Here is a great list of the best hikes under 5 miles in Arizona, some even shorter than that. You can easily do any of these after work on Friday or before your Sunday brunch mimosa. Check them out:
Please note, White House Ruin Trail is temporarily closed.
1. Aspen & Marshall Gulch Loop, Tucson
This hike combines two trails--the Aspen and Marshall Gulch--to create a loop. This one is a great one to take if you're looking to escape some of that summer heat without needing to travel too far from the Tucson area. Length: 3.5 miles Information: Hike Arizona
2. Bell Rock Courthouse Butte Loop, Sedona
If you're looking for an iconic Sedona view, this is the trail to take for both incredible sights and the easy trail. For that reason, this one happens to be popular and can be a bit crowded so you may want to head out early. Length: 4.0 miles Information: Coconino National Forest
3. Betatakin, Navajo National Monument
At five miles, this trail is a moderately difficult trail that requires reservations for a guide since it moves through the old ruins found here. The tour starts at 8:15 a.m. Bring extra water! Length: 5.0 miles Information: National Park Service
4. Echo Canyon Trail, Camelback Mountain
Looking for a strenuous hike in an urban setting? Echo Canyon trail on Camelback Mountain in Phoenix is a popular option, but beware because it is deceptively difficult and tends to get crowded. The view, however, is worth it. Remember to hydrate, go on a weekday, and bring more water than you think you may need. Length: 2.3 miles Information: Hike Arizona
5. Echo Canyon Loop, Chiricahua National Monument
A moderately difficult trail, this actually combines three different trails: Echo Canyon, Hailstone, and Ed Riggs trails. It gives you a fantastic view of the wilderness area, including an up close look at the striking hoodoos. Length: 3.3 miles Information: National Park Service
6. Freedom Trail, Piestewa Peak
If you want the satisfaction of hiking along the base of a mountain, walking this loop at Piestewa Peak will be a good option. Early morning is a great time to hike here, especially when you come across the pockets of cool air when descending parts of the trail. Length: 3.6 miles Information: City of Phoenix
7. Hunter Trail, Picacho Peak State Park
Need a REAL hiking challenge that can be done before lunch? The entire hike is a steep one and you'll need to watch your step since the trail can be pretty rough. Parts of the trail also has cables and railings to aid the climb up, and you'll have to go right back down these steep areas. This should tell you that your legs and your fortitude will get a MAJOR workout. Length: 2.9 miles Information: Arizona Highways
8. Lost Dutchman State Park Loop, Lost Dutchman State Park
It will be nearly impossible to get lost on this route, but I'm sad to say you won't encounter any of that fabled gold. It is one of quite a few hiking trails in the area, but this one is good for people new to the area.
Length: 2.8 miles Information: Hike Arizona
9. Monolith Garden Trail, Kingman
One of the more impressive hiking routes located in the Kingman area, this one is quick but not short on nature views. Length: 1.8 miles Information: Bureau of Land Management
10. West Fork Oak Creek Trail, Sedona
The short distance and stunning views make this hiking trail one of the most popular in the state. While fall offers the most colorful experience, the combination of creek, birds, and red canyon walls make this a beautiful experience year round. Length: 4.0 miles Information: Coconino National Forest
11. White House Ruin Trail, Canyon de Chelly
If you want to combine the red rock beauty of Sedona with ancient ruins, this is a good trail to take. It is relatively short and the switchbacks will give you just enough of a workout to get you a little sweaty especially on the way back to the top of the canyon. Length: 2.5 miles Information: Hike Arizona
12. Woods Canyon Lake Trail, Payson
To be fair, this is probably less of a hike and can be more of a leisurely walk around a picturesque lake. It will give you mileage without breaking too much of a sweat, plus you don't have to worry about potentially getting lost in the woods.
Length: 3.9 miles
Information: Hike Arizona
What other hikes would you recommend that are five miles or less? If you're up for more strenuous treks that are worth every step, here are some more great hiking trails in Arizona.
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