Dog-Friendly Hikes: Arizona

Dog-Friendly Hikes: Arizona

Posted by Jen Sotolongo on 17th October 2017


Arizona offers some of the best year-round hiking in the
country, especially when the cold and snow leave you trapped inside during the
winter months. With a wide variety of easy to challenging trails, Discover beautiful
desert hiking with plenty of swimming holes, red rocks, and views close to
major cities like Phoenix, Sedona, and Flagstaff. Should you plan your hikes
during the hotter months, bring plenty of water—more than you think you’ll
need. Also, keep in mind that rattlesnakes are present throughout the state, so
keep your dog on leash.



Easy


Hieroglyphic
Trail
(Gold Canyon) — Early
European settlers mistook the basalt rock etchings seen on this hike for
Egyptian hieroglyphs, hence the name of the trail. The etchings are actually
petroglyphs carved by the Hohokam People. Accessible for all hiking levels, try
this short hike in early spring, when you can catch a seasonal waterfall.


Horton Creek (Payson) — With plenty of shade and water
access, Horton Creek is a perfect trail to hit during the hot summer months,
near Mogollon Rim. Follow Horton Creek most of the route until the trail ends
just near the Horton Spring, just off of Highline Trail. There, icy water
gushes from the underground spring. Turn around at the spring for an
out-and-back or continue on to complete an eight-mile loop.


Upper
Waterholes Canyon
(Page) — Easy to
get to and relatively unknown,
Upper
Waterholes Canyon
is a great spot for those wanting to hike a
non-technical slot canyon with their dog. This short hike meanders along
sandstone walls that change color depending on the time of day. Keep in mind
that flash floods are a real danger, so never enter a canyon when the forecast
calls for rain or thunderstorms and be aware of rattlesnakes in the area and
keep your dog on leash at all times.


Moderate


Inner
Basin Trail
(Flagstaff) — Surrounded by
snow-capped peaks towering more than 11,000 and filled with aspen trees that
shine bright gold in October, the easy Inner Basin Trail is a must do during
the fall. With a steady climb to the peak, the steady climb is worth the reward
for the view from the top.


Devil’s Bridge (Sedona) —
Despite the heavy foot traffic, this classic Sedona hike offers incredible
views and a trek to the largest natural stone arch in the Sedona area.
Trailheads start in a variety of parking lots, ranging in distance from two to
six miles round trip of hiking. Start early to avoid the crowds and the heat.


Abineau-Bear
Jaw Loop
(Flagstaff) — Hike through forested canyons in the shadow of
Arizona’s highest point, Humphrey’s Peak on this seven-mile loop. This trail is
colorful year round with vibrant wildflowers in the spring, sunflowers in the
summer, and groves of golden aspens in the fall.


Wave
Cave Trail
(Superstition Wilderness) — Plan to arrive at the “wave cave” in
the evening for an epic sunset and the chance to take some beautiful silhouette
photos. This tough, but short trail is easy to get lost on, so be sure to keep
a map or offline directions with you to ensure you’re headed the right
direction.


Difficult


Peralta Trail (Superstition
Wilderness) — Don’t let the parking lots full of cars deter you from this
trail. Yes, the trail will be crowded to popular Fremont Saddle, which offers
stunning views of Boulder Canyon, Weavers Needle and endless mesas, buttes, and
peaks, but it thins out beyond. At the Dutchman Trail junction, either return
the way you came or continue for a loop back to the trailhead.


Boulder Canyon Trail (Superstition
Wilderness) — Head out for the day or overnight on this challenging hike deep
into the backcountry. The trail begins steeply, offering views of Canyon Lake
before meandering into La Barge Canyon, where plenty of campsites await. Though there are fairly reliable water
sources along the trail, be sure to bring plenty of water. January and February
are the best times of year to attempt this hike.


Fossil Springs Trail (Tonto National
Forest) — This strenuous hike offers beautiful views and a waterfall and cave
in which to swim and cool off. Loose rock and a steep ascent makes the return
challenging, so be sure to take a nice long break at the waterfall. In a
successful attempt to limit crowds, permits are required between May 1 and
October 1. Bring at least 2 gallons of water per person and the same for your
dog.

Jen Sotolongo is a writer and photographer and runs Long Haul Trekkers, a blog about independent, responsible travel with a pet. Over the past 1.5 years, she and her partner have taken their dog, Sora on a cycle tour spanning across Europe and South America, proving that adventures can include your dog, no matter where in the world they may be.


Are we missing your favorite Arizona hike with your dog? Mention it in the comments and we will add it to the list! Or find another hike from our dog-friendly hiking guides.


Make sure you are ready to hike by reading out 15 Tips for Hiking with Your Dog and reviewing the Dog Hiking Checklist.

Recent posts

Does My Dog Need a Dog Collar or a Harness?

Does My Dog Need a Dog Collar or a Harness?

Trying to decide which is better for your dog—a collar or a harness? The short answer is: You may need both. It really depends on the size and temperament of your dog and what it takes to maintain safe control of him.

Read More About Does My Dog Need a Dog Collar or a Harness?

Why Does My Dog Bark in the Car?

Why Does My Dog Bark in the Car?

A dog barking in the backseat of the car can be a real nuisance—and even a hazard—for human drivers. But for dogs, barking is a way of communicating. In order to put the kibosh on all that annoying barking, we first need to understand why our furry companion is barking to begin with.

Read More About Why Does My Dog Bark in the Car?

Tips for Hiking with Your Dog

Tips for Hiking with Your Dog

Hiking combines all of your pup’s first loves: sniffing, exploring, and spending time with his favorite person in the world—you. You won’t find a more enthusiastic hiking companion anywhere.

Read More About Tips for Hiking with Your Dog