A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Cactus Forest, Arizona

Regional Classics Icon

Regional Classics

Discover the must-do hikes in the area, handpicked and curated by local experts who know the trails best. These routes are beloved for good reason, offering standout scenery, rewarding terrain, and detailed descriptions with tips that tell you exactly what to expect. Whether you are visiting for the first time or are a local doing them on repeat, they offer a reliable and memorable hiking experience.

Superstition Ridgeline

Classic Hike Route

Superstition Ridgeline

Geologically Significant
strenuous
11.16 mi
+5,273 ft
Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Park Road

Hike Route

Park Road

moderate
4.26 mi
+306 ft
Memorial Loop

Hike Route

Memorial Loop

easy
0.09 mi
+0 ft
Calloway

Hike Route

Calloway

Views
easy
1.08 mi
+333 ft
Childrens Cave

Hike Route

Childrens Cave

easy
0.33 mi
+80 ft
Sunset Vista Trail

Hike Route

Sunset Vista Trail

Views
moderate
2.49 mi
+157 ft
San Tan Mountains Loop (Goldmine-Dynamite Loop)

Hike Route

San Tan Mountains Loop (Goldmine-Dynamite Loop)

Birding
moderate
4.52 mi
+952 ft
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Adventurous Routes

These routes go beyond 10 miles and are built for days when you want to cover more ground and push a little deeper. Expect longer distances, more effort, and bigger payoffs — whether that’s remote terrain, summit views, or a full-day challenge. Ideal for hikers looking to go farther and stay out longer.

Arizona Trail Passage 16: Gila River Canyons

Hike Route

Arizona Trail Passage 16: Gila River Canyons

Views
extreme
26.35 mi
+5,183 ft
Arizona Trail Passage 17: Alamo Canyon

Hike Route

Arizona Trail Passage 17: Alamo Canyon

Views
extreme
11.71 mi
+1,438 ft
Arizona Trail Passage 15: Tortilla Mountains

Hike Route

Arizona Trail Passage 15: Tortilla Mountains

Views
extreme
28.47 mi
+1,943 ft
Ripsey Wash Loop

Hike Route

Ripsey Wash Loop

Views
extreme
19.41 mi
+3,293 ft
Picketpost Loop

Hike Route

Picketpost Loop

Views
extreme
14.38 mi
+2,016 ft
Reavis Canyon / Happy Camp Loop

Hike Route

Reavis Canyon / Happy Camp Loop

Views
extreme
34 mi
+5,036 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

Picacho Peak Sunset Loop

Hike Route

Picacho Peak Sunset Loop

Views
strenuous
6.55 mi
+2,419 ft
Picacho Peak via Sunset Vista

Hike Route

Picacho Peak via Sunset Vista

Birding
strenuous
5.64 mi
+1,893 ft
Miners Needle Loop

Hike Route

Miners Needle Loop

Birding
moderate
8.92 mi
+1,809 ft