Confidence, Care,
and Preparation
Hiking in Arizona is physically challenging and visually stunning. They are a great way to take in the natural beauty that our state has to offer, but they can turn dangerous quickly if you’re not prepared. Even a short hike can become risky without enough water, sun protection, or proper planning.
Safe Steps was created to share simple, thoughtful tips that help every hiker start safe and stay safe. Make your hiking experience a great one, whether you’re local or visiting the great state of Arizona.
Heat exhaustion, dehydration, and getting off track happen frequently. It happens to hikers with all levels of experience. Our mission is to help you hike safely, every time.
Safe Steps
Hiking Tips
Hiking in Arizona is physically challenging and visually stunning. They are a great way to take in the natural beauty that our state has to offer, but they can turn dangerous quickly if you’re not prepared. Even a short hike can become risky without enough water, sun protection, or proper planning.
Heat exhaustion, dehydration, and getting off track happen frequently. It happens to hikers with all levels of experience.
Arizona trails heat up fast. The best time to complete your hike is before 10 a.m., regardless of what time of year it is. If possible, get out at sunrise and remain mindful of how far you’ve gone while also monitoring how hot it’s getting. If you’re sweating in full sun by mid-morning, it’s time to turn around. Heat-related illness affects people of all levels of fitness, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Many local hiking enthusiasts take the summer months off or revert to night group hikes to beat the heat. Proper lighting and gear are required, as is proper hydration.
Do not rely on a phone signal to guide you. This is especially true for those of you visiting us from out of state. Always check the trail map before you go and download it offline. Know how long the hike is, where the tricky sections are, and where you’ll turn back if it gets too hot. Make sure you are aware of your directional position at all times. If you are visiting Arizona from out of state and have never hiked here before, stick to well-maintained and properly marked trails that other hikers are using.
Before you head out, share your plan with someone who’s not going. Tell them where you’re hiking, what time you’re starting, who’s with you, and when you’re expected back. Have a check-in time with others when you’ve completed your hike.
Solitude is nice… some hikers prefer to go it alone. In these cases, personal safety and preparation are critical. Avoid hiking alone in remote areas, be extra sensitive to your condition, surroundings, and your preparation.
Assume your phone might not work, and always have a way out. Trails can shift, weather changes, and emergencies happen. Experienced hikers plan for the “what ifs.”
Smart hiking doesn’t mean overpacking; it means bringing what matters.
Here’s your checklist:
- Plenty of water (yes, more than you think)
- Electrolytes or salty snacks
- Wide-brimmed hat and light clothing
- Sunscreen
- Charged phone (with a backup plan if it dies)
- Good shoes
Community-Driven Initiative
Honoring Chris Dyer
This project was created in memory of Chris Dyer, a kind, thoughtful, and well-prepared hiker who tragically lost his life on an Arizona trail. Chris had water, experience, and a love for the outdoors, but even the most prepared can be caught off guard by the intensity of the desert.
• FOX 10 PHOENIX
• AZ CENTRAL
• @FRIENDSOFTONTO
Safe Steps exists to share what we wish more people knew before heading out: that simple preparation can save lives. This is our way of honoring Chris, by helping others hike with more awareness, more care, and more support.
If you have a story to share or want to partner with us, we’d love to hear from you!
