The Verde Valley Circle Trail is an ambitious 89 mile regional trail system designed to connect communities, landscapes, and recreation areas throughout the Verde Valley. Instead of being a single dirt path, it is a connected network of trails, greenways, and multi use pathways that will eventually form a continuous loop through some of central Arizona’s most scenic terrain.

For HikePhoenix readers looking to expand beyond the usual Valley peaks, this is a trail system worth watching.

The Verde Valley Circle Trail links six communities:

It incorporates:

When fully complete, the loop will stretch roughly 89 miles, offering the potential for section hiking, bikepacking, trail running, and multi day adventures.

One of the most unique aspects of the Circle Trail is the diversity of terrain you experience in a relatively compact area.

You move from:

Few trail systems in Arizona combine recreation, river access, and small town charm in this way. You are not just hiking through open desert. You are hiking between communities with coffee shops, breweries, historic districts, and lodging.

It is a very different feel compared to summit focused Phoenix hikes like Camelback or Piestewa.

For those of us in the Phoenix metro area, the Verde Valley offers a sweet spot:

As more segments are completed, the Circle Trail could become a go to weekend destination. You could hike 8 to 12 miles in the morning and still be in Old Town Cottonwood by afternoon.

It also opens the door to new goals. Instead of just chasing summits, hikers can set a target of completing the entire loop over multiple trips.

Yes, in sections.

Many existing trails around Sedona, Clarkdale, and along the Verde River are already usable. What is evolving is the connectivity. Gaps between communities are being filled with new trail segments, improved crossings, and designated pathways.

The long term vision is a fully signed, continuous loop that is accessible for hikers and cyclists alike.

Arizona is known for iconic long distance routes like the Arizona Trail. The Verde Valley Circle Trail is different. It is regional. It is community driven. It is accessible.

It is also practical. Not every hiker has weeks to dedicate to a thru hike. But many of us can carve out weekends. The Circle Trail is built for that kind of adventure.

As development continues, this trail system may quietly become one of the most versatile outdoor experiences in central Arizona.

If you are planning a spring or fall weekend escape from Phoenix, keep the Verde Valley Circle Trail on your radar. It might just become your new favorite loop.