A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Rio Verde, 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.

Tom's Thumb

Classic Hike Route

Tom's Thumb

Birding
strenuous
4 mi
+1,302 ft
Superstition Ridgeline

Classic Hike Route

Superstition Ridgeline

Geologically Significant
strenuous
11.16 mi
+5,273 ft
North Mountain Loop

Classic Hike Route

North Mountain Loop

Family Friendly
moderate
1.71 mi
+683 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.

Scenic Trail

Hike Route

Scenic Trail

Views
easy
4.37 mi
+350 ft
Tom's Thumb

Classic Hike Route

Tom's Thumb

Birding
strenuous
4 mi
+1,302 ft
Sunrise Peak

Hike Route

Sunrise Peak

Views
easy
1.85 mi
+1,133 ft
Gateway Loop Trail

Hike Route

Gateway Loop Trail

Birding
moderate
4.39 mi
+695 ft
Pinnacle Peak

Hike Route

Pinnacle Peak

Views
easy
1.94 mi
+441 ft
Bajada Nature Trail

Hike Route

Bajada Nature Trail

Wildflowers
easy
0.79 mi
+44 ft
Logo

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.

Tom's Thumb from Gateway

Hike Route

Tom's Thumb from Gateway

Birding
strenuous
11.49 mi
+2,418 ft
Windgate to Bell Pass Loop

Hike Route

Windgate to Bell Pass Loop

Birding
strenuous
10.22 mi
+2,071 ft
Arizona Trail Passage 22: Saddle Mountain

Hike Route

Arizona Trail Passage 22: Saddle Mountain

extreme
16.2 mi
+4,222 ft
Arizona Trail Passage 21: Pine Mountain

Hike Route

Arizona Trail Passage 21: Pine Mountain

Views
extreme
19.18 mi
+2,234 ft
Ram Valley / Boulder Creek Loop

Hike Route

Ram Valley / Boulder Creek Loop

Views
extreme
14.6 mi
+2,333 ft
Bull Basin Loop

Hike Route

Bull Basin Loop

Views
extreme
37.54 mi
+8,836 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.

Coyote Canyon Loop

Hike Route

Coyote Canyon Loop

Views
moderate
5.8 mi
+261 ft
Granite Mountain Loop

Hike Route

Granite Mountain Loop

Views
moderate
5.86 mi
+431 ft
Palo Verde Trail

Hike Route

Palo Verde Trail

Birding
moderate
9.89 mi
+1,623 ft
Brown's Ranch

Hike Route

Brown's Ranch

Birding
moderate
9.7 mi
+465 ft
Sunrise to Andrews Kinsey Out-and-Back

Hike Route

Sunrise to Andrews Kinsey Out-and-Back

Views
strenuous
9.03 mi
+2,523 ft
Sunrise Peak

Hike Route

Sunrise Peak

Views
strenuous
5.93 mi
+1,338 ft