My perfect first date is a hike. These hikes near Phoenix (and Scottsdale, Tempe, etc.) are suitable for friends, couples, first dates, and more! In my opinion, the best hiking trails for a date are not too strenuous or remote. However, these are still hiking dates, not walk-in-the-park dates, so prepare to break a sweat!
This post is inspired by my partner who took me hiking for our first dates. Climbing Battleship Mountain on our second date was a bold idea, but it was the start of a beautiful relationship and many more adventures.
*Given my adventurous nature, my idea of a “casual” hike may be different from yours!
I do not endorse meeting a stranger from a dating app for a hike. If this is a first date, I hope it’s with someone you have already met in real life or have mutual friends with.
North Mountain
1.5 miles, 700 ft elevation
What’s more romantic than a sunset overlooking the city? If the date is going well, grab drinks or a bite in Phoenix after your hike. North Mountain is very steep but easier than other peaks around the city (like Camelback and Piestewa). I hope you’ve been using the stair master! This trail is super popular, so you’re guaranteed witnesses for a first date.
There are multiple routes up North Mountain; you can do it out-and-back or as a loop. The North Mountain National Trail is rocky until it connects with the paved service road up to the cell tower.
Pinnacle Peak
4 miles, 1000 ft elevation
Pinnacle Peak Trail is maintained as pristinely as the North Scottsdale golf courses it overlooks. Hike in the morning, and, if it goes well, grab a post-hike coffee or brunch in North Scottsdale.
This trail is a lovely slice of nature in the city, and it’s steep enough to get your blood pumping. The high point is in the middle of the trail, so you may want to turn back before descending the switchbacks for a 3-mile roundtrip.
Tom’s Thumb
4 miles, 1200 ft elevation
Located in McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Tom’s Thumb feels somewhat isolated from the city. The trail is well-maintained and beautiful. This is definitely a sunset hike; the boulders atop the ridge glow at golden hour. The hike up is steep, so you need to be in pretty good shape to hold a conversation.
Butcher Jones
6 miles, 600 ft elevation
This trail is a classic! Butcher Jones Trail meanders along Saguaro Lake on the Salt River with gorgeous views of the Four Peaks. Six miles is a little long for a “casual” hike, but you could turn back at any point. There are great views the entire way.
Butcher Jones Recreation Area has a beach, so you could cool off with a swim after your hike.
Gateway Loop
4.5 miles, 700 ft elevation
Gateway Loop Trail has lots of saguaro cacti and great views of the McDowell peaks. In my opinion, this loop is the perfect “casual” date hike. The elevation gain is moderate, and it should take a couple hours.
This trail is great morning or evening, and there are plenty of cafes or restaurants nearby in North Scottsdale.
I also have a series on TikTok where I try hikes recommended by men on Hinge (compiled when I was single), so check that out @LatitudesWithLucy on TikTok!
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