Top 20 Kid Friendly Hiking Trails In Phoenix

Nathan Jahnke

3 min read

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20-12-2024

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Phoenix, Arizona, despite its desert landscape, offers a surprising number of kid-friendly hiking trails. Choosing the right trail is crucial for a fun and safe family outing. This list compiles twenty excellent options, categorized for easier navigation, considering factors like distance, elevation gain, and scenery.

Easy Trails (Perfect for Young Children & Beginners):

1. Papago Park Trail: This easily accessible trail offers stunning views of Hole-in-the-Rock and is relatively flat, making it ideal for strollers and toddlers. Remember water and hats!

2. South Mountain Park & Preserve (Easy Sections): While South Mountain is vast, several sections boast gentle inclines and shorter loops, perfect for shorter hikes with younger children. Look for trails near the Dobbins Lookout area.

3. Camelback Mountain (Echo Canyon Trail - Lower Section Only): While Echo Canyon is famously challenging, the lower section offers a manageable, shorter hike with rewarding views. Caution: Do not attempt the entire trail with young children.

4. Piestewa Peak (Lower Sections): Similar to Camelback, Piestewa Peak's lower trails offer accessible options. Stick to well-maintained paths and avoid steeper sections.

5. Dreamy Draw Recreation Area (Easy Loops): Dreamy Draw provides several easy, well-marked loops perfect for families. The scenery includes beautiful desert flora.

Moderate Trails (Suitable for Older Children & Active Families):

6. Tom's Thumb Trail (Lower Sections): This trail provides some elevation gain but offers breathtaking panoramic views. Again, avoid the strenuous upper sections with younger children.

7. Shaw Butte Loop Trail: A moderate hike offering a good workout with scenic views of the surrounding area.

8. Phoenix Mountain Preserve (Various Trails): This preserve features trails of varying difficulty. Choose shorter loops with less elevation for a family-friendly experience.

9. Hole-in-the-Rock Trail (Papago Park): While mentioned earlier for its easy accessibility, this trail can offer a moderate experience depending on which routes are chosen.

10. North Mountain Park (Specific Easy-to-Moderate Trails): North Mountain boasts a diverse trail system; careful trail selection is key to ensuring a family-friendly hike. Check trail maps before heading out.

Longer Trails (For Experienced Hikers & Older Children):

11. Camelback Mountain (Cholla Trail): The Cholla Trail is a challenging hike, but it is generally considered less steep than Echo Canyon. Only attempt this with older, experienced children.

12. South Mountain Park & Preserve (Longer Loops): Several longer loops within South Mountain offer a more challenging but rewarding hike. Ensure everyone is prepared for a longer excursion.

13. Piestewa Peak (Summit Trail): Reaching the summit of Piestewa Peak is a significant accomplishment. This is best attempted only with older children who are in excellent physical condition.

Trails with Unique Features:

14. Papago Park (Petroglyph Trail): Explore ancient petroglyphs while enjoying a moderate hike.

15. Lost Dog Wash Trail: This trail offers a unique desert experience, though some sections can be rocky and uneven.

16. Usery Mountain Regional Park (Easy Trails): This park offers a variety of trails; selecting easy loops provides a great family-friendly experience.

17. Verde River Greenway: Provides a relatively flat and scenic walk or bike path suitable for various ages.

18. Mountain Preserve (Specific trails): Many trails here are great for families; choose easy to moderate paths.

19. Cholla Trail (Moderate): This trail offers spectacular views and is more moderate than the summit trails mentioned above.

20. McDowell Sonoran Preserve (Easy Trails): This large preserve contains many paths ideal for different levels. Selecting easier trails with children is critical.

Important Considerations:

• Water: Bring plenty of water for everyone, especially during warmer months.
• Sun Protection: Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential.
• Appropriate Footwear: Sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Trail Conditions: Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.
• First Aid: Pack a basic first aid kit.

This list provides a starting point. Always research specific trails and choose ones appropriate for your family's experience level and fitness. Remember to prioritize safety and have fun!