Four Places, Other Than the Grand Canyon, to Hike in Arizona

Sure the Grand Canyon has several trials (each offering a better view than the last), but you are often stuck with crowds of people, trying to get a glimpse of one of the world's natural wonders. If big crowds aren't your thing, and you'd rather enjoy spectacular scenery sans the "nature wannabes," here are four great hiking trails in the state of Arizona that will expose you to dazzling scenery without the bother of thousands of other people.

Paria Canyon. This one's kind of a cheat. It actually starts in Utah. However, you spend most of your time in Arizona. The trailhead is near the border, in one of the most scenic desertscapes in the United States. You will need a great deal of preparation, however. The land is mostly owned by the BLM and is considered backcountry, so a permit is needed. Additionally, it is a multi-day trip. The trail ends quite a ways from the trailhead, so it is a good idea to arrange for someone to pick you up and drive you to your car. Be aware that the area is prone to flash floods (sometimes the road to the trailhead is washed out), so watch the weather. But the canyon is spectacular, and you are well rewarded for your efforts.

Picacho Peak. If you are looking for a breathtaking view of the Sonora desert, this is the hike for you. You can go up and back the same way (a round trip of seven miles) or you can take an alternate trail from the peak back to the trailhead. This adds a few extra miles, but is well worth it. The trail gets steep and can be challenging. You must be in fairly good physical condition to complete the hike. Steel cables aid the climber, so gloves are a good idea so you can avoid tearing your hands up. Picacho Peak is near Casa Grande.

Wet Beaver Loop. As the name implies, you will get wet (wading through water is essential at some points). And you will probably need at least two days to complete the 22-mile loop. This is not a hike that is appropriate for children. Kids should be teenagers at least, and up to the challenge. There are specific camping areas, so you can plan your daily progress around where you would like to stop. Waldroup Canyon is an amazing feature of this hike, as are the several waterfalls.

Kendrick Mountain. Here is a moderately easy hike that most people can do. The trail is 9.2 miles round trip and features some fabulous views. You end looking at an interesting old cabin in an idyllic setting, but along the way you will see Red Mountain, Sycamore Canyon, Mount Humphreys, and even, in the right conditions, the Grand Canyon's North Rim. The length of the trail is do mostly to switchbacks.