Face masks must be worn publicly throughout Maricopa County. Many businesses are requiring face masks within their establishments as well. Also, please note that some businesses and public spaces are temporarily closed due to COVID-19, so be sure to verify hours of operation before visiting.
Echo Canyon Trail
Distance: 1.2 miles out-and-back
Time: 2-3 hours roundtrip
Trailhead: 4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix. This trailhead has restrooms, benches and water. The parking lot is busy and will typically remain full from early morning throughout the day on weekends
What to expect: This steep and rocky ascent requires assistance of handrails and climbing to reach the top, but the 360-degree views from the summit are worth it. The Echo Canyon Trail is considered to be a more difficult ascent than the Cholla Trail.
Cholla Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles out-and-back
Time: 3 hours roundtrip
Trailhead: 6131 E Cholla Ln, Paradise Valley. This trailhead does not have facilities or designated parking.
What to expect: Cholla Trail is a slightly longer and steadier climb than Echo Canyon, but that doesn't mean it's not tricky. Lower portions are easier to follow, but the last third of the climb is a challenging scramble over large boulders.
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Papago Park
Walk (or bike) around the red buttes at Papago Park. Get Instagram-worthy pics at the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock formation.
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Phoenix Mountains Preserve
The Phoenix Mountains Preserve includes several parks and peaks offering outdoor recreation to hikers and bikers of all skill levels.
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South Mountain Park and Preserve
Hikers can traverse 50 miles of trail at South Mountain Park and Preserve, one of the largest municipal parks in the United States.
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