Whether used as a training hike for epic backpacking trips or as a challenging day hike, the Windgate-Bell Pass Loop satisfies both the urge for a good workout and the desire to wander among the scenic wonders of the Sonoran Desert.
Blessed with dozens of scalable summits and tempting trails within a half-hour drive from Downtown, Phoenix is rightly regarded as America’s premier hiking metropolis. Dedicated elevation junkies can take our “7 Summit Challenge” by conquering seven of the city’s highest peaks during hiking season... or over a single weekend.
City HikesHike the Maricopa Trail Spear S Ranch in New River
Mare CzinarSeptember 27, 2022
Established in 2011, Spear S Trailhead gives access to a splendid stretch of rangeland via paths created by the Hohokam people.
City HikesHike Massacre Grounds in Superstition Wilderness Area
Mare CzinarSeptember 27, 2022
The route cuts through the remnants of 35 million year old volcanic activity.
City HikesHackberry Spring Hike in Superstition Wilderness Area
Mare CzinarSeptember 27, 2022
Intrepid hikers with a good pair of boots can easily find this favorite hideaway in the Superstition Mountains.
City HikesCoyote Canyon In McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Mare CzinarSeptember 27, 2022
One of the most interesting routes in the north section of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Coyote Canyon Trail is already a hiker favorite because of its unique features.
City HikesHike Kiwanis Trail at South Mountain Park
Mare CzinarSeptember 27, 2022
As the trail gains elevation, views of Downtown Phoenix expand from sliver-glimpses to full-blown panoramas.
City HikesHike to Blue Wash-Camp Creek Falls near Carefree
Mare CzinarSeptember 27, 2022
The sandy, canyon-bound courses of Blue Wash and Camp Creek provide an interesting twist on desert hiking.
City HikesHike the Balanced Rock Trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Mare CzinarSeptember 27, 2022
Even in a terrain replete with natural sandblasted granite sculptures, Balanced Rock stands out.
Not for the novice hiker, this combination hike/cross-country exploration leads to a breathtaking secluded box canyon with a tiny, riparian ecosystem.
City HikesPeoria Mountain Trails Offer Outstanding Views of the Valley
Mare CzinarSeptember 27, 2022
With a combined length of more than 11 miles, Peoria's mountain trails combine outstanding North Valley views with customizable lengths and difficulty levels. Here are two to try.
City HikesTom’s Thumb Hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Mare CzinarSeptember 27, 2022
Visible from most of Scottsdale, the curious rock knob known as Tom's Thumb stands out among the pinnacles of the McDowell Mountains.
City HikesFountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve Hike
Mare CzinarSeptember 27, 2022
After decades of planning and construction, the roughly 1,000-acre preserve now occupies a mountainous sliver of space between manicured golf communities and the hiking hubs of Scottsdale's McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
Great views can be had after only a short bit of climbing and vistas improve around every bend.