Best Running Trails In Arizona - Madaboutrun
Best Running Trails In Arizona

Best Running Trails In Arizona

Are you looking for some great trails In Arizona? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top running trails in Arizona.

Arizona has plenty of beautiful scenery, from mountains to deserts to lakes. And now, thanks to trail runners, these scenic areas are even better places to run.

Best Running Trails In Arizona

Running trails are perfect for beginners because they offer low-impact exercise without the risk of injury. They also provide a great way to get outside and enjoy nature.

The state offers dozens of miles of trails, ranging from beginner to expert terrain. But which are the best trails?

It can be hard to find the best one that suits your ability and is easy to get to. No matter how much you search, you just can’t find the answers that you need.

Frustrated and disappointed, you resign yourself to a life without the best running trails in Arizona.

Well, no more! Today we are here with the answers you need.

Keep reading to find the best running trails in Arizona and plenty of helpful information and tips to get everyone trail running, from beginners to experts.

What Is A Trail?

A trail is an unpaved path that runs through a natural environment like a forest or desert. It may be used by hikers, bikers, horseback riders, or dog walkers.

Most trails have signs indicating their usage.

Trails can vary greatly in difficulty. Some are flat and easy while others require more effort.

Many trails are well maintained and safe, others are not and will require you to use some sense to work out how to be safe when running.

As with all things when it comes to the great outdoors – keep an open mind and focus most of all on your safety!

The Best Trails In Arizona

Now let’s consider the best trails in Arizona. Below is a complete list of some of the best trails we could find.

It’s worth noting before we begin that these trails will vary in difficulty, so it’s very important to make sure you only pick one that you are prepared to run.

We’ll put an estimate of the length of each trail so that you can judge this for yourself!

Pima Canyon Trail (Pima National Forest)

First up is a 10-mile loop located near Tucson, AZ. This trail provides views of the Santa Catalina Mountains, which is sure to give you some inspiration as you work up a sweat!

Coconino Rim Trail (Coconino National Forest)

This 12-mile loop takes you past the Grand Wash Cliffs and up onto the Coconino Plateau.

There are many different types of plants and animals along the trail, including deer, rabbits, lizards, snakes, and birds, so it’s always an interesting place to run, and you’re likely to find something that will amaze you – alongside the gorgeous views of the Grand Wash Cliffs.

San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area (San Pedro River)

Located just south of Phoenix, this 5-mile loop follows the San Pedro River. Along the way, there are multiple viewpoints of the river and its surroundings.

There are also picnic tables available if you want to take a break, or to have a quick restorative snack once you’re done.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park (Tonto Natural Bridge)

This 4-mile loop is located in Tuba City, AZ. This park features a natural bridge and a stream.

If you’d prefer to avoid crowds, this is a good option as there will likely be nobody else around, particularly if you go in the early morning or late evening.

Desert View Drive Trail (Desert View Drive)

This 3-mile loop is located in Scottsdale, AZ. This trail passes through the Sonoran Desert and includes a view of Camelback Mountain. There are restrooms at the end of the trail.

Hogback Butte Trail (Mesa Verde National Monument)

This 6-mile loop is located in Cortez, CO. This trail takes you past ancient cliff dwellings and mesa tops. There are numerous water sources along the route.

Saguaro Lake Trail

This 7-mile loop is located in Sahuarita, AZ. This trail is part of the Saguaro Lake Recreation Area. The lake itself offers swimming opportunities, fishing, boating, and other activities.

Saguaro National Park (Saguaro National Park)

This 6-mile loop is located in Tucson, AZ. This park contains Saguaros, which are large cacti.

There are also hiking and biking trails within the park, if you want to do something else other than run.

This would be a good location to begin by running and finish with a short hike once you’re too spent to keep going!

Mesa Verde National Park (Mesa Verde)

This 7-mile loop is located near Cortez, CO. This trail is part of Mesa Verde National Park.

There are ruins of ancient dwellings and cliff dwellings throughout the area, which make running around it informative as well as good for your body!

Horsethief Lake Trail (Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area)

This 8-mile loop is located in Flagstaff, AZ. Horseshoe Lake is a popular place for fishing and boating.

The trail passes through forests, meadows, and prairies and will give you a lot of cool nature to look at as you’re running and achieving your goals.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are plenty of fantastic running trails across Arizona that will take you through some of the best nature that the state has to offer.

Arizona is a big state, and there are many different types of terrain and climate that you will be able to find.

It’s very important to pick a location that is suitable for your running level and style before you commit to somewhere, and also to make sure that it’s suitable for the weather of that day.

We hope that this article has given you some great ideas for the best running trails in Arizona.

There are many more that you’ll be able to find, as Arizona is an almost endless cradle of great running trails! Best of luck with any trails you will hit in the near future!

Below is a short FAQ that will answer some of the most common questions around this topic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get your last-minute questions answered here!

What Should I Wear When Running?

You should always dress appropriately when running outside. You don’t have to wear anything fancy, but you shouldn’t just wear shorts either.

Dress comfortably, so you can move freely while you’re out on the road.

Make sure you have proper running shoes – these will ensure that you will not damage your feet and that your knees and shins will get the proper protection you need.

What To Wear Running In Hot Weather?

If you find yourself running in the summer, you might be wondering the same as many others: what to wear running in 60 degree weather? Well, let’s look at the answer below!

When it comes to heat, you need to be very careful with how you prepare. You don’t want to overheat, or else catch heat-stroke. When running in hot weather, you should always carry a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water bottle with you while running.

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