Hiking
Discover our parks, one trail at a time.
Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, hiking is the ultimate way to connect with nature. You’ll find trails in national parks for every skill level, offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, interpretive learning, and memories that last a lifetime. Venture onto the path and let the beauty and grandeur of the West inspire your journey.
A trail for everybody.
No doubt about it, hiking is one of the best ways to explore our parks. You'll find an incredible diversity of terrain and landscapes, including ancient forests, rugged desert trails, and panoramic mountain vistas. You can hike for an hour, an afternoon, or for days on end. Along the way, you'll find historical landmarks and cultural sites that offer a glimpse into the region's past, as well as the lives of its first inhabitants. Oh, and there's plenty of wildlife to see, too.
While hiking in national parks is the perfect activity for pretty much everyone, no matter their age, ability, or level of experience, there are a few things to consider.
Most importantly, the weather in our parks can be both extreme and changeable. Triple digit summer temperatures are not uncommon, and there can also be dramatic swings in temperature, particularly toward the end of the day. Sudden—and potentially heavy—precipitation is also something to watch for.
Fortunately, all of these conditions are manageable with a bit of planning. Even if the forecast looks good, it's always wise to pack extra layers, including a waterproof shell. And definitely bring plenty of water; you might be surprised at how quickly the hot, dry desert air can dehydrate even those who are acclimated to it. Finally, good footwear or gear is essential; a pair of running shoes is great for smoother trails, but for more rugged terrain, we highly recommend a purpose-built pair of hiking shoes and assistive gear.
What to bring
Here are a few more things you'll be very happy to have in your pack.
Sunscreen
SPF 30 and above.
Wide-brimmed hat
You don't need anything fancy, but you'll love having something to keep the sun off your face and neck.
Snacks
Beware those that can melt in the heat, such as chocolate (sorry).
Trail map
Because cell service can be spotty—or even non-existent—in many parks, it's always a good idea to carry an analog map, which you can find at the visitor center.
Guidebook
With the abundance of flora and fauna in our parks, you'll love having a WNP guidebook (available in visitor centers and online) at hand to help identify various species and learn more about their role in these complex ecosystems.
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So many trails, so little time
Here are a few of our favorite national park trails. With so many to choose from, you might consider your options: trail length and difficulty, accessibility, kid-friendly, dog-friendly, shade, and amenities.
Echo Canyon Trail, Chiricahua National Monument
- Length: 3.4 miles
- Moderate
- Average time to complete: 2 hours
Please leave the pups at home. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
This 3.4-mile loop is a premium spot for birding and wildlife watching. Arizona is one of the most sought-after birding locations in the world and fall is a terrific season to explore this beautiful desert and wooded landscape. The awe-inspiring hoodoos and local wildlife make this hike unique and memorable for kids and adults alike. Keep an eye out for coatimundi and wild turkeys.
Desert Discovery Nature Trail, Saguaro National Park
- Length: 0.4 miles
- Wheelchair accessible
- Pet-friendly
This short trail is the perfect way to start or finish a day at Saguaro National Park. With signs identifying the beautiful flora or the Sonoran Desert, it's both refreshing and educational. There are several parking spots at the trail head, or find even more parking at the visitor center.
Potato Harbor, Channel Islands National Park
- Length: 5 miles
- Easy-to-moderate
This hike provides enough scope for the imagination to enthrall hikers of all ages. Bring plenty of snacks and sunscreen as you and the family take in the beautiful ocean and bluff views, with plenty of island foxes—a species of fox found only on the Channel Islands—to keep you entertained. While this hike does not have beach access, there are plenty of ocean views to enjoy. Be aware that Channel Islands National Park requires reservations and a boat ride, so plan ahead.
Where to go
Explore parks for hiking
Plan your next hiking adventure in a WNP park. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting, there’s a trail waiting for you.
Legend
- Partner Park
- Gateway City
