Day Trips from Payson
← All Payson day tripsDay Trips from Payson: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Payson, AZ. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Payson
Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Just 1 hr 26 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars by 7,455 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Pine, AZ 85544
Just 21 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars by 3,977 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Salt River Canyon Wilderness Area
AZ 85501, USA
Just 1 hr 47 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Trail Head Preserve - McDowell Mountains
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Just 1 hr 18 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars by 132 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Phoenix Mountains Preserve
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Just 1 hr 29 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars by 6,178 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Oak Creek Canyon Natural Area
Sedona, AZ 86336
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Just 1 hr 19 min from Payson, rated 4.8 stars by 2,450 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Prescott National Forest
AZ 86305, USA
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Payson, rated 4.7 stars by 7,243 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Red Rock State Park
Sedona, AZ 86336
Just 1 hr 44 min from Payson, rated 4.7 stars by 1,987 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hassayampa River Preserve
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
Just 2 hrs 14 min from Payson, rated 4.7 stars by 619 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sonoran Preserve
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Just 1 hr 38 min from Payson, rated 4.7 stars by 1,790 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Phoenix Mountains Preserve
Phoenix, AZ 85022
Just 1 hr 32 min from Payson, rated 4.6 stars by 255 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Payson
What are the best hiking trails near Payson, AZ?
The best hikes near Payson range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Payson?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Payson offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Payson?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Payson are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Payson?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Payson. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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