7 Best Hikes in Arizona
Guest Post by Olivia Zelechowski // Olivia is an Arizona native, avid hiker, and loves spending time outdoors. She grew up with her dad and grandfather hunting and her family hiking the Superstitions frequently, so being outdoors has always been a part of her life. I’m so excited for Liv to share her thoughts on 7 of the best hikes in the state of Arizona, ranging from Phoenix to Sedona to Flagstaff. Her favorite adventures are the ones that also involve swimming and enjoying a yummy drink, if ya know what I mean. 😉 All photos are courtesy of Olivia and you can see more on her Instagram, @livrz.
I’m a big fan of hiking, adventure, and when I get to combine those two things with my love for photography, it’s a match made in heaven. I’m fortunate to get to see many amazing and rare places in Arizona while also taking epic photos for couples. Some of my faves include Cathedral Rock and Doe Mountain. I’m pumped for you to read about Olivia’s 7 best hikes in Arizona!
1 | Brown’s Peak
Brown Peaks at Four Peaks is short, but it’s a climb. It’s recommended for those without a fear of heights. It may be one of the most beautiful summit views I’ve ever seen. The 360-degree view including Roosevelt Lake is unforgettable.
Read the AZ Hiker’s Guide for more info.
2 | Boulder Canyon Trail
The Boulder Canyon Trail is found in the Superstition Wilderness. A moderate but rewarding hike with several canyons and creeks to explore if you’re up for navigating some off trail excursions. I recommend dropping down into La Barge canyon.
Read the AZ Hiker’s Guide for more info. 
3 | Cathedral Rock Trail
Cathedral Rock Trail in Sedona is an extremely popular hike, so I recommend this hike during off season or weekdays! It is a very easy trail with a slight climb up a slick rock face before reaching the end of the trail. My favorite part of this trail is the section that runs along the creek. I mostly do this hike to find a secluded, shaded area to drink a few beers and go for a dip during the summer months. It’s also a popular vortex, one of many in Sedona.
Read the AZ Hiker’s Guide for more info.
4 | Inner Basin Trail
Inner Basin trail is in Flagstaff. It’s an easy-moderate trail that starts off in Lockett Meadow with a slight incline into Inner Basin, through switchbacks of aspen trees. I absolutely adore this hike for two weeks out of the year, the first two weeks in October. All of the aspen tree’s leaves turn yellow which makes the small ascent pretty magical.
Read the AZ Hiker’s Guide for more info.
5 | Vultee Arch Trail
Vultee Arch Trail is a popular hike in Sedona. An easy hike with a short but steep climb up to the arch. You will definitely need four wheel drive to reach this trail head, though there are other routes to the arch that requiring more hiking.
Read the AZ Hiker’s Guide for more info.
6 | Reavis Ranch Trail
Reavis Ranch Trail is in the Superstition Wilderness; a sweet summary of all the goodness the east side of the Superstition Mountains has to offer. The hike begins in the desert, moves into grassy highlands, and wraps up with an ascent into pine trees. I did this hike as an overnight backpacking trip but the 14 miles roundtrip are definitely possible to accomplish in a day with preparation. The ending/turn around point is at the Reavis Ranch orchard. The orchard’s grassy meadow has a stream flowing through it and apple trees that still produce fruit every year.
Read the AZ Hiker’s Guide for more info.
7 | Broadway Cave
Broadway Cave is in the Superstition Mountains. You can see this cave driving east on the 60, smack dab in the middle of Superstition Mountain. This takes some route finding but the hike is extremely easy and short.
Read the AZ Hiker’s Guide for more info.
Olivia, thanks so much sharing your favorite hikes with us! I’ve hiked a few of these, but I’m excited to try a few new ones. 🙂
If this post was your jam, you may love Top 5 Coffee Shops in Arizona and Marc and Britt’s adventurous engagement photos in Sedona!
I’d love to hear if YOU have any favorite hikes, in Phoenix or beyond! Comment below and tell me!