View from the top of Telegraph Pass trail on South Mountain

8 Easy Hikes in the Phoenix Area

Stacey Johnston

April 9, 2026

Maybe you have family in town, or maybe you just need to get the kids outside. Either way, you need a hike that will be fun for the whole family! Some of the hikes on this list lean toward moderate difficulty, so be sure to read the full description before deciding which one is right for your group.

Michelin Man Saguaro

Area Cave Creek
Mileage 0.8
Elevation Gain 68

This segmented saguaro cactus is so rare, you may never see another like it. Connect to nearby trails in the Cave Creek Regional Park to make this easy hike longer.

Michelin Man saguaro cactus in Cave Creek, Arizona

Camp Creek Falls

Area Cave Creek
Mileage 2.9
Elevation Gain 448

Also known as Blue Wash Trail, this waterfall only runs after significant rainfall, but when it does, it’s a blast! Kids will love splashing in the water below the falls.

Sidewinder Trail

Area Scottsdale
Mileage 2.2
Elevation Gain 187

You can find one of the best examples of a crested (or cristate) saguaro on this easy trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

Hieroglyphic Trail

Area Apache Junction
Mileage 2.9
Elevation Gain 642

This hike takes you to a spectacular panel of petroglyphs with nice city views. After significant rainfall, it gets even better with water cascading from pool to pool.

Shaka Cave

Area Apache Junction
Mileage 2.4
Elevation Gain 495

The kids are sure to get excited about visiting a cave, and adults will appreciate the nice view. Luckily, this one is an easier hike than the neighboring Wave Cave.

Shaka Cave in the Superstition Wilderness

Telegraph Pass

Area Phoenix
Mileage 2.3
Elevation Gain 532

Hike up to a viewpoint on South Mountain that overlooks the city. A nice set of petroglyphs makes a great stopping point for those who want an even easier hike.

Lone Mountain (EJ Peak)

Area Mesa
Mileage 2.3
Elevation Gain 792

Get outstanding views of the surrounding desert from this peak, which (as its name suggests) stands apart from the surrounding mountains. Due to elevation gain, this hike is more moderate.

Marcus Landslide

Area Scottsdale
Mileage 4.1
Elevation Gain 592

Learn about an ancient landslide and the geology of the rock formations on this interpretive trail. Kids will enjoy exploring the grotto under Submarine Rock. This hike leans moderate, but it’ll be easier if you skip Submarine Rock.

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