Best Hiking Areas in the US: Top Scottsdale Neighborhoods for Trail Access

Hiking in the United States offers an incredible range of landscapes, from alpine peaks to desert canyons. For anyone considering a move to a walkable, outdoor-oriented city, Scottsdale stands out as a home base near some of the nation's most celebrated trails. Arizona consistently earns high marks among hiking enthusiasts, and the city's neighborhoods are designed to make trail access a daily part of life. This article explores the best hiking areas in the US and explains why Scottsdale is a top choice for hikers looking to purchase a home.

The Top Hiking States in America

Personal travel blogs and hiking communities often rank states based on the number of national parks, trail miles, and unique natural features. According to one popular ranking from the blog Happy People Hike, the seven favorite states for hiking in the US are as follows:

• California – Home to nine National Parks, including Yosemite and Sequoia.
• Washington – Boasts 500 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail and dramatic mountain scenery.
• Colorado – Has 58 fourteeners (peaks over 14,000 feet), the most of any state.
• Arizona – Offers iconic canyon and desert trails with a long hiking season.
• Maine – Features the 100 Miles of Wilderness on the Appalachian Trail and Mount Katahdin.
• Idaho – Contains the Sawtooth Wilderness and 1% of Yellowstone National Park.
• Hawaii, Montana, Utah, and Michigan – Tie for seventh place, each with distinctive trail systems.

While Arizona ranks fourth on this list, its diversity of hiking environments makes it a standout for year-round exploration. The state's lower elevation trails are accessible in winter, while higher mountain routes offer summer respites.

Notable Trails Across the Country

Several individual hikes are frequently cited among the best in North America. The following list highlights some of the most well-known routes, as featured in personal hiking blogs such as Explores With Alec and Phil Armitage's site. Keep in mind that many of these trails require permits, and conditions change seasonally. Always check with the managing agency before heading out.

• Angels Landing (Zion National Park, Utah) – A 5-mile moderate hike that requires a permit.
• Half Dome (Yosemite National Park, California) – Accessible by permit only, offering a strenuous climb with cable sections.
• Cloud's Rest–Half Dome–Vernal Falls (Yosemite National Park) – A multi-day, 30-plus-mile backpacking route.
• Mt. Whitney (California) – The tallest peak in the Lower 48, a challenging day or overnight hike.
• Panorama Ridge (British Columbia, Canada) – An 18-mile difficult hike best done July through October. (While in Canada, it is frequently grouped with North American best hikes.)
• Slaughter Ridge (near Cooper Landing, Alaska) – A strenuous 4-mile hike.
• Delta Lake (Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming) – An 8-mile moderate to hard hike in grizzly country.
• Cascade Pass (Washington) – A classic hike in the North Cascades.
• Larch Valley (Banff National Park, Canada) – Another Canadian entry famous for golden larches in autumn.
• Rae Lakes (Kings Canyon National Park, California) – A segment of the John Muir Trail.
• Bright Angel Trail (Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona) – A famous day hike into the canyon.
• The Narrows (Zion National Park, Utah) – A top ten day hike according to Phil Armitage, involving wading through a slot canyon.
• Cirque of the Towers (Wind River Range, Wyoming) – A rugged backpacking destination.
• Highline Trail (Glacier National Park, Montana) – A premier trail with stunning alpine views.

Bright Angel Trail is a prime example of Arizona's contribution to the best hiking areas in the US. Its location in the Grand Canyon makes it a bucket-list destination for hikers worldwide.

Why Scottsdale Is a Prime Location for Hikers

Arizona's fourth-place ranking among hiking states reflects its wealth of trails, from the red rocks of Sedona to the saguaro-studded deserts near Tucson. Scottsdale, situated in the greater Phoenix area, offers an especially convenient base for accessing these natural wonders. The city's outskirts border the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which contains hundreds of miles of trails for all skill levels. While no specific neighborhood names are provided in the research, many Scottsdale communities are built directly adjacent to trailheads, making it easy to step out your door and onto a path.

When choosing a home in Scottsdale for hiking access, consider factors such as proximity to the preserve, quiet streets that connect to trail networks, and the availability of trailhead parking. Real estate agents familiar with the area can help identify properties that sit within walking distance of popular routes. Because Arizona's hiking season spans most of the year (with summer mornings still viable), living near trails can become a daily habit rather than a weekend excursion.

For out-of-state buyers who want to relocate to a city with strong outdoor credentials, Scottsdale combines a low-cost-of-living environment with immediate access to some of the best hiking areas in the US. Whether you prefer the challenge of Bright Angel Trail or a relaxed evening walk in the desert foothills, the right neighborhood can put all of that within reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best hiking trail in Arizona?

One of the most famous Arizona hikes is Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park, an 8-mile round trip (if you go only partway) that provides breathtaking views into the canyon. The trail requires a permit for overnight trips, and hikers should carry ample water. Many personal hiking blogs list it among the top day hikes in North America.

Is Scottsdale a good place for hiking?

Yes. Arizona is ranked the fourth best hiking state in the US by the blog Happy People Hike, and Scottsdale lies within easy reach of desert preserves and mountain trails. The city's mild winter climate allows for hiking nearly every month, and many neighborhoods are built near protected lands with well-maintained paths.

What should I consider when buying a home near hiking trails?

Look for neighborhoods that offer direct pedestrian access to trail systems, sufficient trailhead parking for weekend visitors, and a variety of trail difficulties to match your fitness level. Homes bordering open space or natural preserves often provide the most convenient access. A local real estate agent can guide you to communities that prioritize outdoor living.

Are permits required for popular Arizona hikes?

Yes. Trails in national parks generally require permits for overnight stays, and some day hikes may also have restrictions. For example, Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon requires a backcountry permit for overnight trips, while day hikers do not need a permit but should check current conditions. It is best to confirm requirements with the managing agency before your hike.

How does Arizona compare to other top hiking states?

Arizona lacks the number of fourteeners found in Colorado or the national park count of California, but it offers unique desert and canyon scenery that is unmatched elsewhere. The state's long hiking season and proximity to major metropolitan areas like Scottsdale make it a practical choice for people who want to hike regularly without traveling long distances.

No matter where you live, the best hiking areas in the US are those that match your personal preferences for difficulty, scenery, and accessibility. For those considering a move to Scottsdale, the city's natural surroundings and trail-connected neighborhoods make it a standout choice among hiking-friendly communities.