Best Backpacking Trips in Arizona

Arizona’s backcountry, with its incomparable desert landscape, is an ideal location for backpackers from beginner to advanced. Arizona has some of the best and most famous backpacking trips in the United States with adventures that can last from one or two nights to weeklong escapes. Whichever Arizona backpacking trip you choose, it is absolutely a decision you won’t regret.

Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Backpacking

Over 277 miles long, ten miles wide, and a mile deep, this Natural Wonder of the World is a geological and photogenic heavyweight in the world of backpacking. Towering cliffs, waterfalls, ancient ruins, and endless views await those willing to make their way to Southwest.

Havasu Falls

This ten-mile one-way hike leads to a series of magical turquoise blue waterfalls and pools framed against the majestic reddish-orange cliffs of Grand Canyon. Havasupai, as it is commonly referred to, is actually a Native American tribe, whose name translates to ‘people of the blue-green water’. This adventure is extremely popular and requires securing hard to get permits online. The most popular times to backpack here are March through October.

Backpacking the Superstition Mountains

Very close to Phoenix but also ruggedly remote in Arizona’s wilderness, the Superstition Mountains offer an epic adventure. Thankfully, the Superstition Mountains are still relatively lightly traveled. This Sonoran Desert backpacking experience includes solitude, wildness, unforgettable views, and miles of trails to explore.

Aravaipa Canyon

Aravaipa Canyon is a watery oasis in Arizona’s otherwise dry southern region. Nestled equally southeast of Phoenix and northeast of Tucson, this desert jewel offers spectacular volcanic rock formations, a beautiful perennial stream, watery hiking, swimming holes, and excellent camping. Only 50 people are allowed in the permitted part of the wilderness per day so reservations are essential and can be secured up to 13 weeks in advance.

Arizona is becoming one of the United States’ most traveled states due to the increase in those wanting to backpack and hike. The Instagram photos of this terrain’s beauty is also a part of this rush to the West.