5 Easy Walking Trails in Phoenix
I know I talk a lot about hiking in Arizona, but in my opinion, the close proximity to hiking trails in and around the valley is one of the best parts about living here! But I also know there are some days you just need to slow it down and hiking Camelback is not in the cards. The good thing is, there are also plenty of great walking trails throughout Phoenix that will get you outside without pushing you to your limits. These are 5 easy walking trails in Phoenix. Some are located in the local mountain preserves, but there’s a couple that are right in town!
Murphy’s Bridle Path
Image via Google
What was once a gathering spot for equestrian riders to enjoy a Sunday morning pancake breakfast 76 years ago, is now a 10 foot wide, tree-lined path in the heart of central Phoenix. Murphy’s Bridle Path runs along Central Ave, spanning a total of about 2.5 miles one way. You can either start at the northeast corner of Central Ave and Bethany Home Rd, and head north until you reach the canal, or start at the canal and head south. Enjoy shade from the surrounding olive trees and take in the beautiful upscale homes of the neighborhood.
Apache Wash Loop Trail
Image via Hike Arizona
Hike the Apache Wash Loop Trail in a counterclockwise direction for a relatively easy walking trail. The whole trail is about 2.9 miles and takes less than an hour to complete. There are a couple of shallow, sandy washes to cross where it gets a little gravelly, but for the most part, this trail is mostly flat. It offers beautiful, expansive views of the Sonoran Preserve with opportunities to get up close with classic desert plants . Head there in the early morning or evening, and you may even get a front row seat to hot air balloons taking off or landing in the open desert.
Elliott Ramada Loop Trail
Image via Isa Arandia on Alltrails
I spend a lot of time at Papago Park and I always get questions about which trails I usually do there, and I will say, it usually varies on what I am feeling that day. But if you’re looking for an easy walking trail with beautiful views of Papago’s rock formations, the Elliott Ramada Loop Trail is a great choice. It’s partially paved with very little elevation gain. The whole loop trail is 2.8 miles and will likely take less than an hour to complete.
Canal Trails
Image via Sibbach
Did you know Phoenix has a network of trails that run along the canals all through the city? There’s paved paths, ADA-accessible routes, lights for evening strolls, and even areas with commissioned artwork, making the canal trails perfect for easy walking trails in Phoenix. The routes are well-maintained by SRP and other city partners. I like to start at Arizona Falls in Arcadia and walk the canal to Old Town and back, or there’s a section called the Crosscut Canal Trail that’ll take you by Hole-in-the-Rock at Papago Park and behind the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo.
Reach 11 Recreation Loop Trail
Image via Alltrails
The first 0.9 miles of the Reach 11 Loop Trail is paved, making it easily accessible for those with wheelchairs or strollers. After the paved portion, it turns into a dirt and gravel path, which may make wheels difficult. The full trail is about 3 miles and is very flat and easy to walk. You’ll get to be immersed in the surrounding desert and maybe even see some ducks in the frog pond!
Like I mentioned, there are some days you just want to go for a walk and soak in the Vitamin D from the sun without having to scale a mountain. And I totally get that. As always, stay safe when doing anything outdoors. Wear weather appropriate clothing, layer on the sunscreen, and bring LOTS of water. In fact, bring more water than you think you’ll need, even as it gets cooler. Get outside this fall on one of these 5 easy walking trails in Phoenix.
