Lace up your hiking boots for six trails near Cactus League stadiums

Jan 30, 2025Sponsored by Visit Arizona/Appreciate AZ

Arizona is radiant February through March, full of sunny-yet-cool mornings and desert wildflowers in bloom. Whether you take to the trails pre-or-post game, you’ll discover an invigorating outdoor escape on these six hikes.

Photo Courtesy of Visit Phoenix

Fat Man’s Pass via Mormon Trail

Nearest stadiums: Tempe Diablo Stadium and Sloan Park

Bring the kids for this 3.7-mile loop, because the hike ends in a thrilling squeeze through “Fat Man’s Pass,” a one-foot-wide passageway between granite boulders. Along the moderately challenging path, you will encounter miniature valleys and quirky rock tunnels. Pro tip: Bring plenty of water, wear closed-toed shoes, and, for this hike, use the restroom before as there is not one at the trailhead.

POST-HIKE REFUELING STOP: Brunch at Morning Glory Café, a darling café surrounded by lush organic gardens.

L.V. Yates Trail

Nearest stadiums: Salt River Fields, Scottsdale Stadium, and American Family Fields of Phoenix

Ready to be awed by the vastness of the Sonoran Desert? This easy-to-moderate 2.9-mile trail is known for sweeping views of the valley below. In the spring, wildflowers spill onto the trail and sprout from the smallest cracks. Look for Daisy Desertstar, California Poppies, and Yellow Cups. Want to add mileage? Additional paths branch off the main trail, allowing for further exploration. If you’re directionally challenged, download a turn-by-turn map from AllTrails.

POST-HIKE REFUELING STOP: Breakfast at Joybus Diner, where chef-inspired dishes help provide meals—and much-appreciated cheer—to homebound cancer patients.

Wind Cave Trail

Nearest stadiums: Hohokam Stadium and Sloan Park

Soaking up a famous Arizona sunset from under the rocky overhang known as the Wind Cave will immerse you in the sights and sounds of the desert. Lizards skitter across the path and bees buzz from flower to agave plant. The 3.2-mile trail starts flat, flanked by views of Tonto National Forest. Then, as you near the cave, it transitions to steep switchbacks—well worth it for the stunning views.

POST-HIKE REFUELING STOP: Beers and sausage boards at Papago Brewing, where local brews are their passion.

Wind Cave Trail — Photo Courtesy of Visit Phoenix

Desert Tortoise Trail

Nearest stadium: Peoria Sports Complex

Is that a Cactus Wren flitting overhead? Nestled amid Phoenix’s Sonoran Desert Preserve, Desert Tortoise Trail is known as a haven for dozens of bird species, from the Gila Woodpecker to the Ash-throated Flycatcher. Catch a glimpse of our state bird—the Cactus Wren—and many others on this easy 2.8-mile loop.

POST-HIKE REFUELING STOP: Margaritas at Revolu Modern Taqueria + Bar, where you’ll find a fresh take on Mexican street food.

White Tank Waterfall Trail

Nearest stadiums: Surprise Stadium, Goodyear Ballpark

Encounter history on this 2-mile roundtrip hike. Ancient petroglyphs, etched into rocks by the Hohokam people and their predecessors, adorn this trail, dating as far back as 2,000 B.C. Hikers of all abilities will enjoy this adventure, especially since the first half-mile features a wheelchair-accessible path. The real draw? A stunning waterfall at the end. Time your hike for soon after rain to see the falls at their peak.

POST-HIKE REFUELING STOP: Breakfast burritos and iced coffee at Gathered Grounds (the Peanut-Butter Blondie is a must-try).

Tolleson Wetlands Loop

Nearest stadium: Camelback Ranch-Glendale

Meander along this flat route circumventing the wetlands of the Tres Rios Wetlands Nature Preserve. The 5.3-mile loop provides a quiet getaway into nature. Water on one side of the trail reflects the blue sky above, and pelicans grace the water’s surface. Tall grasses sway along the bank, and if you’re lucky, you might just spot a beaver. A permit (free) is required to access this trail; obtain one online at phoenix.gov.

POST-HIKE REFUELING STOP: Mimosas at New Penny Café, a shop that sells local artists’ work; the perfect plate paired with the perfect memento.