Phoenix Arizona Camelback Hikes and Desert Botanical Garden

Why visit Phoenix

Phoenix is one of the largest cities in the United States and the heart of the Valley of the Sun. Mountain preserves rise right inside the city limits, so you can hike among giant saguaros in the morning, spend the afternoon in a world class museum and watch a fiery desert sunset over dinner.

Desert gardens and hikes

Desert Botanical Garden

Set among the red rock buttes of Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Garden shows off cacti, agaves and wildflowers from deserts around the world along easy, shaded loop trails. Come early in the day or for the evening events when the paths are lit.

Camelback Mountain

The city's most famous hike climbs steeply to a summit with sweeping views across the valley. The Echo Canyon and Cholla trails are both demanding scrambles, so start at sunrise, carry plenty of water and turn back if the heat builds.

Hole in the Rock

For an easy outing, the short walk to Hole in the Rock in Papago Park leads to a natural window in the sandstone that frames the city. It is a favorite spot for sunset.

South Mountain Park and Preserve

One of the largest city parks in the country, South Mountain has miles of trails and a scenic drive up to Dobbins Lookout, where the whole valley spreads out below.

Museums and the arts

Heard Museum

The Heard Museum is one of the best places in the country to learn about the art and cultures of American Indian peoples of the Southwest, from pottery and jewelry to contemporary painting.

Musical Instrument Museum

In north Phoenix, the Musical Instrument Museum displays thousands of instruments from nearly every country, with headsets that play the music as you walk. Plan at least half a day.

Roosevelt Row

Downtown, the Roosevelt Row arts district is lined with colorful murals, galleries and small cafes. The monthly First Friday art walk fills the streets with music and food trucks.

Scottsdale and nearby

Old Town Scottsdale

Next door, Old Town Scottsdale mixes western style storefronts with art galleries, boutiques and some of the valley's best restaurants. Thursday evenings bring a popular art walk.

Taliesin West

Frank Lloyd Wright built Taliesin West as his winter home and studio in the desert foothills. Guided tours explain how he shaped the buildings around light, stone and landscape.

Food and local flavors

Phoenix eats with a strong Sonoran accent. Try a Sonoran hot dog wrapped in bacon and piled with beans and salsa, a crispy chimichanga, and fry bread topped with honey or savory toppings. Prickly pear shows up in lemonade, syrups and desserts, and the valley has a deep bench of Mexican kitchens, barbecue joints and farm to table restaurants.

Where to stay

Downtown Phoenix puts you close to museums, sports arenas and the light rail. Scottsdale is the choice for resorts, spas and nightlife, while Tempe, home to Arizona State University, is lively and close to the airport. Leafy Arcadia sits between them at the foot of Camelback Mountain.

Best time to visit

The best weather runs from November through April, with warm sunny days and cool evenings. Spring brings desert wildflowers and baseball spring training. Summer is extremely hot, often well above 100 degrees, and the monsoon from July to September can bring sudden storms and dust.

Getting there and getting around

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is close to downtown, and the free PHX Sky Train links the terminals to the Valley Metro light rail, which runs through downtown Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa. To reach trailheads, Scottsdale and day trips you will want a car.

A suggested itinerary

First day

Hike Camelback Mountain at sunrise, cool off at the Heard Museum and spend the evening on Roosevelt Row.

Second day

Explore the Desert Botanical Garden, walk to Hole in the Rock for sunset and head to Old Town Scottsdale for dinner.

Third day

Tour Taliesin West in the morning and finish at the Musical Instrument Museum.

Practical tips

• Carry more water than you think you need and hike early in the day.
• Some city trails close during extreme heat warnings, so check before you go.
• Wear sunscreen, a hat and closed shoes, and keep clear of cholla cactus.
• Trailhead parking fills early on cool weekend mornings.