The best running trails in Maricopa County

If you are looking for a moderate jogging route with a mix of urban and natural scenery, the Tempe Town Lake Loop is a great choice. This paved path takes you around the lake, offering tranquil water views on one side and the vibrant downtown Tempe skyline on the other. You will cover 5.4 miles (8.6 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 34 feet (10 metres), making it a comfortable run that typically takes around 53 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the paths are open daily from 5 AM to midnight. A significant advantage of this route is that it is well-lit at night, which can be particularly useful if you prefer to jog during the cooler evening hours in warmer months. You can easily access the loop from Tempe Beach Park, making it a convenient option for a quick workout.

Beyond the exercise, the Tempe Town Lake Loop offers more than 20 pieces of public art along the way, adding visual interest to your run. You can also spot the distinctive Elmore Pedestrian Bridge and catch glimpses of the distant Papago Mountains, providing a unique backdrop to the urban environment. This route stands out for its blend of accessibility, art, and scenic views within the city.

Embark on the Gateway Loop Trail for a moderate jogging experience through the classic Sonoran Desert landscape. This route spans 4.5 miles (7.3 km) and involves a 695 feet (212 metres) elevation gain, which you can typically complete in about 58 minutes. As you jog, you will encounter a mix of terrain, starting relatively flat before becoming rockier, with some sections featuring loose, 'potato-sized' rocks; sturdy footwear is a must for comfort and safety.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Gateway Trailhead provides ample parking, restrooms, and water fountains. The trail is open from sunrise to sunset, offering flexibility for your jogging schedule. Be aware that the route can become quite busy, especially on weekends, so consider an early morning or weekday visit for a more serene experience.

This popular loop offers more than just a workout; it provides panoramic views of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale, and even the distant White Tank Mountains from its highest point at the Gateway Saddle. Keep an eye out for the diverse desert flora, including saguaro and cholla cacti, and palo verde trees, which are particularly vibrant if you visit in spring when wildflowers are in bloom.

Embark on the Pemberton Trail Loop for a difficult jogging challenge through the Sonoran Desert. This route spans 15.2 miles (24.5 km) and features a total elevation gain of 757 feet (231 metres), offering expansive vistas of the McDowell Mountains as you climb. You will experience classic desert scenery with abundant saguaro cacti, palo verde trees, and striking rock outcroppings, typically completing the loop in about 2 hours and 58 minutes.

To access the Pemberton Trail Loop, head to McDowell Mountain Regional Park. Be aware that there is a small park fee required for entry. The main trailhead provides convenient amenities such as bathrooms, water, and picnic tables for your use before and after your jog. The trail is clearly marked, and you have the flexibility to choose whether to run the loop in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.

This trail is a prime example of the vibrant ecosystem found within the McDowell Mountain Regional Park. As you jog, keep an eye out for local wildlife and wildflowers, especially if you start your adventure early in the morning. The Pemberton Trail Loop stands out as a rewarding experience for those seeking a substantial desert jogging route within a well-maintained park setting.

Embark on a moderate jogging experience along the Papago Park 5k Fitness Trail, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) route that takes approximately 31 minutes to complete. You will gain 122 feet (37 metres) in elevation as you navigate through classic Sonoran Desert scenery. The trail winds past cactus-covered hills, offering clear views of the distinctive red sandstone buttes that define Papago Park. Keep an eye out for native plants and local wildlife while enjoying panoramic vistas of the Phoenix metropolitan area. A unique wooded section along the southwest part of the loop provides a contrasting visual element to the desert landscape.

This well-maintained trail is easily accessible, making it a popular choice for joggers seeking a varied workout. You will find multiple outdoor exercise stations along the route, perfect for adding to your fitness routine. Two shade ramadas offer spots for rest, and drinking fountains are available to keep you hydrated. Parking is generally available within Papago Park, which conveniently borders Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale, making it simple to reach.

The Papago Park 5k Fitness Trail immerses you in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, showcasing its unique ecosystem. As you jog, you can take in the panoramic views that stretch across the landscape, including the Papago Golf Course. This multi-use trail provides a dynamic environment, blending natural beauty with practical amenities for a fulfilling outdoor experience.

Embark on the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail 300 for a challenging jogging experience that rewards you with expansive views. This moderate route covers 2.5 miles (4.0 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 920 feet (280 metres), which you can typically complete in about 40 minutes. As you ascend, expect a relentless uphill climb on rocky, uneven surfaces with numerous switchbacks, leading you through the unique desert flora towards the summit. You will pass saguaro cacti and other Sonoran Desert plants, with the peak offering a clear visual landmark.

To plan your visit, know that the trail is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., making early morning or evening jogs popular choices to avoid the intense daytime heat. You will find restrooms and water facilities conveniently located near the trailhead. Remember that dogs are not permitted on this specific Summit Trail 300, so plan accordingly if you usually jog with a pet. Consider starting your journey during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular lighting conditions.

This trail is a standout in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, renowned for its demanding nature even for experienced joggers. The effort is well worth it for the spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Phoenix metropolitan area and the surrounding Sonoran Desert from the top. The summit of Piestewa Peak provides an incredible vantage point, allowing you to appreciate the vastness of the landscape and the city below.

Embark on the Windgate and Bell Pass Loop for a difficult jogging experience through the scenic McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This challenging 10.0-mile (16.1 km) route takes you through varied terrain, including rocky sections, steep climbs, and switchbacks, offering a strenuous workout. You will gain 2054 feet (626 metres) in elevation over approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes, with stunning views of Fountain Hills, Four Peaks, and the Verde River. Keep an eye out for prominent Saguaro cacti as you pass Inspiration Point, which provides excellent vistas of North Scottsdale and the McDowell Mountains.

To begin your journey, head to the Gateway Trailhead, where you will find convenient facilities like restrooms and water. While the trailhead can be busy, the route quickly offers a remote feel once you move past the initial Gateway Loop section. Be prepared for the challenging nature of this loop, particularly the steep incline on the west side of Bell Pass, which demands good fitness and careful footing.

This loop fully immerses you in the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert, showcasing its unique ecosystem. The diverse terrain and significant elevation gain make it a notable option for those seeking a rigorous outdoor challenge in the region. It is a perfect choice if you are looking for a demanding jogging route that combines a great workout with expansive desert landscapes.

Lace up for a moderate jogging loop on the Shaw Butte and Charles M. Christiansen Trail, covering 5.0 miles (8.0 km) with an 825-foot (251 metres) elevation gain. This route takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes to complete, offering a varied terrain of rocky, dirt, and even some paved sections. As you jog, you'll experience panoramic views, especially from the Shaw Butte Summit, where the entire valley unfolds beneath you. Keep an eye out for wildflowers in spring and falcons circling above. The trail provides a good workout with rewarding scenery.

You can easily access this jogging route from the North Mountain Visitor Center, which offers convenient amenities like water and a shaded ramada before you start. Plan your visit knowing that dogs are welcome to join you, provided they remain on a leash throughout the journey. Be mindful of the trail conditions; some sections can be uneven or rutted, particularly after rainfall, so wear appropriate footwear. Starting earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the midday heat, especially during warmer months.

This trail is nestled within the North Mountain Preserve, offering a natural escape right in the city. Beyond the scenic vistas, you can discover the concrete foundation of "Cloud Nine," a historical restaurant that once graced Shaw Butte. This unique historical detail adds an interesting layer to your jogging experience, connecting you with the area's past. It's a great way to combine exercise with a touch of local history and impressive views.

Tom's Thumb Trail presents a difficult jogging challenge, covering 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with a substantial elevation gain of 1180 feet (360 metres). This route typically takes around 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete. As you jog, you will move through varied desert vegetation and past unique granite boulder formations, including the iconic 140-foot Tom's Thumb. The trail offers panoramic views across the Sonoran Desert and towards distant mountain ranges like the Superstition Mountains, with viewpoints such as Harris's Hawk Vista providing spots to pause.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trailhead provides restrooms and shaded areas. However, there is no drinking water available on the trail or at the trailhead itself, so bringing ample water is crucial for your jog. The path is well-marked, which helps with straightforward navigation. Consider starting your jog early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat, especially during warmer seasons.

This trail is situated within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, offering a rewarding desert experience for those who enjoy significant climbs. The distinctive granite formations and the prominent Tom's Thumb rock feature make it a notable landmark in the region. It stands out as a challenging yet scenic option for joggers looking to push themselves while enjoying the unique desert landscape.

Jogging the Pinnacle Peak Trail offers a moderate workout across 4.0 miles (6.4 km), with a total elevation gain of 959 feet (292 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 48 minutes. The path features varied terrain, from smooth decomposed granite to rocky sections with built-in steps. As you ascend, you will pass through vibrant Sonoran Desert vegetation, including many saguaro cacti. Be sure to pause at viewpoints like Grandview for expansive vistas of Scottsdale and the surrounding mountains.

When planning your visit, you will find convenient amenities at the trailhead, including restrooms and water refill stations. It is important to note that dogs and bicycles are not permitted on the trail to preserve the natural environment. Joggers are also expected to yield to hikers, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone on this popular route.

This trail is located within Pinnacle Peak Park in Scottsdale, offering a unique opportunity to explore the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. Informational plaques along the way highlight local desert wildlife and plant life, enriching your scenic experience. The route provides a great way to connect with nature and learn about the region's natural heritage.