Best Family-Friendly Hiking Trails in Tempe and Phoenix Area
Arizona's desert landscapes never fail to impress, especially on a family hike. Towering saguaros command awe, while sightings of quail families, jackrabbits, and lizards spark joy—kids adore mimicking cacti poses or spotting baby quail.
The mild winter and spring weather in Tempe and the greater Phoenix metro area is perfect for introducing children to hiking. These trails blend adventure, nature education, and subtle exercise, ensuring everyone has fun. As local experts, we've curated this guide to the top family-friendly trails, ideal for toddlers to teens.
Essential Safety Tips for Family Hikes
- Pack ample water for all; turn back when half is gone.
- Stick to marked trails to protect the environment and stay safe.
- Bring snacks to prevent hanger—fuel keeps the fun going.
- Pack out all trash to #LeaveNoTrace.
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen generously and reapply often—Arizona sun is relentless.
"A" Mountain
Downtown Tempe – Mill Ave. and Third St., Tempe, AZ 85281
Perfect for energetic kids, this beginner trail starts near the light rail tracks off Third Street and Mill Avenue. Spot the brown trailhead sign, then follow switchbacks up the mountain. Near the first switchback's end, admire ancient petroglyphs on a black rock formation (view from afar—stay on trail).
Climb wooden stairs to a steep paved path leading to the first summit below the giant "A." Enjoy cityscape views, then optionally ascend via stairs and handrail to the true peak. Round trip: ~30 minutes at a steady pace. www.tempe.gov/amountain
Papago Park
Just north of Tempe, this 1,500-acre oasis offers scenic trails, picnic spots, and landmarks like Hole-in-the-Rock, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, and AZ Heritage Center. Focus on Phoenix-side trails (see official map for details).
Double Butte Loop & Elliot Ramada Loop: Park at West Park lot on Galvin Parkway opposite Phoenix Zoo. Access Double Butte Loop for both buttes (picnic tables midway). Elliot Ramada Loop mixes dirt/pavement, wheelchair-accessible.
Hole-in-the-Rock: Use Phoenix Zoo lot, veer left through gates. Short 10-minute trail behind the formation offers stunning city/desert views, busiest at sunset. Nearby lagoon is photogenic.
Hunt’s Tomb: Park near Hole-in-the-Rock or north Zoo lot. Follow paved road around lagoon to this unique white pyramid tomb of Arizona's first governor, George W.P. Hunt. Short, combinable with other trails—rumored Egyptian inspiration.
South Mountain Park & Preserve
Phoenix's massive 16,000-acre preserve (largest urban park in the U.S.) spans Ma Ha Tauk, Gila, and Guadalupe ranges with 50+ miles of trails. Start at Pima Canyon Trailhead off Guadalupe Rd. and 48th St. (use City of Phoenix trail map and descriptions).
Marcos de Niza Trail: Enter left of lot. Steep ascent (~10-20 minutes to summit). Spot protected inscription en route (debated authenticity—great NPR story). Best for ages 6+; extend along ridge or return.
National Trail: From Pima lot, pass yellow pylons straight ahead. Flat, wide path suits ages 3+ (runners thrive); watch for cacti/scorpions. Links to other trails.
Pima Wash to Santa Cruz Hill: Right on Pima Wash Trail pre-ramada. Descend wash, climb; left on East West Loop at hilltop, right on Beacon Hill, then Santa Cruz Hill for skyline views. Return via Beverly/Pima Connector (~1.3 miles, 35 minutes; ages 5+).
Usery Mountain Regional Park
3939 N. Usery Pass Rd., Mesa, AZ 85207
This 3,600-acre park features 30 miles of flat-to-moderate multi-use trails.
Crismon Wash Trailhead: Park dirt lot off Crismon/McKellips. Levee Trail east to Noso north, Blevins west to Crismon Wash south (~3 flat miles, adjustable; ages 3-4+).
Pro Tip: Avoid washes post-rain due to flash flooding.
Wind Cave Trail: Moderate 3+ mile RT, 2,000-ft switchbacks to cave with Valley views. Ages 6+ ($7/vehicle fee; enter off Ellsworth Rd.).
Lost Dutchman State Park
~40 minutes from Tempe, immerse in Sonoran Desert (fees: $7 weekdays, $10 weekends/holidays). Kids 6-12 earn Junior Ranger badges.
Native Plant Trail: Accessible loop right of ranger station. Labeled plants; grab guide. Spot the tracked "Watch Me Grow" saguaro.
Treasure Loop Trail: 2.4-mile moderate loop, 500-ft gain to picnic area.
