Hidden Gems: Arizona Hiking Trails Off the Beaten Path

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In this episode of “Trail Mix’d,” we take you through some of Arizona’s greatest hidden gems. In a state full of famous hiking spots, it’s easy to overlook some of the more unknown paths, but join Jayarr as he shows us how truly underrated these spots are. From deep underground caves to a marshy lake, the biodiversity of these trails is stunning and exciting as you discover some of our state’s best-kept secrets.

First, we visit the Lava River Cave Trail, a trail north of Flagstaff that gives you an adventurous look at the natural cave structures throughout the area, the most notable of which is the Lava River Cave.

 

The path to the cave takes you through the pine tree forest, bringing you to the cave entrance. Exploring caves can be dangerous, so we spoke with an expert about the safety tips you’ll need to venture into cave systems.

During winter, the cave has beautiful ice structures you can observe, and the cave features the path of the lava that created it while also giving you the adrenaline rush of exploring underground.

Next, we head to the top of a mountain to see a fire lookout tower and a hidden lake at the Lake Mountain Trail.

 

The Lake Mountain Trail is the most remote we’ve hiked all season and features a hidden lake within the trek along the mountaintop. The isolation of the trail creates a peaceful and serene experience that can help clear your mind as you explore this path.

The marshy lake is bursting with life, from vegetation growing throughout it to the gangs of frogs that reside in the water. The hike up to the lake is steep but is worth the adventure as you discover this hidden gem in the mountains. Onward, you arrive at the fire lookout tower, a lookout that helps keep our forests safe.

Trail: Lava River Cave Trail

Difficulty: Moderately challenging, bring a flashlight!

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Trail: Lake Mountain Trail

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Pet friendly: Yes

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