The best walks and hikes around Red Rock

The hiking trails around Red Rock, primarily within Picacho Peak State Park, offer a mix of easy and moderate options. There are 2 easy routes and 4 moderate routes, characterized by significant elevation changes and varied terrain. While no trails are classified as difficult, the moderate routes provide a good challenge with sustained climbs.

Yes, Red Rock offers several easy trails suitable for families. The Calloway Trail loop — Picacho Peak State Park is a short 1.1 km (0.7 miles) route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely walk. Another accessible option is the Calloway Trail to Overlook — Picacho Peak State Park, which is 2.1 km (1.3 miles) and leads to a scenic viewpoint.

Hikers in Red Rock will encounter diverse trail surfaces, ranging from well-maintained paths to more rugged sections with loose rock and steep ascents. The region is defined by prominent peaks and significant elevation changes, so expect a mix of sandy washes, rocky climbs, and exposed ridges, especially on routes leading to Picacho Peak.

The most prominent landmark is Picacho Peak itself, which many trails ascend to for panoramic views. The Calloway Trail Overlook also provides excellent vistas of the surrounding landscape. For those seeking a unique experience, the Via Ferrata cable route — Picacho Peak State Park offers an adventurous way to explore the peak's rock faces.

Picacho Peak State Park, where many of the Red Rock trails are located, generally allows leashed dogs on its hiking trails. However, it's always recommended to check the specific park regulations or individual trail descriptions before heading out, as some areas or trails might have restrictions.

The hiking routes in Red Rock are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the rewarding panoramic views from the summits, the challenging yet achievable ascents, and the unique desert landscape surrounding Picacho Peak.

For a more extended and challenging moderate hike, consider the Picacho Peak via Sunset Vista Trail — Eloy. This 9.1 km (5.7 miles) route involves a significant ascent, providing a strenuous workout with rewarding vistas of the surrounding landscape. Another great option is the Picacho Peak State Park loop via Hunter Trail, a 9.6 km (6.0 miles) trail with sustained climbs.

The best time to visit Red Rock for hiking is typically during the cooler months, from late fall through spring (October to April). Summers can be extremely hot, making hiking challenging and potentially dangerous due to high temperatures and sun exposure. Always check weather forecasts and carry plenty of water, regardless of the season.

There are 6 distinct hiking trails detailed in this guide for the Red Rock area, primarily within Picacho Peak State Park. These routes offer a range of experiences from easy walks to moderate ascents, catering to different fitness levels.

Yes, the Picacho Peak via Hunter Trail — Eloy is an excellent choice for a good workout. This 4.6 km (2.9 miles) moderate trail features an elevation gain of over 430 meters (1,400 feet), providing a sustained climb to the summit of Picacho Peak.

Yes, there are loop options available. The Picacho Peak State Park loop via Hunter Trail is a popular 9.6 km (6.0 miles) loop that offers a comprehensive experience of the area's terrain and views. For a shorter loop, the Calloway Trail loop — Picacho Peak State Park is an easy 1.1 km (0.7 miles) option.