Mount Desert trails

The Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument offers hikers a journey through high-walled canyons, verdant creekside vegetation, and historical artifacts. Along the path, one can observe ancient Fremont granaries and pictographs, as well as beaver dams and desert varnish on…

Distance: 5.9 mi • Elevation gain: 443 m • Maximum elevation: 1,737 m

The Window Trail in Big Bend National Park offers hikers a diverse journey through varied terrains, including desert landscapes, forested areas, and rocky paths. The trail culminates at a distinctive rock formation known as "The Window," providing expansive views of the Chihuahuan Desert below and distant…

Distance: 5.5 mi • Elevation gain: 287 m • Maximum elevation: 1,641 m

The Cathedral Rock Trail via Baldwin and Templeton Trails offers a peaceful and scenic approach to one of Sedona’s most iconic landmarks. Hikers follow a path lined with red rock formations, pinyon pines, and junipers, with occasional views of Oak Creek's lush greenery adding contrast to the desert…

Distance: 3.8 mi • Elevation gain: 275 m • Maximum elevation: 1,439 m

The Sunrise Trail offers a scenic desert hike with sweeping views of the McDowell Mountains, Superstition Mountains, Four Peaks, and the Phoenix metropolitan area. The trail begins with a steady incline through classic Sonoran Desert terrain, where hikers can observe iconic saguaro cacti, unique rock…

Distance: 3.7 mi • Elevation gain: 355 m • Maximum elevation: 921 m

The Boynton Vista Trail in Sedona, Arizona, offers a memorable hiking experience characterized by striking red rock formations and serene desert vistas. Along the way, hikers can admire unique sandstone spires such as the Kachina Woman and Warrior Rock, landmarks steeped in natural beauty and cultural…

Distance: 1.4 mi • Elevation gain: 58 m • Maximum elevation: 1,425 m

The hike to San Jacinto Peak is a stunning journey through diverse landscapes, starting with a steep ascent that transitions into tranquil alpine meadows. As you make your way through Round Valley and past Wellman Divide, the trail gradually opens to reveal expansive views of the Coachella Valley and…

Distance: 10.5 mi • Elevation gain: 785 m • Maximum elevation: 3,280 m

The Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail offers a moderate hike through the striking desert landscape, showcasing vivid rock formations and native vegetation. As you trek through the canyon, you’ll encounter culturally significant rock art and be treated to a spectacular view of Tahquitz Falls, which cascades over the…

Distance: 1.7 mi • Elevation gain: 119 m • Maximum elevation: 279 m

The Painted Canyon and Ladder Canyon Trail Loop offers a dynamic mix of adventure and scenery, from colorful rock walls to narrow slot canyons. The trail's iconic ladders allow hikers to navigate through steep sections, adding a touch of excitement as they climb through twisting pathways. At higher points,…

Distance: 4.7 mi • Elevation gain: 323 m • Maximum elevation: 408 m

The Ryan Mountain Trail offers an exhilarating climb with dramatic, sweeping views across the Mojave Desert. As hikers ascend, they are greeted by striking rock formations, including ancient granite boulders, and the iconic Joshua trees scattered throughout the park’s vast landscape. From the summit, the…

Distance: 2.9 mi • Elevation gain: 323 m • Maximum elevation: 1,660 m

The Echo Canyon Trail on Camelback Mountain offers a rigorous and exhilarating hike, known for its steep ascents and rocky terrain. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with expansive views of Phoenix's skyline, surrounded by rugged desert canyons and scattered saguaro cacti. As you climb, the scenery shifts,…

Distance: 2.7 mi • Elevation gain: 426 m • Maximum elevation: 797 m

The combination of the Slot Canyon Trail and Cave Loop Trail offers a captivating hike through some of New Mexico's most distinctive landscapes. The Slot Canyon Trail takes you through narrow, winding corridors of rock, where towering walls of smooth tuff reveal the sculptural beauty of hoodoos and the…

Distance: 3.4 mi • Elevation gain: 303 m • Maximum elevation: 1,931 m

The Flatiron via Siphon Draw Trail offers a challenging and rewarding hiking experience within the stunning Superstition Mountains of Tonto National Forest. The route begins with a rocky ascent through exposed terrain, gradually drawing you closer to the dramatic Flatiron peak, which stands out like the bow of…

Distance: 5.7 mi • Elevation gain: 835 m • Maximum elevation: 1,424 m

Hiking Mount Islip offers a well-rounded experience in the San Gabriel Mountains. Along the route, you'll encounter diverse landscapes, including dense forests, scenic ridgelines, and expansive views stretching from the Mojave Desert to the surrounding San Gabriel Canyon, with glimpses of the rugged ridges and…

Distance: 5.5 mi • Elevation gain: 743 m • Maximum elevation: 2,506 m

The Lost Mine Trail in Big Bend National Park offers an exceptional hiking experience, blending moderate challenge with spectacular rewards. As you ascend through scrubby desert landscapes and switchbacks, you'll gradually gain sweeping views of the Juniper Valley and distant peaks like Casa Grande, providing…

Distance: 4.6 mi • Elevation gain: 344 m • Maximum elevation: 2,077 m

The Upper Captain Ahab Loop Trail offers an exhilarating hike, featuring stunning desert landscapes and rugged terrain. As you traverse the winding path, you'll be treated to sweeping views of the Moab valley, the La Sal Mountains in the distance, and the Colorado River below. The trail is a technical…

Distance: 8.6 mi • Elevation gain: 537 m • Maximum elevation: 1,494 m

This loop offers an excellent combination of rugged desert beauty and rewarding vistas. As you ascend the Peralta Canyon Trail, the trail weaves through a vibrant Sonoran Desert landscape, featuring towering saguaro cacti and jagged rock pinnacles. Once reaching Fremont Saddle, hikers are treated to a…

Distance: 5.4 mi • Elevation gain: 499 m • Maximum elevation: 1,162 m

Hiking to Saddleback offers a rugged adventure amidst the stunning desert landscape of Tucson, Arizona. Along the route, hikers are treated to expansive views of Sabino Canyon and Bear Canyon, with striking features like towering saguaro cacti, prickly pear, and diverse birdlife. The challenging ascents…

Distance: 5.6 mi • Elevation gain: 578 m • Maximum elevation: 1,334 m

The Cholla Trail to the summit of Camelback Mountain offers a captivating yet demanding hiking experience, with diverse terrain ranging from gentle slopes to challenging rock scrambles as you approach the peak. The trail provides stunning views of the Phoenix cityscape and surrounding desert landscapes,…

Distance: 1.4 mi • Elevation gain: 360 m • Maximum elevation: 792 m

The Piestewa Peak Summit Trail offers hikers a challenging and rewarding journey to one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Phoenix area. As you ascend, you’ll encounter a mix of steep rock steps, narrow stairways, and a few scrambles, making the hike both physically demanding and invigorating. At the…

Distance: 2.4 mi • Elevation gain: 324 m • Maximum elevation: 758 m

The hike to Mount Baden-Powell offers an impressive ascent through diverse landscapes. Along the way, hikers are treated to expansive views of the high desert to the north and the southern San Gabriels, as well as the picturesque ridgelines leading to the summit. Notable features of the hike include the…

Distance: 3.8 mi • Elevation gain: 857 m • Maximum elevation: 2,854 m

The Alkali Flat Trail is a captivating experience, immersing you in a surreal landscape of shimmering white dunes and undulating terrain. As you traverse this five-mile path, you'll be greeted by stunning views of the San Andres Mountains in the distance and the intriguing dry lake bed that the dunes cover.…

Distance: 4.6 mi • Elevation gain: 34 m • Maximum elevation: 1,214 m

The Cadillac South Ridge Trail offers a captivating journey to the summit of Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park, with a diverse landscape that transitions from lush forests to exposed granite ridges. Hikers can enjoy spectacular views of the Gulf of Maine and nearby islands, especially as they ascend…

Distance: 7.1 mi • Elevation gain: 444 m • Maximum elevation: 459 m

The Jordan Pond Loop and South Bubble hike offers a scenic blend of serene lakeside walking and more adventurous climbs. The loop around Jordan Pond is an easy, family-friendly route, showcasing beautiful views of the pond and surrounding mountains, including the iconic North and South Bubbles. For those…

Distance: 4.8 mi • Elevation gain: 230 m • Maximum elevation: 221 m

The Ocean Path Trail offers a scenic journey along the rugged coastline of Mount Desert Island. Starting from Sand Beach, the path leads hikers past notable landmarks such as Thunder Hole, known for its impressive wave sounds, and culminates at the striking Otter Cliffs. The trail features diverse terrain,…

Distance: 4.0 mi • Elevation gain: 140 m • Maximum elevation: 32 m

The Jordan Pond Loop in Acadia National Park offers a scenic and leisurely hike around the tranquil waters of Jordan Pond, surrounded by the impressive Bubbles Mountains. The trail features a mix of well-groomed gravel paths, rocky sections, and boardwalks that traverse wetlands, making it accessible for…

Distance: 3.4 mi • Elevation gain: 82 m • Maximum elevation: 96 m

The Railroad Tunnel Trail offers a unique blend of history and stunning scenery. As you walk along this well-maintained path, you'll traverse five tunnels that were once part of the railroad used for the dam's construction, all while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Mead and the surrounding desert landscape.…

Distance: 9.1 mi • Elevation gain: 495 m • Maximum elevation: 521 m

The Dripping Springs Trail offers a delightful journey through stunning desert landscapes and fascinating historical remnants. Along the route, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the jagged Organ Mountains and a variety of blooming wildflowers, especially in spring, adding vibrant colors to the…

Distance: 2.9 mi • Elevation gain: 153 m • Maximum elevation: 1,877 m

The La Luz Trail is a breathtaking journey that transforms from high desert landscapes to lush pine forests as you ascend toward Sandia Peak. Hikers are treated to stunning panoramic views of Albuquerque and the surrounding mountains, especially near the scenic overlook, where wildflowers add a splash of color…

Distance: 15.4 mi • Elevation gain: 1,432 m • Maximum elevation: 3,139 m

The Window Trail is a delightful adventure that offers breathtaking views of the Chihuahuan Desert! As you descend through stunning rock formations and lush desert flora, the excitement builds until you reach the iconic Window Viewpoint, where the landscape opens up to magnificent vistas. The hike is a…

Distance: 5.8 mi • Elevation gain: 306 m • Maximum elevation: 1,645 m

Embarking on the Guadalupe Peak Trail promises a thrilling adventure for seasoned hikers. The journey begins with a challenging ascent marked by steep switchbacks, gradually revealing sweeping views of the rugged desert landscape and diverse mountain ecosystems. It's a trail that combines physical exertion…

Distance: 8.3 mi • Elevation gain: 1,042 m • Maximum elevation: 2,651 m

Devil's Bridge Trail offers a scenic desert hike through the iconic red rocks of Sedona. The route is fairly easy until the last section, where a short but steep climb adds a bit of a challenge before reaching the impressive natural arch. The payoff at the top, with expansive views and the chance to stand on…

Distance: 4.0 mi • Elevation gain: 163 m • Maximum elevation: 1,521 m

Summit Trail to Piestewa Peak offers a challenging yet rewarding climb with fantastic views of the Sonoran Desert and the surrounding cityscape. The well-marked path makes it easy to navigate, and the occasional shaded spots provide a welcome break from the sun as you make your way to the summit. #Hiking…

Distance: 2.2 mi • Elevation gain: 318 m • Maximum elevation: 758 m

Hike from the Dante's View to the Mount Perry along Dante's Ridge in the Death Valley National Park. #Hiking #Mountain #Nature #Desert #Park

Distance: 4.5 mi • Elevation gain: 380 m • Maximum elevation: 1,745 m

Hike to the Horseshoe Bend Viewpoint above the Colorado River in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. #Hiking #Canyon #Mountain #Nature #River #Desert

Distance: 0.6 mi • Elevation gain: 0 m • Maximum elevation: 1,319 m

Hike on the California Riding and Hiking Trail (CRHT) through the Joshua Tree National Park. #Hiking #Nature #Desert #Park #Mountain #CRHT

Distance: 36.4 mi • Elevation gain: 943 m • Maximum elevation: 1,578 m

Hike through the Grapevine Canyon in the Bridge Canyon Wilderness. #Hiking #Canyon #Mountain #Nature #Desert #Wilderness

Distance: 1.7 mi • Elevation gain: 152 m • Maximum elevation: 857 m

Hike on the Tims Ladder Trail in the Joshua Tree National Park. #Hiking #Mountain #Park #Nature #Desert

Distance: 2.5 mi • Elevation gain: 621 m • Maximum elevation: 945 m

Hike from South Kaibab Trailhead to Bright Angel Trailhead via Ooh Aah Point, Cedar Ridge, Skeleton Point, Kaibab Suspension Bridge, River Colorado, Phantom Ranch Village, Bright Angel Suspension Bridge, River Trail, Devil's Corkscrew, Havasupai Gardens and Mary Jane Coulter Lookout in the Grand Canyon…

Distance: 16.9 mi • Elevation gain: 2,243 m • Maximum elevation: 2,201 m

Loop hike to Painted Canyon and Ladder Canyon in the Mecca Hills Wilderness. #Hiking #Loop #Canyon #Nature #Desert #Wilderness #Mountain

Distance: 4.4 mi • Elevation gain: 326 m • Maximum elevation: 408 m

Loop hike through Ladder Canyon and Painted Canyon in the Mecca Hills Wilderness. #Hiking #Loop #Canyon #Mountain #Nature #Wilderness #Desert

Distance: 4.6 mi • Elevation gain: 327 m • Maximum elevation: 407 m

Loop hike from Mountain Palm Springs Trailhead via Pygmy Grove, Southwest Grove, Surprise Canyon Grove, Palm Bowl Grove, Indian Valley and North Grove in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Wilderness. #Hiking #Loop #Nature #Mountain #Wilderness

Distance: 3.8 mi • Elevation gain: 193 m • Maximum elevation: 363 m

Loop hike to Red Cathedral and Zabriskie Point via the Golden Canyon Trail, the Gower Gulch Trail and Badlands Loop in the Death Valley National Park. #Hiking #Loop #Mountain #Nature #Desert #Park

Distance: 7.2 mi • Elevation gain: 417 m • Maximum elevation: 205 m

Loop hike to Chaparrosa Peak via Indian Springs Trail and Pipes Canyon Trail in the Pioneertown Mountains Preserve. #Hiking #Loop #Mountain #Nature #Desert #Canyon #River

Distance: 7.6 mi • Elevation gain: 446 m • Maximum elevation: 1,687 m

Hike to Red Mountain in the Mojave Desert. #Hiking #Mountain #Nature #Desert

Distance: 2.6 mi • Elevation gain: 532 m • Maximum elevation: 1,598 m

Hike from Palm Springs to Murray Hill in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. #Hiking #Mountain #Nature #Desert

Distance: 3.7 mi • Elevation gain: 506 m • Maximum elevation: 662 m

Hike from Palm Springs on Araby Trail in Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Monument. #Hiking #Nature #Mountains #Desert

Distance: 1.6 mi • Elevation gain: 306 m • Maximum elevation: 402 m

Loop hike from Palm Desert on the Bump and Grind Trail in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. #Hiking #Loop #Mountain #Desert #Nature

Distance: 4.0 mi • Elevation gain: 396 m • Maximum elevation: 391 m

Hike to Lost Horse Mine in the Joshua Tree National Park. #Hiking #Mountain #Nature #Desert #Park

Distance: 3.4 mi • Elevation gain: 138 m • Maximum elevation: 1,569 m

Loop hike to Cadillac Mountain via Cadillac North Ridge Trail, Great Pond Hill and Gorge Path in the Acadia National Park. #Hiking #Loop #Mountain #Island #Forest #Park #Lake

Distance: 4.9 mi • Elevation gain: 395 m • Maximum elevation: 455 m

Loop hike from Sand Beach to Gorham Mountain and The Beehive via Bowl Trail, Beehive Trail, The Bowl, Gorham Mountain Trail, Cadillac Cliffs Path, Monument Cove, Thunder Hole and Ocean Path in the Acadia National Park. #Hiking #Loop #Mountain #Nature #Forest #Park #Ocean #Atlantic #Sea, #Lake #Island

Distance: 4.0 mi • Elevation gain: 265 m • Maximum elevation: 150 m

Loop hike around Jordan Pond and to The Bubble via Jordan Pond Path and Bubbles Trail in the Acadia National Park on the Mount Desert Island. #Hiking #Loop #Lake #Nature #Forest #Mountain #Park

Distance: 3.6 mi • Elevation gain: 209 m • Maximum elevation: 221 m

Loop hike in the Arches National Park via Devil's Garden Trail, Landscape Arch Viewpoint, Navajo Arch Trail, Partition Arch Trail, Black Arch Overlook, Double O Arch Trail, Private Arch Trail, Pine Tree Arch Trail and Pine Tree Arch Viewpoint. #Hiking #Loop #Nature #Rock #Park #Mountain #Overlook #Desert

Distance: 6.4 mi • Elevation gain: 308 m • Maximum elevation: 1,678 m

Mountain Bike in Sonoran Desert National Monument and North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness from West Butterfield Road Parking. #MTB #Desert #Nature

Distance: 9.5 mi • Elevation gain: 122 m • Maximum elevation: 471 m

Hike to the Turtlehead Peak via the Calico Tanks Trail and the Turtlehead Peak Trail in the La Madre Mountain Wilderness and the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. #Hiking #Mountain #Nature #Desert #Wilderness #Canyon

Distance: 2.4 mi • Elevation gain: 577 m • Maximum elevation: 1,896 m

Hike to the Calico Tanks in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. #Hiking #Mountain #Nature #Canyon #Desert

Distance: 1.1 mi • Elevation gain: 134 m • Maximum elevation: 1,448 m

Hike on the Art Smith Trail in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. #Hiking #Desert #Nature #Mountains

Distance: 8.0 mi • Elevation gain: 707 m • Maximum elevation: 752 m

Hike from Cove Oasis to Bear Creek Oasis via the Bear Creek Trail in the Santa Rosa Wilderness. #Hiking #Oasis #Nature #Desert #Mountain #Wilderness

Distance: 4.4 mi • Elevation gain: 649 m • Maximum elevation: 702 m

Hike from Palm Springs on Museum Trail in Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. #Hiking #Mountain #Nature #Desert

Distance: 0.8 mi • Elevation gain: 260 m • Maximum elevation: 408 m

Hike from Palm Desert to The Cross in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. #Hiking #Mountain #Desert #Nature

Distance: 1.1 mi • Elevation gain: 207 m • Maximum elevation: 307 m

Hike to the Fortynine Palms Oasis (or 49 Palms Oasis) by the Fortynine Palms Trail in the Joshua Tree National Park. #Hiking #Nature #Desert #Mountain #Park #Forest

Distance: 1.5 mi • Elevation gain: 124 m • Maximum elevation: 938 m

Hike to Ryan Mountain on the Ryan Mountain Trail in Joshua Tree National Park. #Hiking #Mountain #Nature #Desert #Park

Distance: 1.4 mi • Elevation gain: 323 m • Maximum elevation: 1,660 m

Loop through McDowell Sonoran Preserve hike from Gateway Trailhead via Gateway Loop Trail. #Hiking #Loop #Nature #Mountain #Desert

Distance: 3.9 mi • Elevation gain: 231 m • Maximum elevation: 728 m

Hike through the Rockhouse Canyon to the Cottonwood Springs via Rockhouse Trail, Hidden Springs, in the Santa Rosa Wilderness and the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. #Hiking #Loop #Mountain #Canyon #Nature #Desert #Wilderness #Park

Distance: 13.4 mi • Elevation gain: 645 m • Maximum elevation: 956 m

Hike to Goat Canyon Trestle via Mortero Palms in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Wilderness. #Hiking #Canyon #Nature #Desert #Canyon #Mountain #Wilderness

Distance: 5.6 mi • Elevation gain: 620 m • Maximum elevation: 1,005 m

Loop hike from Lake Cahuilla Park to Cove Oasis via Boo Hoff Trail in the Santa Rosa Wilderness. #Hiking #Loop #Lake #Nature #Mountain #Wilderness #Desert

Distance: 10.8 mi • Elevation gain: 673 m • Maximum elevation: 577 m

Hike to the Fillmore Waterfall via the Fillmore Trail in the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. #Hiking #Fall #Nature #Mountain

Distance: 1.1 mi • Elevation gain: 151 m • Maximum elevation: 1,795 m

Loop hike to Norumbega Mountain via Goat Trail, Norumbega Mountain Trail, Hadlock Lower Dam, Hadlock Ponds Trail, Lower Hadlock Pond and Lower Norumbega Trail in the Acadia National Park on the Mount Desert Island. #Hiking #Loop #Mountain #Lake #Island #Park #Nature

Distance: 3.3 mi • Elevation gain: 234 m • Maximum elevation: 251 m

Loop hike from Eagle Lake to Hulls Cove via Breakneck Road, Breakneck Ponds, Hulls Cove Road, Paradise Hill Carriage Road, Witch Hole Pond, Witch Hole Pond Carriage Road and Duck Brook Falls in the Acadia National Park on the Mount Desert Island. #Hiking #Loop #Lake #Nature #Forest

Distance: 7.6 mi • Elevation gain: 184 m • Maximum elevation: 114 m

Loop hike to Mastodon Peak on the Mastodon Mine Loop Trail in the Joshua Tree National Park. #Hke #Loop #Mountain #Nature #Park #Desert

Distance: 2.4 mi • Elevation gain: 120 m • Maximum elevation: 1,025 m