One of eight Scenic Trails in the U.S.

Arizona National Scenic Trail

One of 11 national scenic trails in the U.S., the 807-mile Arizona National Scenic Trail (AZT) traverses the state's vast and varied geography—from the mountains near Sierra Vista, along the border of Mexico, to Kanab by the Utah border.

HISTORY & NATURE

One man's passion for hiking in Arizona led to the creation of The Arizona Trail.In 1985, and at just 35, schoolteacher Dale Shewalter conceived the idea of a non-motorized trail running through the center of Arizona. He soon gained the support of land management agencies, hiking and equestrian organizations, and several other helpful individuals who contributed to the design and construction of the trail.Today, the Arizona National Scenic Trail—or Arizona Trail, for short—is an 807-mile journey through rugged, cactus-studded deserts, forests, canyons, and snow-capped peaks. Shewalter passed away in 2010 and a "golden" spike was planted in his memory on the Kelvin Access Trailhead beside the Gila River near Kearny.
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THINGS TO DO

Riders, hikers and mountain bikers, welcome to the Arizona Trail. These scenic paths are off-limits to motorized vehicles, meaning plenty of time for peace and quiet and natural beauty along your journey.The Trail is divided into 43 passages ranging from 8 to 33 miles long, beginning in the Huachuca Mountains near the Arizona-Mexico border. From there, the trail meanders north through Saguaro National Park, the Catalina Mountains, Tonto National Forest, Mormon Lake, Flagstaff, and the Grand Canyon. There are fishing opportunities where the trail crosses Roosevelt Lake, Mormon Lake, and creeks along the route.

HOTELS, LODGING & CAMPING

For the true adventurer, camping under the stars is the best bet. Although, if you need to stock up on supplies or want a soft bed for the night, there are plenty of stops along the trail in towns and cities such as Tucson, Flagstaff and Page.

Check out a complete listing of Gateway communities here.

Permits are not required along most of Arizona Trail if you are passing through; however, you'll need one if you choose to camp in certain areas such as Saguaro or Grand Canyon national parks.

HOURS AND PRICING

Open daily, year-round.Entrance Fee: FreeWhether it's dayhikes or a thru-hike of the AZT's 807 miles, find out everything you know at the Arizona Trail Association—a nonprofit organization dedicated to continuing the legacy for future generations.