These 3 Arizona hiking trails are among the most loved in US. Here's why
Arizona is known for its hiking, and more national rankings are proving it.
Three Arizona hikes recently made a list of the 10 most beloved hikes in the United States from outdoor apparel brand KÜHL. The list included popular trails like Lands End in San Francisco, Half Dome via the John Muir Trail and Waihe’e Ridge Trail in Hawaii.
The Bright Angel Trail in Arizona ranked third on the list, with two popular hikes near Sedona coming in at sixth and seventh.
“Arizona’s trails deliver everything today’s hikers want: breathtaking landscapes, challenging routes, and unforgettable experiences," Oded Gross, from KÜHL, said. "From the iconic Bright Angel to the striking Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge, these trails showcase the diverse beauty and adventure that make Arizona a top hiking destination.”
The Rim Trail stretches for 13 miles along the edge of the South Rim. It’s mostly paved and level.
Here's what to know about the three Arizona trails, including why they are so beloved and how to take the hikes.
Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park
The Bright Angel Trail is the most popular trail in the Grand Canyon National Park. It allows visitors to descend through time in the footsteps of previous occupants, like the Native tribes that called the canyon home, miners and early tourists.
However, those interested in making the hike will have to wait awhile. The trail is closed in certain areas for a waterline replacement project.
There are several stopping points along the trail, providing a choose-your-own-adventure approach based on time and physical abilities. For more details about the trail and closures, visit nps.gov/places/000/bright-angel-trail.htm.
Cathedral Rock Trail near Sedona
Cathedral Rock, the iconic red-rock formation overlooking Oak Creek in Sedona, is one of the city's biggest attractions. Tens of thousands of people hike the challenging Cathedral Rock Trail each year.
The 1.1 out and back trail is considered challenging, despite its short distance. You must scramble up well-trafficked rocks near the top which can be slippery, according to All Trails. However, the stunning views of Sedona's red rocks are well worth the effort.
If you're planning to take this hike, it's essential to note that the trailhead parking is closed Thursday-Sunday, so you must take the free Sedona Shuttle to access it. You must have a Red Rock Pass to access this trail.
Devil's Bridge Trail near Sedona
The Devil's Bridge Trail is one of the busiest in Arizona and has long attracted many Sedona visitors for several reasons. Not only does the hike pay off with the iconic natural sandstone arch, it's also easy to access, relatively short and not very difficult.
From the State Route 179/89A traffic circle in Sedona, go 3.2 miles west (toward Cottonwood) on SR 89A to Dry Creek Road. Turn right and go 2 miles to the turnoff for Forest Road 152 on the right. Follow FR 152 past the Dry Creek Vista trailhead for about a mile to the signed Devil's Bridge parking area.
From this trailhead, the hike is about 1.8 miles round trips with a rating of moderate. There are several other trails you can take, including that Mescal day-use or the Dry Creek Vista trailheads, though they are 4 and 5.8 miles roundtrip, respectively.
10 most loved hiking trails in the United States
- Centerpoint to Goat Trail, Buffalo National River, AR
- Lands End Trail, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, CA
- Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
- Indian Head and Rainbow Falls, Adirondack Mountain Reserve, NY
- Half Dome via the John Muir Trail, Yosemite National Park, CA
- Cathedral Rock Trail, Coconino National Forest, AZ
- Devil's Bridge Trail via Dry Creek Road, Coconino National Forest, AZ
- Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, MT
- Waihe’e Ridge Trail, West Maui Forest Reserve, HI
- Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, NV
How did KÜHL pick America's most loved trails?
KÜHL looked at 1,000 hiking trails across the U.S. and ranked their popularity based on AllTrails reviews and scores, Google search interest, and Instagram popularity.
Arizona Republic reporter Michael Salerno and contributor Mare Czinar contributed to this article.
