Exploring the desert should be something everyone can enjoy. Fortunately, the Phoenix metro area has a growing number of trails designed with accessibility in mind. These paved and barrier-free paths make it possible for wheelchair users, families with strollers, and anyone with limited mobility to experience the beauty of Arizona’s outdoors.
Here are some of the best options across the Valley:
🌵 Phoenix
Papago Park – Hole-in-the-Rock Trail
A short, paved walkway leads up to the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock. The incline is gentle, and the payoff is sweeping views of the city and desert.
Papago Park – Double Butte Loop
This flat loop circles the park’s famous red buttes. With its wide and accessible pathway, it’s a great spot for sightseeing without strenuous climbing.
South Mountain Park – Judith Tunnell Accessible Trail
Specifically designed for wheelchair access, this trail features two loops (¼ and ½ mile) with desert plants, shaded rest areas, and interpretive signs.
Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area
Stretching along the Salt River, this trail system offers paved paths where visitors can birdwatch, spot desert wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful stretch of urban nature.
🌵 Scottsdale
McDowell Sonoran Preserve – Bajada Nature Trail
Located at the Gateway trailhead, this 0.5-mile loop is barrier-free and comes with interpretive signs highlighting the unique Sonoran Desert plants.
Chaparral Park Lake Trail
Flat and fully paved, this loop circles a scenic park lake and is perfect for a relaxing stroll or roll.
🌵 Tempe
Tempe Town Lake Multi-Use Path
With miles of paved pathways on both shores of the lake, this spot is ideal for accessible walking, rolling, or biking.
🌵 Mesa
Riverview Park Pathway
A smooth, paved trail around the lake and recreation areas. Shaded spots and rest areas make it especially comfortable.
Red Mountain Park Trail Loop
Wide paved loops with mountain views provide a desert experience that’s easy on wheels and feet alike.
🌵 Glendale & Peoria
Thunderbird Conservation Park
The park’s accessible loop near the main entrance provides a short but rewarding desert walk.
New River Trail
Running through Peoria and Glendale, this long, paved multi-use path follows the New River and connects multiple neighborhoods.
🌵 Other Valley Favorites
Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt (Scottsdale) – Miles of linked parks and lakes connected by paved, accessible trails.
Arizona Canal Path – Level and paved, this historic canal trail runs through much of Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Tips for Visiting Accessible Trails
Visit early in the morning or evening during summer to avoid extreme heat.
Look for shaded ramadas, rest areas, and accessible restrooms (many parks provide them).
If possible, bring a buddy—desert trails are best enjoyed with company.
