The best running trails around Phoenix

There are over 200 running routes around Phoenix listed on komoot, offering a wide variety of terrains and distances for all fitness levels. This includes 29 easy routes, 132 moderate routes, and 51 difficult routes.

The running routes in Phoenix are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 20 reviews. Runners often praise the unique Sonoran Desert vistas, the diverse terrain, and the well-maintained paths through mountain preserves and parks.

Yes, Phoenix offers several easy jogging routes. For example, the Papago Park 5k Fitness Trail is a popular choice, offering well-maintained paths through unique red sandstone buttes. There are 29 easy routes in total to explore.

Absolutely! Many routes in Phoenix are designed as loops, perfect for a continuous run. The Shaw Butte and Charles M. Christiansen Trail Loop is a great example, offering a 5-mile (8 km) run through mountain preserves. Another option is the Mormon Trail and Hidden Valley Loop, which is a more challenging 6.25 km loop.

Phoenix's running routes often pass by unique natural features. In Papago Park, you can see the Red Rock Formations and the famous Hole-in-the-Rock. South Mountain Park features Fat Man's Pass and the Hidden Valley Tunnel. For urban scenery, the trails around Tempe Town Lake offer views of the lake and city skyline.

For family-friendly options, consider the extensive canal paths and greenbelts, which offer flatter, paved, or crushed gravel surfaces. Papago Park also has well-maintained, relatively flat trails suitable for a leisurely run or walk with a stroller, though specific stroller accessibility should always be checked on individual route pages.

Phoenix offers year-round sunshine, making it attractive for runners. However, the cooler months from November to April are ideal. During the extremely hot summer months (May through October), when temperatures can exceed 110°F, it's highly recommended to run early in the morning or late in the evening, and always prioritize ample hydration and sun protection.

Many of Phoenix's outdoor trails and parks are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Mountain preserves like South Mountain Park and the Phoenix Sonoran Preserve generally welcome leashed dogs. Always check specific park regulations or route details before heading out with your canine companion.

For a challenging run, consider the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail 300, which offers a rewarding ascent with sweeping city views. Another difficult option is the Mormon Trail and Hidden Valley Loop, featuring over 260 meters of elevation gain over 6.25 km.

Yes, for longer runs, the Desert Classic and National Trail Loop in South Mountain Park offers an extensive 27 km (16.8 miles) route with significant elevation changes. Additionally, the Arizona Canal Path provides over 68 miles of multi-use path for extended runs.

Many popular running areas in Phoenix, such as Papago Park, South Mountain Park, and Piestewa Peak, offer designated parking lots near trailheads. For routes along canal paths or greenbelts, parking can often be found at adjacent parks or public access points. It's always advisable to check the specific route details for parking information.