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Pima Canyon Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,034 Google reviews · Running trail in Phoenix, Arizona · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Pima Canyon Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
There is a trail running up this canyon that rises from 880m above sea level to 1940m in elevation.
What runners say about Pima Canyon Trailhead
“We were surrounded by nature’s stunning artwork, and with every turn of the trail, we discovered new perspectives that took our breath away.”
“It’s close to the city, easy to navigate, full of desert scenery and even has restrooms and free parking.”
We embarked on an exhilarating hike down Pima Canyon, a hidden gem nestled in nature’s embrace. From the very beginning, the adventure was filled with anticipation as we meandered through the lush landscape. The weather was absolutely perfect, crisp and invigorating, so delightful that we hardly broke a sweat.
This is a good trail...the first mile straight off is flat,but if you go up the hill to the right you can follow the ridge like up the mountain. There are a lot of different trails that all connect in the canyon at one point or another,when I hiked this yesterday I hiked all the way up to the natural tunnel,there…
One of the most beautiful views so close to home. This hike I was say is moderate. Not handicap accessible. There is a lot of climbing up and down. Make sure you are wearing the appropriate shoes and bring water. As a precaution I did see a lot of Coyotes but they were from a distance but near the houses.
Good hike on well marked trails. Bring water as there is very little shade. Early morning is recommended. Very nice views and super close and convenient to the Tempe area. You don't need to drive 30 minutes outside of town to get the Arizona desert experience.
Trail conditions & character
“Obviously a community favorite and one of mine as well, great views of Phoenix and surrounding areas and the hieroglyphics are fascinating.”
“As we made our way back, we were pleasantly surprised by the clean restrooms available at the trailhead, a welcome sight after such an adventurous day!”
“As we made our way back, we were pleasantly surprised by the clean restrooms available at the trailhead, a welcome sight after such an adventurous day!”
“Came from out of town, was a nice loop that has many offshoots to choose while on the trail , amazing views of the area from atop the hill”
“My dog Zoe and I love hiking this trail, the Phoenix Park and Rec always do a real good job grooming the trail and keeping it safe for everybody.”
“the first mile straight off is flat,but if you go up the hill to the right you can follow the ridge like up the mountain.”
“Lost in conversation, we chanced upon ancient petroglyphs etched into the canyon walls, markers of a time long past.”
“Came from out of town, was a nice loop that has many offshoots to choose while on the trail , amazing views of the area from atop the hill”
Plan your run at Pima Canyon Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitephoenix.gov
- Phone(602) 262-7393
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Tuesday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Thursday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Friday | 5 AM–11 PM |
| Saturday | 5 AM–11 PM |
| Sunday | 5 AM–11 PM |
Running trails near Phoenix
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Ridgeline Trail
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