Mesa’s Best Hiking Trails for Every Experience Level (and Every Dog)

Living in the desert doesn’t mean sacrificing green space or fresh air and if you’re lucky enough to live in Mesa, AZ, you’re surrounded by some of the best hiking trails in the East Valley.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a casual walker, or just someone who wants a solid outdoor spot to wear out your dog, Mesa has a trail for you.

Here’s a breakdown of the top trails in and around Mesa, plus tips on which ones are dog-friendly, family-friendly, or perfect for sunrise selfies.

🏞️ 1. Wind Cave Trail - Usery Mountain Regional Park

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 3.2 miles round trip

• Dog-Friendly: Yes

• Trailhead: Located in northeast Mesa off Usery Pass Rd

This is probably Mesa’s most iconic trail and for good reason. It’s steep enough to feel like a real workout, but still manageable for most hikers. At the top, you’ll find shaded caves and wide valley views. It’s especially popular during the cooler months, so go early to beat the crowd.

🌟 Local Tip: Watch for wildflowers in spring and bring extra water for your pup.

🌄 2. Spook Hill Trail - East Mesa

• Difficulty: Easy

• Distance: ~1 mile

• Dog-Friendly: Yes

• Trailhead: Near Ellsworth and Guadalupe

This hidden gem is perfect for a quick morning or evening hike. It’s short, sweet, and scenic, making it ideal for kids, beginner hikers, or anyone easing into Arizona trails.

🌟 Bonus: Amazing sunrise views and very few crowds.

🚴 3. Hawes Trail System - North Mesa

• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

• Distance: Multiple loop options

• Dog-Friendly: Yes, but rugged

• Trailhead: Power Rd & Bush Hwy area

This trail network is a favorite among serious mountain bikers and hikers. Expect elevation changes, desert scenery, and fewer paved paths. It’s a little more remote, but still within Mesa city limits.

⚠️ Pack plenty of water and watch for cyclists sharing the trail.

🌳 4. Red Mountain Park Loop

• Difficulty: Easy

• Distance: ~1 mile paved loop

• Dog-Friendly: Very

• Trailhead: Power & Brown

Perfect for daily walks, strollers, and senior dogs. It’s more of a park loop than a traditional hike, but it’s shaded, clean, and well-maintained, and there are nearby grassy areas and playgrounds.

🐾 This is one of the most accessible dog-walking spots in Mesa.

🏔️ 5. Tonto Forest Overlook - Usury Pass Area

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: ~2 miles

• Dog-Friendly: Yes

• Trailhead: Just outside Usery Mountain Park

This one's less popular but still scenic, offering a peaceful overlook into the Tonto National Forest. Fewer people = more chill for reactive pups or solitude seekers.

🧭 Bonus Trails Just Outside Mesa (We’ll Cover These Next Week)

You don’t have to go far to explore more East Valley favorites:

• San Tan Mountain Regional Park - Big views, long trails

• Hieroglyphic Trail, Gold Canyon - Petroglyphs + pools

• Lost Dutchman State Park, Apache Junction - A bucket list hike

Stay tuned for next week’s full post on East Valley’s top hikes outside Mesa.

🐕 Final Thoughts: Mesa is a Hiker’s (and Dog’s) Paradise

Whether you're into rugged ascents or breezy loops, Mesa offers a perfect blend of outdoor living and desert beauty, all minutes from home.

📲 Want a Home Near the Trails?

I help buyers find homes near Mesa’s best outdoor spots and I can point out which neighborhoods offer direct trail access, low HOAs, and even builder incentives near Usery Mountain.

➡️ Schedule a buyer consult https://calendly.com/culverhomesaz/discovery-call