow the cave signs to explore a bit off the trail). We did get a bit lost on this one, so make sure to download the trail map before leaving.

15. Birthing Cave (Sedona)

• Location: Sedona, AZ
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 232 ft.
• Distance: 2 miles round trip

Sedona is full of cool caves to check out and this one for sure needs to be on your list. The Birthing Cave is at the end of a short hike and gives you stunning views of Sedona’s red rock formations. It’s an easy and rewarding hike, perfect for a quick adventure.

16. Rim to Rim Grand Canyon

• Location: Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
• Difficulty: Extremely Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 5,278 ft
• Distance: 24 miles one way

This challenging trek takes hikers from one rim of the Grand Canyon to the other. It’s an intense hike that requires preparation, permits, and proper training (you hike from one point to another). Experienced hikers can complete it in one day, but it’s better enjoyed over multiple. I’ve done shorter hikes in the Grand Canyon, but I’d LOVE to complete this one someday.

17. Horseshoe Bend Trail (Page)

• Location: Page, AZ
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation Gain: 200 ft
• Distance: 1.5 miles round trip

A short but stunning hike to one of Arizona’s most photographed landmarks. The best time to visit is sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Due to it’s ease and amazing views, you will be sharing the trail with A LOT of others.

18. Sunrise Peak (Fountain Hills)

• Location: McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Fountain Hills
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 1,100 ft
• Distance: 3.8 miles round trip

Sunrise Peak offers fantastic views of the Sonoran Desert, especially at sunrise when the landscape is bathed in golden hues. The well-maintained trail has a steady incline, making it a great workout without being too strenuous. It’s a favorite among locals for a quick morning hike and a less crowded option than the nearby Camelback!

Keep Reading: How to spend one weekend in Fountain Hills, AZ

19. Wildcat Trail (Monument Valley)

• Location: Monument Valley, AZ
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 400 ft
• Distance: 3.8 miles round trip

This loop trail takes you through the iconic buttes of Monument Valley, giving hikers a close-up experience of the breathtaking rock formations. The hike is on Navajo Nation land, so be respectful of the area. It’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the stunning desert scenery.

20. The Treasure Loop

• Location: Lost Dutchman State Park, AZ
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 500 ft
• Distance: 2.4 miles round trip

Treasure Loop is a short but scenic hike in the Superstition Mountains, offering panoramic views of the desert and rugged rock formations. It’s a great trail for those looking for a rewarding hike without committing to a full-day trek. Wildflowers bloom in the spring, adding to the beauty of the landscape.

21. Bright Angel Trail

• Location: Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Elevation Gain: 4,380 ft
• Distance: Up to 16 miles round trip (hike as far as you like)

One of the most famous trails in the Grand Canyon, Bright Angel descends deep into the canyon, offering spectacular views along the way. The trail is well-maintained with rest areas, but the climb back up is tough. Many hikers go to Indian Garden (9 miles round trip) or Plateau Point (12 miles round trip) for a full-day adventure. Proper planning, hydration, and preparation are essential for this challenging but unforgettable hike.

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Arizona Hiking Trails Recap

Arizona’s diverse landscapes offer a hike for every adventurer, whether you’re looking for an easy stroll through breathtaking scenery or a challenging trek up a rugged peak. From the towering rock formations of Sedona to the stunning waterfalls of Havasu Falls and the vast depths of the Grand Canyon, these trails showcase the best of Arizona’s natural beauty. Be sure to plan ahead, bring plenty of water, and enjoy exploring some of the most incredible hiking destinations in the Southwest!

Here’s a quick recap of the Arizona trails on this list!

1. Devils Bridge (Sedona)
2. Camelback (Phoenix)
3. Boyton Canyon (Sedona)
4. Seven Falls (Tucson)
5. Romero Canyon Falls (Tucson)
6. Cathedral Rock (Sedona)
7. The Wave Cave (Superstitions)
8. Havasu Falls (Havasupai Reservation)
9. The Wave (Page)
10. Antelope Canyon (Page)
11. Tom’s Thumb (Scottsdale)
12. Soldier’s Pass (Sedona)
13. Birthing Cave (Sedona)
14. Rim to Rim (Grand Canyon)
15. Horseshoe Bend Trail (Page)
16. Humphrey’s Peak (Flagstaff)
17. Weston Lake and Flume Trail (Prescott)
18. Sunrise Peak (Fountain Hills)
19. Wildcat Trail (Monument Valley)
20. The Treasure Loop (Superstitisions)
21. Bright Angel Trail (Grand Canyon)

What other hikes would you add to this Arizona hiking bucket list?!