Unconventional hiking opportunities
Arizona is known for its amazing hiking trails with beautiful views; some of the most common spots are on South Mountain and Piestewa Peak. Aside from the popular spots, there are a variety of many other trails that are lesser known but just as rigorous and fun. What most hikers don’t know is that there are a surplus of “unconventional” hikes that are offered to the general public. Most of these fun hikes being great for families as well as groups of or singular hikers.
Petroglyphs are rock carvings made by native peoples, and most of the ones Arizona were created by the Pueblo Indians or their ancestors. Many interpretations are available for what each symbol translates to, so only the person who carved them has 100% knowledge on what the symbols actually mean. Some popular spots to find petroglyphs include: Rock Art Ranch, Painted Rock Petroglyph Site and Montezuma Castle National Monument (which is considered to be one of the best preserved cliff dwelling sites in North America).
South Mountain also has many trails that lead to or stop by these rock carvings, one of which that can be found by going south on the Desert Classic Trail. This trail can be accessed by parking at the end of East Pima Canyon Road. There is also a difficult hiking spot that can be found by walking up the large wash next to Heard Scout Pueblo. Once at the top, a large amount of different petroglyphs can be seen on the side of the wash. South Mountain as well as other surrounding parks also hold moonlight hikes. These moonlight hikes usually occur during full moons for the best possible experience. Hikers who participate are welcome to bring black-lights to try and spot some scorpions, snakes and the occasional tarantula over the course of the hike. It is recommended to take these hikes with a guide or a group as it is a nighttime activity, but many often go out on their own. Local parks also hold starry-night hikes for the avid star-gazer and night photographer.
Hole-in-the-Rock is another great hike for photographers as it is a relatively easy hike, located in Papago Park. Sunsets are especially great from the top of this location. For more hiking ideas visit the links below:
