Phoenix is famous for its year-round sun and desert beauty—but when it comes to outdoor adventures, is it all sizzle and no substance?
On a recent camping trip, my guy and I chased down four of the most iconic experiences locals love to recommend. From hiking to paddling, outdoor festival people-watching to pedal-powered thrills, I wanted to test them out firsthand to see if they really live up to the hype.
Hike Flat Iron – Lost Dutchman State Park
We started early—before sunrise—to get ahead of the heat. The Flat Iron hike begins deceptively mellow, slowly climbing up towards Superstition Mountain. But before long, we were climbing and scrambling over boulders three times my size. It’s 2,600 feet of elevation gain in just 2.75 miles one way. I knew I was going to feel it. But when I finally walked across the namesake iron-shaped ridge and took in the Metro Phoenix views stretching into forever? Elation. Was it worth it? Absolutely. Would I do it again? I’ll let my thighs answer that.
Are you ready to find your next adventure? Let us inspire you!
About the Hike
- Best for: Fit hikers, thrill-seeking couples, experienced scramblers
- Things to Pack: Good footwear, lots of water, trail snacks, durable gloves for scrambling, trekking poles for final descent once off the boulders
- Best Time to go: Spring and late Fall
- Tip: Trail becomes multiple routes above Siphon Draw — don’t veer too far right towards the cliffs; keep watching for occasional painted trail markers
- Pros: Jaw-dropping views, serious bragging rights
- Cons: Exposed trail, easy to lose the route, no restrooms past the trailhead, and the thought of a helicopter rescue like the one we saw from our campsite at 10:30 pm later the same day
Kayak the Lower Salt River
Meeting with friends, we pushed off and joined a colorful flotilla of kayaks and paddleboards. For a moment, it felt like a floating traffic jam—but by the Foxtail pull out the crowds disappeared and the magic kicked in: songbirds set a cheerful tone, wild horses grazed along the riverbank and blue herons flew off with long, slow wing flaps. The Lower Salt River winds gently, giving you time to relax, paddle and soak it all in. Bumper boats at the start, but moments of serenity midstream? Call this one a sneaky hit.
About the River Ride
- Best for: Novice adventure-seekers and self-confirmed river rats
- Things to pack: Wear water shoes, bring a dry bag, and don’t forget sunscreen
- Best Time to go: May–June and late September weekends are the best and busiest; we watched water flows – minimum 400 cfs – and got on the river in March
- Tips:
- Where to Stop/Start: Put in at Water Users Recreation Area and take out at Phon D Sutton Rec Area (about a 4 hour paddle)
- Where to Rent: We used our own inflatable kayak, but try Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch or Riverbound Sports
- Pros: Easy paddle, wild horse sightings, scenic Sonoran Desert backdrop
- Cons: Popular weekends feel crowded, shuttles can be a hassle, limited shade, requires Tonto Pass (purchase at parking lot)
Explore the Arizona Renaissance Festival
We arrived at 9:45 a.m., hoping to beat the crowd. Instead, we joined a costumed stampede pouring through the gates like cattle through a chute – except these beasts of the human kind wore corsets and feathered hats. Within minutes we were drawn in by the music of lutes and harps, Don Juan cracking a whip and the overwhelming smell of roasting turkey legs. The festival grounds feel like a bustling medieval village, complete with falconry, jousting tournaments and bawdy tavern humor. Is it hiking? No. Is it outdoors? Definitely. Is it quirky? You bet your velvet tights.
About the Fair
- Best for: Couples who love themed events or people-watching with a pint in hand
- Things to Pack: Lacy parasol or a big hat and sunscreen to help beat the heat
- Best Time to Go: Arrive early and leave before closing to avoid traffic; open Sat/Sun in February and March only – plan ahead
- Tip: Buy tickets online to skip the entry wait, and bring cash for vendor transactions
- Pros: Unique atmosphere, live music, endless photo ops
- Cons: Expensive snacks, little shade, crowds
Hit the Trails on a Mountain Bike
In the past we’ve started slow – warming up on the mellow, flowy singletrack at Usery Mountain Regional Park. Desert views, cactus gardens, a few swooping turns. It’s a perfect place for an intro ride. On another trip, we explored McDowell Mountain Regional Park for longer loops and light climbs. This time it was Hawes. Locals call themselves “Hawesaholics” for a reason; you just can’t get enough. We pedaled past drop-offs, twisted through cholla forests, and earned that cold bevvie at the end. Hawes trails? Again, please!
About the Bike Ride
- Best for: Couples who like a little challenge and don’t mind getting dusty
- Things to Pack: Water, repair kit, camera/cell phone for hero shots!
- Best Time to Go: Spring and Fall – but watch the weather
- Tips:
- Where to Ride: Twisted Sister/Big Sister loop is my Hawes fave – it’s blue baby – but there’s plenty of harder trails to explore if you choose!
- Where to Rent: We brought our own but try Global Bikes (Mesa)
- Tip: Start early to beat heat and traffic
- Pros: Wide trail variety, stunning desert scenery, great rental options
- Cons: Sharp cactus, loose gravel, limited cell service in remote areas
Where to Stay
Best places for camping around Phoenix are Lost Dutchman State Park and Usery Mountain Regional Park. There are also dozens of hotels nearby – in all price ranges – to choose from.
Getting There
- Fly Into: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Vehicle Rental: Get a vehicle to access these adventures as public transport is limited; try an Escape CamperVan – perfect for outdoor adventures!
- Directions to Each Activity:
- Flat Iron: 40 min east of Phoenix via US-60
- Lower Salt River: 35 min northeast via AZ-87
- Ren Fest: About 50 min southeast in Gold Canyon
- MTB Trails: Usery & Hawes – 30-40 min east; McDowell – 45 min northeast
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