Best Things To Do In Phoenix – Your Outdoor Adventure & Survival Guide
Phoenix isn’t just a city; it’s a sprawling gateway to the raw, stunning beauty of the Sonoran Desert. But for outdoor enthusiasts, that beauty comes with a serious challenge: the intense sun and rugged terrain can be intimidating, especially if you’re new to desert environments.
You want to explore, but you also want to be smart and safe about it. You’ve heard the stories of unprepared hikers needing rescue, and you want to avoid becoming one of them. That’s a wise approach, and it’s exactly what separates a prepared adventurer from a tourist in trouble.
This guide promises to show you how to confidently tackle the best things to do in Phoenix from an outdoor perspective. We’ll go beyond the typical lists and give you the practical skills, safety protocols, and gear advice you need. You’ll learn how to master iconic desert hikes, find serene spots for paddling and stargazing, and understand the best practices for exploring this unique landscape sustainably.
Mastering Desert Hiking: Iconic Trails & Safety Essentials
Phoenix is a hiker’s paradise, but the desert demands respect. Understanding how to approach these trails is the most important part of this Best things to do in Phoenix guide. It’s not just about the walk; it’s about preparation, timing, and hydration.
The most common problems with hiking in Phoenix stem from underestimating the heat and dehydration. Even on a “cool” 85°F day, the direct sun can quickly deplete your energy and water reserves.
Camelback Mountain (Echo Canyon and Cholla Trails)
Camelback is the crown jewel of Phoenix hiking, but it’s not a casual stroll. Both main trails are rated as extremely difficult. Echo Canyon is a steep, rocky scramble, while Cholla is longer but still involves significant exposure and rock navigating.
- Who It’s For: Experienced hikers with excellent fitness and no fear of heights.
- Safety Tip: Start before sunrise. In the summer, this is non-negotiable. The goal is to be off the mountain by 10 AM at the latest.
- Gear Pro-Tip: Wear hiking shoes with excellent grip, like the La Sportiva Bushido II or Merrell Moab 3. Trekking poles won’t help much on the scrambling sections; you’ll need your hands free.
Piestewa Peak Summit Trail
Often considered Camelback’s slightly less intense sibling, Piestewa Peak is still a serious workout. It’s a relentless series of stone steps and switchbacks that gains over 1,100 feet in just 1.1 miles.
- Who It’s For: Hikers looking for a challenging cardiovascular workout with incredible 360-degree city views.
- Hydration is Key: Bring more water than you think you need. A 3-liter hydration reservoir like a CamelBak or Osprey Hydraulics is standard. Add an electrolyte powder, like Nuun or Liquid I.V., to one of your bottles to replenish lost salts.
South Mountain Park and Preserve
As one of the largest municipal parks in the country, South Mountain offers trails for every skill level. This is the perfect place for beginners to build their desert hiking confidence or for anyone seeking a less crowded experience.
- Beginner-Friendly Pick: The Mormon Trail to Hidden Valley loop is a moderate 3.4-mile trek that offers a great taste of the park’s geology without the extreme elevation gain of the peak trails.
- Best Practices: Always check the trail map before you start. Let someone know your route and estimated return time. Cell service can be spotty in the park’s interior canyons.
Paddling the Desert: A Guide to the Lower Salt River
One of the most surprising and rewarding things to do in Phoenix is to get on the water. The Lower Salt River, just east of the city in Tonto National Forest, offers a cool escape and a chance to see wild horses, bald eagles, and other riparian wildlife.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
For a more active and self-reliant experience, bring your own inflatable kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP). Using your own vessel gives you the freedom to explore side coves and pull over whenever you want.
We recommend a durable inflatable like the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak for beginners or an iRocker All-Around 11′ for a stable SUP experience. Remember to purchase a Tonto National Forest Discovery Pass for parking.
Sustainable Floating and Tubing
The Salt River is famous for tubing, but you can do it responsibly. The benefits of a sustainable approach include preserving the river’s delicate ecosystem for future adventurers.
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: This is the golden rule. Secure all your belongings, especially trash, in a mesh bag clipped to your tube. A loose plastic bag can easily fly away or rip open.
- Eco-Friendly Best Practices: Avoid glass containers entirely. Use a reusable water bottle instead of single-use plastics. If you see trash left by others, and can safely grab it, do so.
- Wildlife Etiquette: Observe the famous Salt River wild horses from a distance. Never feed them or approach them. They are wild animals, and getting too close can be dangerous for both you and them.
Stargazing & Dispersed Camping: Finding Dark Skies Near the City
Phoenix’s city lights can obscure the night sky, but you don’t have to travel far to find incredible stargazing. This is a perfect activity for RV travelers, overlanders, or anyone with a tent looking to connect with the desert on a deeper level.
Where to Go for Dark Skies
Head east towards the Superstition Mountains or north towards the Tonto National Forest. Areas around Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, and the Four Peaks Wilderness offer significantly darker skies.
Use a light pollution map app like Dark Sky Finder to pinpoint the best locations. Look for areas designated as Bortle Class 3 or 4 for a dramatic improvement over the city’s Class 8-9 skyglow.
Dispersed Camping 101
Dispersed camping (camping outside of a designated campground) is permitted in most National Forests, but it comes with responsibilities. This is a core skill for self-reliant explorers.
- The Rules: Camp on durable surfaces at least 200 feet from water sources. Use existing fire rings if available and always check for current fire restrictions—they are common and strictly enforced.
- Essential Gear: You’ll need to be completely self-sufficient. This means bringing all your water (at least one gallon per person, per day), a portable toilet system like a Luggable Loo or a simple wag bag kit, and a way to pack out all your trash.
- Leave No Trace: The goal is to leave your campsite looking as if you were never there. This is the cornerstone of any eco-friendly Best things to do in Phoenix adventure.
Wheels in the Wilderness: Gateway to Arizona Overlanding
Phoenix is a launchpad for some of the most spectacular overlanding and off-road trails in the American Southwest. For those with a capable vehicle—from a stock 4×4 SUV to a fully built campervan—the surrounding deserts and mountains offer endless exploration.
Beginner-Friendly Off-Road Trails
Before tackling a multi-day route, get comfortable with your vehicle on a day trip. These trails offer a great introduction without being overly technical.
- Four Peaks Road (NF 143): This graded dirt road offers breathtaking views as it climbs into the Mazatzal Mountains. It’s generally passable for any high-clearance vehicle when dry.
- Apache Trail (State Route 88): (Note: A portion is currently closed due to storm damage, check official ADOT sources before going). The unpaved section of this historic road is a classic Arizona drive with steep canyon walls and stunning lake views.
Overlanding Best Practices
Venturing off-pavement requires a different mindset. How you prepare for the best things to do in Phoenix on four wheels is critical.
Always travel with a full tank of gas, a quality tire plug kit and air compressor (like the Smittybilt 2781), and a reliable offline map app like Gaia GPS or onX Offroad with the maps for your route pre-downloaded. Recovery gear, like traction boards (MAXTRAX or X-BULL) and a shovel, is a must-have, even on “easy” trails.
Sustainable Exploration: An Eco-Friendly Adventure Guide
Enjoying the best of Phoenix’s outdoors means protecting it. A sustainable mindset ensures these beautiful places remain for generations. This isn’t a separate activity, but a philosophy to apply to everything you do.
Embrace Leave No Trace Principles
The seven Leave No Trace principles are the foundation of responsible outdoor recreation. They are simple but powerful.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Reduce Your Impact
Think about your resource consumption. Use reusable water bottles and food containers to minimize trash. When washing dishes or yourself, use biodegradable soap and stay 200 feet away from any water source.
Supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability is another great way to contribute. Look for gear outfitters or tour companies that are vocal about their conservation efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Things to Do in Phoenix
What is the absolute best time of year to do outdoor activities in Phoenix?
The prime season is from October through April. During these months, the temperatures are mild and pleasant, making hiking, camping, and exploring much safer and more enjoyable. The summer months (June-September) are dangerously hot, and most outdoor activity should be limited to very early mornings or high-altitude areas north of the city.
As a beginner, what is the one most important safety tip for hiking in Phoenix?
Carry more water than you think you will need. Dehydration is the single biggest risk. A good rule of thumb is to carry at least 1 liter of water for every hour you plan to be on the trail. And start drinking before you feel thirsty.
Are there any dangerous animals I should worry about in the Phoenix area?
Yes, the Sonoran Desert is home to rattlesnakes, scorpions, and Gila monsters. However, encounters are rare and bites are even rarer. The best practice is to be aware of your surroundings. Never put your hands or feet where you can’t see, watch where you step, and give any wildlife you see plenty of space. They almost always want to avoid you.
Do I need a special pass or permit for these activities?
It depends on the location. City of Phoenix parks like South Mountain and Piestewa Peak are generally free to enter for hiking. However, areas in the surrounding Tonto National Forest, like the Salt River and many trailheads, require a Tonto National Forest Discovery Pass, which you can buy at many local gas stations and stores.
Exploring the outdoors around Phoenix is an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to build real skills, challenge yourself, and connect with a landscape that is as resilient as it is beautiful. By preparing properly, respecting the environment, and always prioritizing safety, you can go beyond just visiting and truly adventure with confidence.
Now, grab your water bottle, check the forecast, and get ready to explore. The desert is waiting.
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