5 heat-smart things to do in Phoenix: Sunrise hikes, balloons, and river paddling
Start your day with a Camelback Mountain sunrise, soar in a hot air balloon, summit Piestewa Peak, stroll Papago’s red rocks, and catch golden-hour mountain biking at South Mountain.
Edited by Kaitlyn Dreyling | December 11, 2025
Phoenix rewards early risers and sunset chasers with outdoor adventures built around the desert’s rhythms. Mornings start cool and golden, perfect for hiking Camelback Mountain or catching a sunrise balloon flight. As midday heat rises, swap summits for shaded strolls or river paddling, then return to the trails as the sun dips low for golden-hour mountain biking at South Mountain. This guide maps out heat-smart ways to explore Phoenix hiking trails, paddling, and more, so you can maximize every moment.
1. Sunrise on Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain is Phoenix’s signature sunrise challenge, with two distinct summit routes. Echo Canyon is steeper and more technical, featuring rocky scrambles and a panoramic reward at the top. Cholla Trail offers a longer, sustained climb with sweeping desert views, but is still rated as a difficult trail. Both trails fill quickly, so arrive before dawn and consider a rideshare to beat limited parking. Carry at least two liters of water, electrolytes, extra snacks, and sun protection. Also check city heat restriction days, as trails may close from 8 am to 5 pm during extreme heat. If conditions change, pivot to nearby Piestewa Peak for a strong alternative. Arizona Biltmore, LXR Hotels & Resorts is your luxury base for early starts, with lush gardens, a restorative spa, and inventive dining at the hotel’s five on-site bars and restaurants to recharge after your hike.
2. Soar at dawn in a hot air balloon
Phoenix’s sunrise balloon rides reveal desert colors and mountain silhouettes in the cool morning air. Most flights launch just after sunrise, so check-in times can vary, with flight durations of about one hour. The best season is fall through spring, when temperatures are typically mild and winds are predictable. Dress in layers, wear closedtoe shoes, and bring water. Sunset flights are available seasonally, but sunrise is the surest bet. After your flight, relax at Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort, set in the North Mountain foothills with seven pools, Tocaloma Spa & Salon, and panoramic valley views that extend the magic of your morning adventure.
3. Summit Piestewa Peak without the crowds
Piestewa Peak’s summit trail is a favorite among locals for steady elevation gain and sweeping city views. Trail hours run from 5 am to 11 pm, making pre-dawn starts and golden-hour descents accessible year-round. Hydrate well, bring electrolytes, and enjoy quieter moments when Camelback Mountain parking fills or heat restrictions apply. Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak is your central base, offering spacious suites, a water park for midday cooldowns, and easy access to trailheads for sunrise departures.
4. Quick-hit red rocks at Papago Park
Papago Park’s iconic red buttes and short, scenic trails are ideal for sunrise or sunset strolls, especially during the hottest parts of the day. The easy loops wind through desert gardens and past photogenic rock formations, making it a favorite for families and casual hikers. Hydrate, apply sun protection, and pair your walk with nearby attractions in the East Valley like the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden. Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix/Tempe ASU Area is your convenient launchpad, with comfortable rooms, on-site dining, and easy parking for early or late-day adventures.
5. Golden-hour mountain biking at South Mountain
South Mountain Park and Preserve’s multi-use trails invite mountain bikers of all levels to catch golden-hour rides as the desert cools. Choose beginner, intermediate, or advanced routes, and respect trail etiquette for hikers and equestrians. Start late in the day, pack hydration and lights for dusk returns, and check for heat restrictions on extreme days. Hilton Phoenix Airport is your airport-area hub, with modern rooms, a fitness center, and swift access to South Mountain trailheads for sunset rides.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
Save up to 25% during The Hilton Sale
Whether you’re craving a cozy city break or the thrill of somewhere new, find the perfect holiday stay in top destinations across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and more. Book November 5 through December 15, 2025.
Explore more in Arizona
Girls’ trip to Arizona: Fun things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale
Plan the perfect getaway with Phoenix’s best spas, nightlife, brunch spots, and desert adventures.
Explore the Valley of the Sun from the best hotels in Phoenix
There’s no better place for a springtime escape than Phoenix, Arizona’s urban heart and the perfect outdoor adventure destination.
The Perfect Getaway: A couple’s weekend in Phoenix
Wintry weather throughout much of the country means it is a great time to plan a cozy getaway for you and your partner. Discover everything Phoenix has to offer for couples.
Visit Phoenix for a fun-filled vacation
Sports, hiking, and tasty cuisine await you in Phoenix.
Read more:
Find travel inspiration