Hiking

Usery Mountain Regional Park

A locals’ favorite for sunrise starts and family-friendly loops. More than 29 miles of well-signed trails climb gently to wide-open Valley vistas.
Why go: Classic desert scenery, great first-timers’ hikes, spectacular sunsets.
Need to know: Day-use entry fee. Detailed trail maps and current conditions at the on-site Nature Center.

Lost Dutchman State Park (Superstition Mountains)

Where myth meets muscle. Easy nature paths roll right out of the campground, while the Siphon Draw Trail challenges strong hikers en route to legendary Flatiron views.
Why go: Iconic Superstition backdrop, options from casual to extreme difficulty.
Need to know: Day-use entry fee; both day-use and overnight camping available. Check weather and start early for strenuous routes.

Tonto National Forest (Superstition Wilderness & Four Peaks)

Vast, rugged, and rewardingly remote—this is where Mesa’s day hikes turn into true desert adventures.
Why go: Big country, quieter trails, backcountry feel close to town.
Need to know: A Tonto Pass may be required at certain trailheads and recreation sites. For detailed hiking locations and current advisories, contact the Mesa Ranger Station.
Plan ahead: water, navigation, and daylight matter here.

ADVENTURE EXPLORER GUIDE >>

Before heading out to explore the vast Sonoran Desert, take caution. While the desert offers breathtaking scenery, it can also be unfamiliar territory for out-of-town guests not acclimated to the varied temperatures and rugged terrain. Below is a list of tips before hitting the trail.

1. Always pack water. Avoid dehydration by drinking water often throughout your hike. A good rule of thumb is to pack one gallon of water for a full-day of desert exploring.
2. Dress appropriately. Desert temperatures can hit extreme highs and extreme lows in a 24-hour period. Wearing layers helps slow dehydration and limits your sun exposure. Always wear closed-toe shoes. Wearing a hat and sunglasses are also recommended.
3. Apply sunscreen - often. Even in the winter months, Arizona's direct sunlight can cause severe burns.
4. Hike with a friend or in a group. If heading out solo, let someone else know of your plans or alert the ranger where you plan to hike.
5. Never stray from the designated trail. Desert terrain is rugged and unpredictable. Most parks offer maps and marked guides along the trail.
6. Be alert! The desert is full of critters that will attack if approached. Watch for rattlesnakes, Gila monsters and scorpions to name a few. If necessary, make noise so critters know of your presence. Be mindful of their surroundings and treat them with caution and respect.
7. It is very common to pick up cactus needles during your hike. Pack a fine-tooth plastic comb for removing the needles - never use your fingers!
8. Use trail etiquette at all times. Runners and hikers yield to equestrians. Bicyclists should yield to everyone. Downhill traffic should yield to uphill traffic. When in doubt, give other users the right of way.
9. Pack out what you pack in. Deposit trash in receptacles and leave no garbage behind.
10. Knowledgeable guides are available to lead hikes throughout all the parks near Mesa.
11. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. Most parks are equipped to alert services and promptly execute a desert rescue.

This informative video shares helpful tips for visitors before planning their desert explorations. In addition, the video captures a personal story and hiker rescue, while encouraging visitors to stay on the marked trails when visiting Mesa area parks. Produced by City of Mesa Fire and Medical Department.