Finding the perfect hiking trail for families can be tricky. You want something challenging enough to be engaging, but not so strenuous that little legs get tired (and grumpy!). Phoenix, despite its desert climate, boasts a surprising number of kid-friendly hiking trails offering stunning scenery and memorable experiences. This guide highlights 20 of the best, categorized for easy planning based on difficulty and features. Remember to always bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks!
Easy Peasy Trails: Perfect for Little Ones
These trails are generally flat, short, and offer plenty of opportunities for exploration and discovery. They are ideal for toddlers, preschoolers, and families with young children.
1. Papago Park's Hole-in-the-Rock Trail: This iconic Phoenix landmark offers a short, paved loop with incredible views. Kids will love climbing the rock formation for panoramic views of the city.
2. South Mountain Park's Dobbins Lookout Trail: A short, paved trail leading to a fantastic viewpoint. The wide path makes it stroller-friendly, and the views are breathtaking.
3. Desert Botanical Garden Trails: While not strictly a hiking trail, the garden's various paths offer a gentle, educational walk through the Sonoran Desert. Kids will love spotting diverse plants and wildlife.
4. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park: This park offers a fun train ride, but also several easy walking paths perfect for little legs. The train itself is a highlight, making this a great option for a half-day adventure.
Moderate Adventures: For Growing Hikers
These trails offer a bit more challenge with some elevation gain and longer distances, but remain suitable for elementary-school aged children with reasonable fitness levels.
5. Camelback Mountain's Cholla Trail (Lower Section): While Camelback is known for its challenging trails, the lower section of the Cholla Trail provides a manageable climb with stunning views. Important Note: Avoid the Echo Canyon Trail with young children, as it's much steeper.
6. Tom's Thumb Trail (Lower Section): Similar to Camelback, Tom's Thumb offers a lower section suitable for families. The trail is rocky in parts, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
7. Pinnacle Peak's Nature Trail: While Pinnacle Peak is a significant climb, the nature trail offers a shorter, less intense alternative with lovely desert scenery.
8. Shaw Butte Loop Trail: This trail offers moderate elevation gain with great views of the city. The well-maintained path makes it a relatively easy hike for families.
9. Piestawa Peak Trail (Lower Section): Similar to other mountain trails, Piestawa Peak’s lower section offers a manageable option. This trail is known for its beautiful desert landscape and provides a good workout.
Challenging Trails: For Older Kids and Adventurous Families
These trails are longer and have more significant elevation gain. They're best suited for older children (middle school and up) and families with a good level of fitness.
10. Seven Falls Trail: This trail in McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers a rewarding hike with several waterfalls (seasonal). The longer distance and some rock scrambling make it suitable for older kids.
11. Lost Dog Wash Trail: Located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, this trail features beautiful washes and stunning desert scenery. It’s longer and requires more stamina, making it better suited for more experienced hikers.
12. Brown's Ranch Trail: Another gem in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, this trail is longer and more challenging than the previous options. It offers rewarding views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
13. Usery Mountain Regional Park trails: Usery Mountain boasts a network of trails varying in difficulty. Choose carefully based on your family’s experience level, but many options cater to families with older children.
14. South Mountain Park's National Trail: This trail offers several spurs and options for shorter hikes or longer adventures, depending on your family's preference and stamina.
Trails with Special Features:
These trails offer unique experiences beyond just hiking.
15. Phoenix Mountains Preserve's trails: This extensive preserve offers numerous trails, many suitable for families. Research the specific trails before you go to choose one that matches your family's capabilities.
16. Cave Creek Regional Park: This park features trails with stunning canyon views, and opportunities to explore the creek bed.
17. Papago Park's trails (beyond Hole-in-the-Rock): Papago Park offers other trails besides the Hole-in-the-Rock, providing more options for exploration.
18. North Mountain Park: North Mountain offers a variety of trails, including some easier options suitable for families with younger children.
Tips for Hiking with Kids in Phoenix:
- Start Early: Beat the heat and avoid the midday sun by starting your hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Bring Plenty of Water: Dehydration is a serious concern in the desert. Bring more water than you think you'll need.
- Sunscreen and Hats: Protect your family from the strong desert sun.
- Sturdy Shoes: Choose appropriate footwear for the terrain.
- Snacks: Keep energy levels up with healthy snacks.
- First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries.
- Check the Weather: Be aware of extreme heat advisories and adjust your plans accordingly.
- Tell Someone Your Plans: Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back.
Remember to always prioritize safety and choose trails appropriate for your family's skill level and fitness. Have fun exploring the amazing hiking trails Phoenix has to offer!
