Best Hikes for Kids in Phoenix: East Valley Edition
We’re excited to launch a mini-series of posts covering kid-friendly hikes to enjoy – and a different area each week. (Part posts in this series can be found under hikes in the City of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and West Valley.)
Bookmark this post for reference and share it with your East Valley friends!
This post has all the best hikes in Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek, Gold Canyon, and Apache Junction. Hiking is a great way to soak up this beautiful winter weather, explore the desert, and get exercise as a family!
Remember, a trail might be 3 miles, but you can only go 1 mile if that fits your family better. Bring water, hats, and sunscreen – and have fun!
Reviews on most of these hikes can be found on our website. Alternatively, we have linked to other helpful posts.
Hayden’s Butte (“A”Mountain) – 0.7 miles out and back, partially paved
Tempe Town Lake Trail – 7.4 miles one way, stroller friendly, multiple access points (try Tempe Beach Park)
Rio Salado Walking Path – 19.1 miles one way, stroller friendly, multiple access points (Tempe Beach Park)
Salt River Walking Trail – continuation of Rio Salado, stroller friendly, access from north end of Riverview Park in Mesa
Veterans Oasis Park Loop – 2.5 miles, stroller friendly
Water Ranch Trail, Gilbert Riparian Preserve – 2 miles, stroller friendly
Treasure Loop Trail, Lost Dutchmen State Park – 2.3 miles
Wind Cave Trail – 2.9 miles out and back
Lower Salt River Walking Trail – 2.4 miles, access from Phon D Sutton Recreation Area
Silly Mountain Huff and Puff Trail – 1.4 miles
Sun Circle Trail – 8.7 miles one way, stroller friendly, multiple access points (try Freestone Park)
Discovery Park Loop – 1.5 miles, stroller friendly
Hawes Ridge Loop – 3 miles
Queen Creek Wash Trail – 10 miles one way, stroller friendly, multiple access points (try Desert Mountain Park)
Merkle Trail, Usery Mountain Park – 1 mile, stroller friendly
Hieroglyphic Trail – 2.8 miles out and back
Zanjero Park Path – 2.5 miles out and back, stroller friendly
Stargazer Trail, San Tan Regional Park – 2.3 miles
Apache Tears Trail – 1.8 miles, in and out
Best Hikes for Kids in Phoenix: East Valley Edition
