Great Hikes for Summer in Arizona
When the snow recedes, it seems like everyone else in the country is coming out to play. For those of us who live in the Arizona desert, though, the summertime blues can set in big time when we’re forced indoors to the air conditioning for 3 months straight. Okay, maybe 4. We’re normally spoiled with plenty of glorious hiking weather, and staying inside is downright depressing!
Luckily, our state is diverse, and there are plenty of places you can go when the temps start to sizzle.
Aspen Nature Loop, Flagstaff
Mileage 2.5
Elevation gain 398
Most people go here to see the aspen trees change color in the fall, but it also makes a great high elevation hike during the summer!
Humphrey’s Peak, Flagstaff
Mileage 9.8
Elevation gain 3352
What better way to escape the heat than to hike to the highest point in Arizona? Just watch for summer storms.
Kendrick Peak, Flagstaff
Mileage 9.0
Elevation gain 2788
If you’re not into the crowds at Humphrey’s Peak, you can try its smaller neighbor, Kendrick.
The Crack, Camp Verde
Mileage 7.0
Elevation gain 1057
Sure, the hike out there is pretty warm, but your reward at the end is a refreshing dip in Wet Beaver Creek.
Mount Baldy, Show Low
Mileage 18.1
Elevation gain 2793
Although the entire loop is better done as a backpacking trip, plenty of people enjoy the rocky outcroppings on the East Baldy Trail or the expansive meadows on the West Baldy Trail. Bonus, the Little Colorado River begins here.
Horton Creek, Payson
Mileage 7.2
Elevation gain 1376
This gem of a hike features a perennial creek, plenty of shade from the towering pines, and a gushing spring for those who make it to the end.
See Canyon, Payson
Mileage 6.7
Elevation gain 2144
You can hike this trail all the way to the top of the Mogollon Rim, or just go as far as See Spring. Either way, you’ll enjoy a dense foliage and a pretty creek that can almost make you forget it’s summer.
Waterwheel Falls, Payson
Mileage 1.7
Elevation gain 232
This family favorite leads to a popular swimming hole with a waterfall. The creek and neighboring pools provide opportunities to get away from the crowds.
Marshall Gulch, Tucson
Mileage 4.2
Elevation gain 914
The lucky folks in Tucson happen to live right next to one of the tallest mountains in Arizona, Mount Lemmon. Did you know there’s even a ski resort at the top? The high elevation makes for pleasant summer hiking just an hour from the desert.
Lemmon Loop, Tucson
Mileage 10.4
Elevation gain 3078
There are plenty of trails to explore on Mount Lemmon, but this one travels through the beautiful Wilderness of Rocks. Plus, you get to go to the summit and a lookout point!
Peppersauce Cave, Tucson
Mileage >1 mile
Elevation gain 67 feet
When nothing else works, go underground! This cave with a few formations is easy to navigate and has a pretty lake at the end. Ready to get muddy?
Heliograph Peak, Safford
Mileage 4.2
Elevation gain 1471
Mount Graham in southeastern Arizona provides plenty of high elevation hiking and camping opportunities. This hike visits a 100-foot tall fire tower and provides plenty of spots to take in the views.
Webb Peak, Safford
Mileage 3.4
Elevation gain 1072
Visit a fire tower and pluck wild raspberries on this hike near the ranger station on Mount Graham.
Miller Peak, Sierra Vista
Mileage 11.1
Elevation gain 3717
Miller Peak is the southernmost high point in Arizona, and you’ll be able to see all the way to Mexico from this vantage point. If you’re not keen on tackling the whole hike, the lower part features copious shade and is a popular spot for birdwatching.
Salt River, Mesa
Mileage Up to 12
Elevation gain nope
If you’re stuck in the valley, you can still enjoy the outdoors on a Salt River float. You’ll see birds, fish, wild horses, and maybe even an otter!
Where are your favorite places to hike during the Arizona summer? Let us know in the comments!
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