Phoenix, Arizona
Looking for the best running in Phoenix? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Phoenix. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.
Top Running Spots in and near Phoenix
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Phoenix, Arizona
Piestewa Peak Summit
4.42.25 mi / 1050 ft gainPiestewa Peak, formerly known as Squaw Peak and conveniently located in the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area, is a relatively short hike that yields impressive views of the city and is a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Piestewa Peak is a popular spot for locals who do not want to drive or...Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Mojave Connector Trail #202
2.18 mi / 820 ft gainThe best starting point to access this hike is parking at the Mojave Picnic Area and heading up the Mojave Trail #200. At .4 miles, you will hit the junction and stating point for the Mojave Connector Trail. Head left at the saddle and begin a rapid ascent up switchbacks to a small flattened summ...Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
North Mountain Trail
4.71.42 mi / 571 ft gainBeginning from the start of the trail on 7th Street, this short hike can be a good quick workout that offers great views of the greater Phoenix area. Be aware that this hike is a fairly steep climb 600 feet to the top. Once you reach the summit of North Mountain you'll find great views of the...Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Mojave Trail #200
4.51.88 mi / 430 ft gainThe entrance for the Piestewa Peak area is located at 2701 E. Squaw Peak Drive. The Mojave Picnic Area & Trailhead is the first parking area on the right. This is a very popular trail when the outside temps drop a bit so get there early for sunset hikes to ease parking. The trail begins on t...Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Ruth Hamilton Trail
3.32 mi / 981 ft gainRuth Hamilton Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Phoenix, Arizona.Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Quartz Ridge Trail
4.52.29 mi / 509 ft gainQuartz Ridge in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve (also known as Trail 8A) is a great escape getaway trail that can be done as a single track or combined with many intersecting trails. It is a very popular trail for hikers, trail runners, pet walkers, sky gawkers and more! The trailhead sits in a sm...Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Shaw Butte Trail
5.04.22 mi / 866 ft gainThe Shaw Butte Trail is a short loop hike that leads you to the top of Shaw Butte in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve. Beginning from the trailhead on Central Avenue, The first section of trail follows a steady uphill service road to the top. Near the top you'll find an array of towers and a good...Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Shadow Mountain Loop
2.07 mi / 600 ft gainShadow Mountain Loop is a loop trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Phoenix, Arizona.Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Echo Canyon Trail on Camelback Mountain
4.52.46 mi / 1214 ft gainIf you live near or around Phoenix, you know that Camelback Mountain is pretty hard to miss. Due to the mountain's height, this hike isn't exactly what you would call easy. There are two sides of the mountain you can hike, Echo Canyon and Cholla Trail. Echo Canyon is shorter, but still an extreme...Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Arizona Canal Trail
5.03.58 mi / 46 ft gainArizona Canal Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Phoenix, Arizona.Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Double Butte Loop
4.42.2 mi / 151 ft gainFrom the rocks in Papago Park you can see all of Tempe and into Downtown Phoenix. During the summer it is a tremendous vantage point to watch the infamous haboobs (intense dust storm) roll through the valley. If they're at sunset or just before, the color experience is phenomenal. Of course, y...Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Hole in the Rock
3.90.27 mi / 33 ft gainPapago Park is located right next to the Phoenix Zoo. The park is known for its rock formations and short hiking / running trails. The main attraction, the Hole in the Rock, at the top of the short trail, is a great place to take pictures as it is one of the highest points in the area and it off...Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Reach 11 Trail
4.06.3 mi / 118 ft gainLocated in north Phoenix, Arizona, the Reach 11 Recreation Area offers an extensive network of trails winding through 1,500 acres of preserved desert habitat. This urban trail system provides a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure within city limits, offering a unique blend ...Read more -
Phoenix, Arizona
Acer Summit Via Mormon Trail
2.46 mi / 758 ft gainAcer Summit Via Mormon Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see wildflowers located near Phoenix, Arizona.Read more -
Glendale, Arizona
Thunderbird Park 3 Peaks Loop
5.07.31 mi / 1417 ft gainThis is a great spot to go for a quick run or a short hike if you're in North Phoenix. Thunderbird park is easily accessible with free entry and a number of picnic areas. There are 3 main hills with a variety of trail options to hike up/around each. From the top you'll find a nice view of valley...Read more -
Glendale, Arizona
Arrowhead Point Loop
2.37 mi / 492 ft gainThe Arrowhead Point Loop in Arizona is a 2.4-mile trail located in Thunderbird Conservation Park near Phoenix, Arizona. This trail offers a moderately challenging route with rewarding desert views, particularly at sunrise or sunset. The loop trail features rocky terrain and mild elevation gain,...Read more