15 Most Stunning Hikes in Arizona

6. Teacup trail

While most tourists head over to Devil’s Bridge, there are more than must-do hikes in Red Rock Country. Over 100 miles of trails featuring views of the towering red rocks can be found throughout Sedona. The little known Teacup trail being one of the best-of-the-best. This underrated trail is actually quite close to town, and thus, a perfect choice of those not looking to travel far. The views are simply out of this world with little effort required (the hike is just 3 miles RT) on your part. Continue on to the Sugarloaf Summit overlook for the most exhilarating 360 degree red rock vista. This is one of the trails I come back to most often, not just for the scenery, but also the easy accessibility and lack of tourists!

Breathtaking scenery from the Sugarloaf Summit trail in Sedona, Arizona

Location: Sedona (Buena Vista Drive)
Cost: Free
Highlight: 360 degree red rock views
Distance: 1.5 miles out-and-back, additional 0.7 miles to the Sugarloaf Summit.
Tip: Treat yourself to lunch at Pisa Lisa (Best pizza in town) or Picazzo’s (organic Italian restaurant with lots of GF options). Both are within a mile of this hike.
More info on hiking the Teacup

7. Aspen Nature Loop

Out of all the gorgeous trails in the Flagstaff region, Aspen Nature Loop is the most peaceful mountain hike. At just 1.5 miles long round-trip, this scenic loop is perfect for hikers of all ability levels. This hike sits at an altitude of 8000+ feet and features gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains.

Instead of cacti in Southern Arizona, the trail is lined with both pines and aspens. It’s alive with greenery in the spring and summer, bustling with fall foliage in autumn, and usually covered with snow in the winter. Beautiful during all of Flagstaff’s 4 seasons, Aspen Nature Loop is a must for outdoor lovers anytime of year.

Location: Flagstaff (9300 N. Snowbowl Rd)
Cost: Free
Highlight: Beautiful foliage
Distance: 1.5 mile loop
Tip: Plan this hike during the fall season. Not only is the foliage on the trail terrific, but also on the way up the 7 mile long Snowbowl Rd.
More info on Aspen Nature Loop

8. Pinnacle Peak

A moderately intense uphill climb up Pinnacle Peak will treat you to the most wonderful views of the Scottsdale area. While the trail is quite challenging due to the uphill nature, it’s nowhere near as difficult as Camelback. In fact, this hike actually offers pretty tremendous scenery considering the amount of effort involved. Be ready for a moderately intense 1.75 mile out-and-back adventure, a great lower body workout, and most importantly, a bird’s eye view of the beautiful Scottsdale region. This jam packed suburb looks so beautiful from above!

Amazing views of Scottsdale, Arizona from Pinnacle Peak Park

Location: Scottsdale (26802 N. 102nd Way)
Cost: Free
Highlight: Amazing vistas of Scottsdale
Distance: 1.75 miles out-and-back
Tip: Avoid the hot summer season
More info on hiking Pinnacle Peak

9. South Kaibab trail

While just visiting the Grand Canyon is an adventure, hiking the Grand Canyon is even more exhilarating. Many come and go unaware that the Canyon is home to a number of hiking trails. If you really want to take in the beauty, especially in a more private manner, consider hiking the South Kaibab trail.

The trek is tough, very tough even for an avid weekend hiker like myself. 7000+ feet, 1.5 miles of a straight uphill climb, but worth every step! The views are insane and surprisingly the trail does not see nearly as much traffic as it should. Continue on to Skeleton Point if you have the endurance to do so and enjoy the once in a lifetime views including a peaceful glimpse of the river.

Magnificent scenery from the South Kalibab trail at the Grand Canyon

Location: Grand Canyon South Rim
Cost: $35 per car entrance fee, good for 7 days
Highlight: Travels through the heart of America’s most incredible natural wonders.
Distance: 1.5 miles out-and-back
Tip: Bring with plenty of water, snacks, avoid monsoon season and get out there early in the day. Only go out to your comfort level: you can turn back at any point!
More info on hiking the Grand Canyon

10. Echo Canyon Grottoes trail

Chiricahua National Monument is a major bucket list contender for photographers and outdoor lovers visiting Southern Arizona. Located just an hour outside of Tucson, this place is an absolute must-visit for anyone who appreciates the unique exotic beauty of the desert. This park features hundreds of unusual hoodoos and weird rock formations. It’s a strikingly odd place with views you will find nowhere else. Consider hiking the Grotto trail, an easy 1 mile trek which will take you to an incredible overview of these ancient hoodoos. I’ve never been more enchanted with an area in my many years of hiking!