Best Hiking Areas in the US: A 2026 Guide for Families Considering Phoenix
When families begin looking at relocation options in the Phoenix area, one of the first questions is often about outdoor recreation. Hiking consistently ranks as a top activity for residents, and the United States offers an incredible variety of trails suitable for all ages. Whether you are planning weekend trips from your new home in Scottsdale or considering a longer vacation to explore other regions, understanding the best hiking areas in the US helps you make informed decisions. This guide draws on firsthand experiences from seasoned hikers who have covered trails from Alaska to Maine, providing a factual look at what makes each area special.
What Makes a Hiking Area Family Friendly
Family friendly hiking means different things to different households. Young children need shorter distances, gentle elevation changes, and plenty of water stops. Teenagers may enjoy moderate challenges with rewarding views. Safety is also a major consideration: permits, wildlife encounters, and weather conditions all play a role. The trails highlighted by experienced hikers vary widely in difficulty. For example, Angels Landing in Utah is a 5 mile moderate hike that requires a permit due to overcrowding. While it can be done with older kids, it demands a good level of fitness and confidence with heights. Delta Lake in Wyoming is an 8 mile moderate to hard hike in Grand Teton National Park, and bear spray is recommended there. For families with younger children, these trails may be too demanding, but the same regions offer easier alternatives that are not covered in the research used for this article. The key is matching the trail to your family's experience and stamina.
Top Hiking States According to Recent Rankings
One comprehensive ranking of hiking destinations places California at number one, followed by Washington, Colorado, Arizona, Maine, Idaho, and a tie for seventh place among Hawaii, Montana, Utah, and Michigan. Alaska was not included in this particular list due to bear concerns. The ranking considers factors such as national park acreage, mountain diversity, and trail variety. California boasts 9 national parks, 20.8 million acres of national forests, and landmarks like Mt. Whitney (the tallest peak in the contiguous US) and Badwater Basin. Colorado has 58 mountains over 14,000 feet, more than any other state. Arizona, ranked fourth, offers desert landscapes, canyon country, and cooler high elevation trails. For families moving to the Phoenix area, having a top ranked hiking state right at your doorstep is a significant advantage.
California: A Benchmark for Hiking Variety
California is widely considered a bucket list state for hikers. The Cloud's Rest Half Dome Vernal Falls route is a 30 plus mile multi day backpacking trip with about 10,000 feet of elevation gain. Shorter day hikes like the permit required Half Dome in Yosemite National Park are iconic but also demanding. Families who live in Arizona can easily fly to California for a long weekend, making it one of the most accessible best hiking areas in the US for Phoenix residents.
Colorado: Fourteener Country
With 58 peaks over 14,000 feet, Colorado offers unparalleled high altitude hiking. While many of these peaks are strenuous, the state also has countless family friendly trails in places like Rocky Mountain National Park. The research does not include specific easy Colorado trails, so families should consult local visitor centers for age appropriate routes. The sheer number of options makes Colorado a top destination for hikers of all levels.
Arizona: Desert and Mountain Hikes
Arizona's ranking as the fourth best hiking state reflects its diverse terrain. From the red rocks of Sedona to the alpine forests of the San Francisco Peaks, the state has something for every season. While the research pack does not list specific family friendly trails in the Phoenix area, many neighborhood parks and preserves in Scottsdale and North Phoenix offer short, shaded paths suitable for young children. Families moving to Arizona will find that the state's hiking culture is strong, with many local groups and guided options available.
Notable Trails Across the Country
The following trails are among the most frequently mentioned by hikers who have explored all 50 states. They represent a mix of difficulty levels and locations, giving families ideas for future trips beyond Arizona.
| Trail Name | State | Distance | Difficulty | Notable Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mt. Whitney | California | 22 miles | Very hard | Permit required |
| Slaughter Ridge | Alaska | 4 miles | Strenuous | Near Cooper Landing, Kenai Peninsula |
| Delta Lake | Wyoming | 8 miles | Moderate to hard | Bear spray recommended |
| Angels Landing | Utah | 5 miles | Moderate | Permit required |
| Half Dome | California | 14-16 miles round trip | Very hard | Permit required, iconic |
| Cloud's Rest Half Dome Vernal Falls | California | 30+ miles (backpack) | Very hard | Multi day, ~10,000 ft gain |
None of these trails are specifically recommended for young families, but they illustrate the spectrum of hiking opportunities across the US. For families living in the Phoenix area, the proximity to these iconic destinations is a benefit of choosing Arizona as a home base. Weekend trips to Utah or Colorado are feasible, and longer vacations to California or Wyoming can be planned during school breaks.
How Families Can Prepare for Hiking
Preparation is essential for any hike, especially when children are involved. The research pack highlights several practical considerations. Bear spray is recommended for trails in grizzly bear country, such as Delta Lake in Grand Teton National Park. Permits are required for popular trails like Angels Landing, Half Dome, and Mt. Whitney, and availability can be competitive. Slaughter Ridge in Alaska is a strenuous 4 mile hike, which means even short distances can be challenging in rugged terrain. Families should always check current conditions, carry plenty of water, and let someone know their itinerary. The best hiking areas in the US often have high traffic, so arriving early helps avoid crowds and parking issues.
Why Arizona Ranks Among the Best
Arizona's fourth place ranking by Happy People Hike places it ahead of states like Maine, Idaho, and Hawaii. The state's combination of desert lowlands and high country provides year round hiking opportunities. The research pack does not specify which Arizona trails were considered for this ranking, but the state is known for the Grand Canyon, the Superstition Mountains, and numerous state parks. For families relocating to the Phoenix area, this means that world class hiking is never far away. Whether you prefer a gentle urban path or a challenging canyon descent, Arizona delivers options that appeal to all skill levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which US state has the best hiking for families?
Based on the ranking used in this article, California is rated number one overall. However, no single state is universally best for families because needs vary. California offers many national parks and easier coastal trails, while Arizona provides warm weather hiking most of the year. Families should consider their own fitness and preferences when choosing a destination.
Do I need permits for family hikes?
Yes, many of the most famous trails require permits. Half Dome in Yosemite, Angels Landing in Zion, and Mt. Whitney all have permit systems. Families should research permit requirements well in advance. Less popular trails often do not require permits, making them easier to access for spontaneous outings.
What should I bring on a family hike in the US?
Always carry plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and a first aid kit. In areas with grizzly bears, such as Grand Teton National Park, bear spray is recommended. For high altitude trails like those in Colorado, allow time for acclimatization. Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out.
Are there easy hikes near Phoenix for families?
The research pack does not name specific easy trails in the Phoenix area, but Arizona is ranked fourth for hiking overall. Many neighborhood parks and preserves offer short, paved or well maintained paths. Families new to the area can consult local hiking groups or visitor centers for age appropriate recommendations.
How does Arizona compare to other top hiking states?
Arizona is ranked fourth behind California, Washington, and Colorado. It offers unique desert landscapes and cooler high elevation trails. While it lacks the number of fourteeners Colorado has, Arizona provides a longer hiking season due to mild winters. For families moving to Phoenix, the state's diversity makes it a strong choice for year round outdoor recreation.