Phoenix named after the fiery fabled bird that has a unique style of bursting into flames only to be reborn from its own ashes is the nation's fifth largest city. With more than half the year filled with plenty of sunshine, it is well known for its temperatures! Phoenix has plenty to offer the adventurer in you. Ranging from rock mountains to peaceful restaurants where you can simply spend away time(air conditioned of course) phoenix has it all!

Mileage, difficulty and kid friendly details

http://www.arizonahikingtrails.com/phoenixhikes.asp

Phoenix and central Arizona hiking

http://www.trails.com/activity.aspx?area=12208

Phoenix which was once a humble community took it's own time to transform into a metropolitan conglomerate which covers approximately 2000 miles of the salt river valley floor. It is now home to more than 3.5 million residents. It is one major transformation that history has witnessed.

Phoenix has everything and you can always choose according to your style. Be it sipping wine at an art gallery, exploring pre historic Indian ruins which are considered to be one of the most interesting things to do or purchasing designer stuff at fashionable boutiques, phoenix has it all.

A map of phoenix

http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Phoenix&state=AZ

Hiking in Phoenix

http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/hikecmlb.html

Even though Phoenix is the fifth-largest city in the United States, there are plenty of opportunities to get away from fast-paced city life and explore the great outdoors. You can start by learning about the sonorant desert plants. These are at the 145-acre themed gardens which are at the desert botanical gardens. You could also pay a visit to the nearby phoenix zoo located southwest.

Hiking information is easily available from a number of blogs on Phoenix hiking adventure. A good example of the source of Phoenix hiking tips can be gotten from the blog lifeTips among other sites on the same. The Phoenix travel guide will also come in hardy when preparing to go hiking in Phoenix.

http://hiking.lifetips.com/faq/0/0/question-answer/index.html

1. What is hiking the Phoenix way?

Hiking in Phoenix involves all the activities and experiences that can rightfully be described as adventure. Weather you prefer a breathtaking, challenging hike, or a scenic leisurely walk; you won't be disappointed because that's exactly the kind of an amazing outdoor adventure you will get. All these activities will make every single travel in Phoenix a memorable experience courtesy of the mountains and hills of the greater Phoenix.

http://www.visitPhoenix.com/visitor/index.cfm?action=trails

2. What are some of the leading guides and outfitters in Phoenix?

The stellar adventures have since 1997 being taking hikers in the valley of the sun in a unique off-road adventure tour. The Windwalker expeditions are also known to take the hiker many years back in one of the most nostalgic and heart rending experiences. The 360 Adventure is another reliable company which specializes in rock climbing, mountain hiking, canyoneering excursion and backpacking among others.

http://www.go-arizona.com/Phoenix/Guides/Hiking/

http://www.go-arizona.com/Phoenix/Outfitters/

The unique combination of mountains and desert in Arizona makes it a heaven for a biker. Whether you are a professional or a beginner, you will find many exciting hiking trails in the area of Phoenix.

The good hiking trails in Phoenix

Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area

http://phoenix.gov/RIOSALADO/index.html

The area stretches for five miles south of downtown Phoenix along the Salt River. It has a lush riparian corridor with 5 miles of dirt and paved trails dotted with unique designs and user features. Birdwatchers can spot more than 200 species of birds here.

Waterfall Trail

http://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=142

The Waterfall Trail in the White Tank Mountains is an easy hike. The trail, also suitable for children has petroglyphs along the way.

South Mountain Park/Preserve

http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/hikesoth.html

The South Mountain Park has an area of more than 16,000 acres. It has 51 miles of primary trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding for all ability levels.

Papago Park

http://phoenix-attractions.10-best.info/papago.html

The trails of Papago Park are generally easy treks with little gain of elevation, making it a nice place for family hikes.

Camelback Mountain

http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/hikecmlb.html

The red sandstone cliffs and the telltale hump of Camelback Mountain draws thousands of hikers each year. The two summit trails have strenuous climbs over trails which are also sometimes tricky.

Reach 11 Recreation Area

http://www.yelp.com/biz/reach-11-recreation-area-phoenix

Reach 11 Recreation Area has 18 miles of 7 feet wide, groomed and multi-use trails bisecting the entire park. These trails meander through a unique desert landscape which is abundant with native wildlife and vegetation.

Piestewa Peak/Dreamy Draw Area

http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/hikephx.html

These areas surrounding the base of Piestewa Park are gateways into diverse desert which offer fantastic views and secluded valleys. The area has miles of hiking trails where you can enjoy the Sonorian Desert glory in a relative solitude.