Best Hikes for Kids in Phoenix: Scottsdale Edition. We’re excited to launch a mini-series of posts covering kid-friendly hikes to enjoy – and a different area each week. (Upcoming in the series: East Valley hikes; check out past posts for the City of Phoenix, and West Valley hikes.) Bookmark this post for reference and share it with your Scottsdale friends!
This post has all the best hikes in Scottsdale PLUS Cave Creek, Carefree, and Fountain Hills. 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.
Mayo Clinic Scottsdale Nature Trail – 0.9 miles, stroller friendly
Scottsdale Nature Trail – 0.5 miles, connects to Scottsdale Greenbelt and the canal
Scottsdale Greenbelt, starting at Mountain View Park – 2 miles, paved
Pinnacle Peak – 3.5 miles in and out, can go just 1/2 mile for amazing views
Marcus Landslide Trail – 3.8 miles in and out
Kovach Family Nature Trail – 0.5 miles, stroller friendly
Wagner Trail Loop , McDowell Mountain Regional Park ($7/entry)- 2.2 miles
Fountain Hills Botanical Garden – 0.7 miles in and out, free
Arizona Canal Trail, starting at Arcadia Park – 3.6 miles in and out, paved
Blue Wash Trail – 2.8 miles in and out
Fairy Duster Loop, Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area – 1.3 miles ($3 entry fee)
Metate Trail, Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area – 2 miles ($3 entry fee)
Jewel of the Creek – 2.5 miles
Desert Awareness Park – two easy nature trails, less than a mile
Bajada Nature Trail – 0.7 mile loop, stroller friendly
Fountain Park Overlook Trail – 1.8 miles
Best Hikes for Kids in Phoenix: Scottsdale Edition
