Hiking is one of the most incredible free activities available to people worldwide, with a list of benefits as long as your arm. In this guide, we’re focusing on the west coast of the United States, in particular Scottsdale in Arizona, highlighting some of the best places for hikers of all skill levels.
The two things I would recommend everyone does or starts to help them to navigate a world that never allows brains to switch off are meditating and getting out into the fresh air. One of the most beneficial ways to get fresh air is through hiking. For those that might think that hiking sounds a little too strenuous, let me put your minds at rest; hiking is quite simply a long walk in the great outdoors!
Hiking has an almost endless range of benefits. It not only improves your physical health but also helps clear and refocus your mind, and while you are out there, you’ll get the chance to learn about and appreciate just how magnificent nature is. Every country on the planet has places where you can go hiking, and the USA is a country with more than its fair share of places to go hiking.
Below we’ll be looking at places to go hiking that will get your heart pumping and help to clear your mind of all the unwanted baggage fast-paced, modern-day-life inflicts on you. There is something for everyone below, from beginners to those who enjoy pushing their bodies a little bit harder.
Places to go hiking in Scottsdale Arizona
With more than 400 miles of well-maintained trails and Saguaro-filled landscapes, hiking is undoubtedly the best way to experience the vast and wonderful Sonoran desert. Named by National Geographic Traveller as one of the nation’s top 15 hiking destinations, Scottsdale is the perfect place for all abilities to put those hiking boots to the test.
If peace, solitude, and a rejuvenating walk are what you fancy, the Gateway Loop Trail is perfect for you. This 4.5-mile trail gains only 655 feet in elevation, making it the perfect leisurely loop to rejuvenate the soul. For a more moderate workout, head to the Pinnacle Peak Summit Trail at Pinnacle Peak Park.
This North Scottsdale gem is a popular introductory choice featuring a wide smooth trail leading you to a summit where your efforts are rewarded with expansive views of the Sonoran desert below. The hike is not long at only 3.5 miles, but an elevation gain of 1,300 feet is sure to require hiking boots!
If you want to go the distance, the McDowell Mountain Regional Park scenic trail offers seven miles of undulating terrain. Hikers should be sure to take their camera on this excursion with the sights of the Verde River and Superstition Mountains offering numerous photo opportunities.
At no additional cost to the ‘Day Use’ entry fee, Interpretive Rangers offer guided hikes through the park if you are looking to go further into the desert without losing your way! These experts have minds filled with interesting facts and knowledge, and joining them will be an ideal opportunity to learn about the wildlife and nature that is localised to the Sonoran Desert, such as the native Coyote and Bobcat.
To further test your limits, a sunrise hike up Camelback Mountain is the ultimate challenge and the perfect way to seize the day. With an elevation of 2,704 feet (taller than the Empire State Building), the Echo Canyon trail is a steep climb to the summit and is the most challenging hike in Scottsdale. Conquering Camelback provides an incredible sense of achievement as well as a heart-racing workout.
For more information, visit www.experiencescottsdale.com.
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