Phoenix, America's fifth largest city and the capital of Arizona, was founded in the Salt River Valley in 1868. Its weather, with sunshine during 85 percent of daylight hours, is the number-one draw for visitors. Hiking is an ideal way to see the arroyos and cacti of the desert and the numerous hiking clubs based in the city ensure you a safe and social experience.
Where to Hike
The United States' largest municipal park, South Mountain Park and Preserve, covers 16,000 acres with 51 miles of trails. Camelback Mountain hosts the Echo Canyon and Cholla trails, which are particularly suitable for intermediate and advanced hikers. The Phoenix Mountain Preserve, home of Piestawa Peak, is located in close proximity to the city and is surrounded by trails. The website Visit Phoenix has a free hiking map for download that details the trails in Greater Phoenix, listing their length, difficulty and accessibility (see Resources).
Hiking for Singles
If you'd like to combine your hiking with socializing in a group of other singles, The Sierra Club Singles organize hiking trips and other outdoor activities as well as social events. Nonmembers can participate in all activities apart from technical canyoneering and rock climbing. A small donation per event supports conservation in Arizona.
General Hiking Clubs
Friends Outdoor Hiking and Camping Club has organized over 400 trips during its history. Members include individuals aged 25 to 60, single and married and from a broad spectrum of professions. Children and leashed dogs are allowed on most hikes and nonmembers can join a hike for a small fee. The club meets on the first Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m.
Wandering Soles has been arranging hikes since 1996. Hikes range from easy to difficult and from three to 20 miles. This group meets at 7:00 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month.
Clubs for Minority Groups
In 1981, Desert Adventures, one of the oldest gay and lesbian organizations in the Salt River Valley, was founded to promote socialization and enjoyment of the outdoors. With 250 members, the club welcomes both gay and straight hikers. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m.
In 1986, Arizona Adventurers was set up as a way for the Jewish population of Phoenix to come together to explore and hike Arizona's trails. This club also organizes biking, skiing and other social events.
Clubs for Older Hikers
If you're an older hiker and want to enjoy the outdoors in the company of people your own age, consider Arizona Outdoors and Travel Club. This group has run hiking trips for the over-30s since 1983. Averaging 300 members, the club's hikes cater for all levels of ability and usually are single day trips.
The age range of members of the Arizona Trailblazers is between 40 to 50; however, they welcome hikers of all ages. Leashed dogs are permitted on many hikes, which are usually seven to eight miles in length. Although based in Mesa, the majority of members come from Phoenix. The club meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m.
Member Comments