8 Popular Trails in Arizona for an Easy Post-Thanksgiving Hike

Take a recreational hike along Arizona’s easy trails this Thanksgiving.

Dealing with a Thanksgiving food coma? Arizona’s got you covered with its scenic red rock views and charming desert sunsets.

The Grand Canyon State is famous for being a hiker’s paradise—you can venture into the woods and burn the calories from your Thanksgiving feast. To plan an outdoor adventure that doesn’t wear you out, Arizona does offer a few beginner-friendly hikes. 

Those seeking to immerse themselves in the state’s jaw-dropping landscapes and natural setting, swipe right for these eight easy trails. 

Desert Botanical Garden – Phoenix

Take a leisurely walk through the Desert Botanical Garden for an educational and scenic hiking experience. The garden offers interesting trails featuring native wildflower displays, historical exhibits, art installations, and holiday-themed events. Unique sightings to behold in this season include the Butterfly Pavillion, late-blooming desert plants, and the “Las Noches de las Luminarias”, which starts late November.

Pro tip: Come hungry, as you’ll want to enjoy the delicious food at the garden’s local restaurant: Gertrude’s.

Deadman’s Pass Trail – Sedona

Deadman’s Pass Trail, located in the heart of Sedona’s legendary red rock country, is a must-have on your hiking itinerary. This easy-to-moderate trail is a top pick for holiday hikers as it suits most fitness levels. The vibrant red rocks against the late November sky offer picturesque views. If birdwatching is your hobby, you may spot the American Robin and the Western Bluebird migrating to Arizona during this time of the year. 

Boynton Canyon Trail – Sedona

Boynton Canyon Trail offers everything you need for an easy post-Thanksgiving adventure. The hike offers a mix of sun and shade in the late November weather, constantly changing scenery along the 6.1-mile out-and-back trail, and mild wildlife activity, mostly consisting of birds and reptiles. A major seasonal highlight of the trail is the Boynton Cave and the ancient cliff dwellings, ensuring a serene hiking experience.  

Cholla Trail on Camelback Mountain – Phoenix

While Camelback is famous for its steep hikes, the Cholla Trail offers a gentler route compared to its other trail, Echo Canyon. At the summit, you’ll enjoy epic views of the surrounding Phoenix area. A rare sighting in this desert ecosystem would be the elusive Gila Monster, though not many hikers are lucky enough to witness one.

Phoenix Zoo Loop Trail – Papago Park

Stroll past the iconic red butte formations of Papago Park on this paved path, accessible to hikers of all ages. Late November weather is perfect for exploring the Sonoran desert environment. The trail’s proximity to the zoo offers glimpses of exotic species like javelinas and bobcats and provides distinctive views of the park’s fishing lagoons, making for a great holiday snapshot. 

Long Canyon Trail – Sedona

If you’re looking for a hike that evades the Thanksgiving frenzy, the Long Canyon Trail is just right. The trail follows an ephemeral streambed, supporting a rare riparian ecosystem with distinctive cypress trees and oak-dominated forests. You can also enjoy a peaceful morning hike to the Birthing Cave—it’s a slight detour for those who have the time.

Pinnacle Peak Trail – Scottsdale

Pinnacle Peak is an ideal hiking destination if you want to soak in stunning desert views of this granite summit and park. November offers softer light and clearer skies for photographing the stunning vistas of the distant Superstition Mountains. The moderate inclines make it easy for casual hikers to enjoy the captivating desert flora along well-marked pathways.

Hole-in-the-Rock Trail – Papago Park

If you have limited time for a Thanksgiving getaway, try the Hole-in-the-Rock trail, one of the simplest hikes in Arizona. The trail leads to a large, natural hole inside a red sandstone butte, an unusual rock formation for a desert landscape. Even in November, the trail has high foot traffic so it’s best to visit during a weekday for a more peaceful experience.