Warm weather hikes in Arizona pretty much have to happen at either sunrise or sunset – unless, of course, the trail runs parallel to a body of water. Butcher Jones Trail is a 4.9-mile hike that meanders around the pristine Saguaro Lake, so you can jump in and cool off after getting all sweaty. It’s the perfect fun-in-the-sun adventure for the whole family!
Butcher Jones Trail is a 4.9-mile hike nestled along Saguaro Lake in the Tonto National Forest.
AllTrails/Peter Cohoe It’s perfect for a spontaneous family adventure, with a mild elevation gain of just under 550 feet.
The trail follows the lakefront from start to finish and its sandy path is mere steps away from the pristine waters.
AllTrails/Jose Alatriste Despite being fairly close to Phoenix, this peaceful respite feels like an island paradise.
Scenic overlooks abound, boasting panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding desert landscape.
AllTrails/Bertrand Kaper The stark contrast between the deep blue oasis, which is almost tropical in nature, and the rugged wilderness that lies beyond it is truly incredible to see firsthand.
In the distance, towering mountains seem to dance with the clouds as they stretch up to impossible heights.
AllTrails/Mike Gendreau Depending on what time of year it is, they might even be snowcapped!
On warm and sunny days, the lake is filled with boats, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and families just splashing around and having a good time.
AllTrails/Az Hiker Since the hike isn’t too long, it’s easy to jump in the water and cool off before heading back the other way.
If possible, we recommend embarking on this hike in the early morning or late afternoon - not only because those are the best times to beat the heat, but also because you’ll be in for breathtaking scenes like this.
AllTrails/Mark Fitch There’s just something about an Arizona sunrise or sunset that leaves you in awe of the world.
Please note: a Tonto National Forest day pass is required to hike Butcher Jones Trail.
AllTrails/Tanya Fiori They cost $8 and can be purchased at the nearby Chevron station or any local Circle K.
To learn more about the hike, visit its page on AllTrails.
AllTrails/Peter Cohoe
It’s perfect for a spontaneous family adventure, with a mild elevation gain of just under 550 feet.
AllTrails/Jose Alatriste
Despite being fairly close to Phoenix, this peaceful respite feels like an island paradise.
AllTrails/Bertrand Kaper
The stark contrast between the deep blue oasis, which is almost tropical in nature, and the rugged wilderness that lies beyond it is truly incredible to see firsthand.
AllTrails/Mike Gendreau
Depending on what time of year it is, they might even be snowcapped!
AllTrails/Az Hiker
Since the hike isn’t too long, it’s easy to jump in the water and cool off before heading back the other way.
AllTrails/Mark Fitch
There’s just something about an Arizona sunrise or sunset that leaves you in awe of the world.
AllTrails/Tanya Fiori
They cost $8 and can be purchased at the nearby Chevron station or any local Circle K.
Have you ever hiked Butcher Jones Trail? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments section below! Check out our previous article for another waterfront trail in Arizona that makes for an ideal warm-weather hike.
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Address: Butcher Jones Trail, Arizona 85264, USA
