If you’re the kind of person who’s already done it all in Phoenix, and you’re itching for something that feels bigger than the same loop on repeat, it’s time to level up your game.
This list is your upgrade path. Here are 10 Arizona day trips built for adrenaline junkies who want their weekends to feel legendary, not predictable.
1. Skydive Arizona in Eloy — The #1 Adrenaline Day Trip
We’re admittedly biased, but we’ve built a business in skydiving based on our passion and we want to share it with you.
Skydive Arizona sits right between Phoenix and Tucson, and we’ve spent decades building this stretch of desert into the best skydiving resort in the world. We’ve got grass landing areas, world record events—even a restaurant and pool!
But calling it a resort is only half the story. Skydivers from all over the world travel here for the community and coaching culture — this is a place where beginners, weekend warriors, and world‑class athletes share the same sky. SDAZ has hosted dozens of competitions, most recently the World Cup of Canopy Piloting and the United States Parachute Association Nationals.
At Skydive Arizona, you’re not just buying a jump; you’re stepping into the heartbeat of the sport. Expect a smooth, professional check‑in, and an experience that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
What you’ll do
A tandem skydive from 13,000 feet with a USPA‑certified instructor. The ride to altitude is smooth, the door opens, and suddenly you’re looking at the whole desert spread out below you. Freefall is the main event — loud, fast, and unapologetically thrilling — followed by a canopy ride that lets you actually soak in how massive Arizona looks from above.
Drive time
- Downtown Phoenix: ~1 hr 10 min
- Tempe / ASU: ~1 hr
- Scottsdale: ~1 hr 20 min
- Chandler / Gilbert / Mesa: ~1 hr
What it costs
Tandem skydives are $259 (with military/student discounts at $239). Add photos ($115), video ($115), or the combo ($129).
Logistics
- Morning slots = cooler temps and smoother conditions.
- Wear comfy clothes and closed-toe shoes.
- If you’re doing it, get the photo/video combo — it’s the “main character” package. This is a jump you’ll want to remember for a lifetime.
2. Superstition Mountains / Lost Dutchman State Park
East of Phoenix, near Apache Junction sit the Superstition Mountains. (Yes, you can see them from freefall!). Their supposedly gold-rich, jagged peaks jut out from the desert floor and present a healthy hike for those who are willing to brave a bit of spooky history.
The Superstitions are home to the “Lost Dutchman Gold Mine”—a still hidden and disputed feature that has drawn millions to the area. Some believe that there’s “gold in them there hills” and others believe it was a Peralta family gold deposit, not a mine.
What you’ll do
You’ll pick a route that matches your appetite for pain. Flatiron via Siphon Draw is the classic suffer-fest: steep scrambling, big exposure, and a summit view that’s worth it. Peralta to Fremont Saddle is a slightly more moderate option, still delivering massive scenery and a strong “why do I live anywhere else” payoff.
Drive time
- Downtown Phoenix / Tempe: ~50–60 min
- Scottsdale: ~1 hr 05 min
- East Valley: ~35–50 min
What it costs
Mostly free besides day-use parking/entry (generally $10–$20 per vehicle depending on area/season).
Logistics
- Start early — the hike comes with a healthy dose of heat!
- Bring water (more than you think you need).
- Hiking shoes or boots. A hat’s a good idea.
3. Salt River Canyon Adventure
The Salt River is one of the coolest “wait, this is Arizona?” days you can do near Phoenix. You get cold water cutting through desert canyon scenery, plus a legit chance of seeing wild horses hanging on the banks. It can be chill or chaotic depending on your crew, but either way it’s one of the best ways to cool down in the scorching Arizona summers.
What you’ll do
You’ll float or paddle downstream through the Tonto National Forest corridor. Tubing gives you the classic desert-river party vibe, while kayaking or SUP turns it into a legit upper-body and balance day. The best version of this trip? Stack some paddling with a short hike nearby so you finish feeling like you used the day instead of just spent it.
Drive time
- Downtown Phoenix / Tempe: ~45–55 min
- Scottsdale: ~55–65 min
- East Valley: ~35–45 min
What it costs
Tube + shuttle packages usually start around $30 per person; bring your own craft and it’s mostly parking/passes.
Logistics
- Go earlier in the day for fewer crowds.
- Strap your gear down — the river takes souvenirs.
- Bring sunscreen and a dry bag.
4. Sedona & Red Rock State Park
Sedona is basically the most photographed place in Arizona—it’s what tourists think of when they picture themselves going on an outdoor Phoenix adventure.
What you’ll do
Arrow jeep tours for a bumpy off-road tour experience, Devil’s Bridge for the classic “over the span” photo , or mountain bike trails like Hiline or Slim Shady if you’re into it. There’s plenty to do in the surrounding areas, including tubing and out-of-the-tourist-trap hikes.
Drive time
- Phoenix / Tempe: ~2 hrs
- Scottsdale: ~2 hr 10 min
- East Valley: ~2 hr 15 min
What it costs
Jeep tours typically run about $98–$125 per person. Hiking is free aside from parking; MTB rentals vary by shop/bike.
Logistics
- Sunrise missions beat the crowds.
- Bring layers — it’s cooler than Phoenix.
- Park early or plan to shuttle.
5. Canyon Lake & Apache Trail — Cliff Roads and Jet Skis
Probably Arizona’s most scenic drive, the Apache Trail runs through the Superstitions, from Apache Junction past Canyon Lake to Roosevelt Lake. The long, single-lane road has no guardrails and you’ll have to pull over for oncoming traffic — and there are occasional white-knuckle sections!
Brave the course and you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views in Arizona: the Canyon Lake Vista, the Roosevelt Bridge, and the Boulder Canyon trailhead. And there’s plenty to do at the Canyon Lake Marina and Campground.
What you’ll do
You’ll drive northeast from Apache Junction, cruise the lake’s coves, and rent a jet ski or boat to turn the afternoon into a speed session. If you want the full vibe, stop in Tortilla Flat afterward to visit the museum and Saloon with an old-time feel.
Drive time
- Phoenix / Tempe: ~1 hr 30–40 min
- Scottsdale: ~1 hr 45 min
- East Valley: ~1 hr 10–25 min
What it costs
Jet skis are typically around $120–$125 per hour (often with multi-hour minimums).
Logistics
- Early morning water is calmer.
- Dry bag for phones/keys.
- Pack snacks and water — options are sparse if you take the whole drive
6. Prescott / Watson Lake + Granite Dells
The Granite Dells outside Prescott look like a Dr. Seuss landscape made of giant smooth boulders. Watson Lake snakes through them in tight channels, which makes it one of the best outdoor combo days in the state. Expect a cooler climate and a ton of fun.
What you’ll do
Kayak through narrow passages between boulders, then hop out to scramble around the Dells like a giant natural jungle gym. It’s part water adventure, part boulder playground, and it scales to whatever intensity you want.
Drive time
- Phoenix / Tempe: ~2 hrs
- Scottsdale: ~2 hr 10 min
- East Valley: ~2 hr 20 min
What it costs
Kayak rentals usually run about $25 for a single and $35+ for tandems.
Logistics
- Spring/fall temps are perfect.
- Wear shoes you can get wet and still hike in.
- Sunset here is amazing!
7. Jerome & Mingus Mountain
Jerome is a cliffside mining ghost town with a unique history and great roadways for off-highway vehicles. The drive up Mingus Mountain is half the fun. Tight switchbacks, steep climbs, and views that keep expanding the higher you go. It’s a great day if you want adventure without committing to a full wilderness mission.
What you’ll do
Rip up the climb into town, explore the old mining vibe, then add a short Mingus hike or overlook stop to make it feel properly outdoorsy. It’s not a “sweat all day” trip, but it’s still a solid send for anyone who likes altitude, history, and a little weirdness.
Drive time
- Phoenix / Tempe: ~2 hrs
- Scottsdale: ~2 hr 15 min
- East Valley: ~2 hr 20–30 min
What it costs
Town exploring is free; most museums/attractions run around $10 per adult.
Logistics
- Cooler than Phoenix, especially evenings.
- The road is twisty — plan accordingly if your crew gets carsick.
- Good walking shoes for steep streets.
8. Flagstaff & Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort
Flagstaff is the escape from Phoenix when you want fresh mountain air, the smell of pine—and actual seasons. Even in summer it feels like a different state, and in winter it becomes Arizona’s home base for skiing. Expect cooler temps, bigger climbs, and the kind of trails that remind you what oxygen is. Take the lift up to the peak for some cool mountain air.
What you’ll do
Winter days are for Snowbowl ski laps. Outside winter, Mt. Elden is the classic steep hike/trail-run that gets your heart revving and pays you back with a panoramic view of Northern Arizona.
Drive time
- Phoenix / Tempe: ~2 hr 20 min
- Scottsdale: ~2 hr 30 min
- East Valley: ~2 hr 40 min
What it costs
Snowbowl tickets vary wildly by date and buy-ahead timing (roughly $19 to $300+). Hiking is low-cost.
Logistics
- Bring layers no matter the season.
- Check conditions in winter before you drive up.
- Start early on Elden to avoid storms/heat.
9. Mogollon Rim in Payson
The Mogollon Rim is a popular recreation area along the southern edge of the Colorado plateau. That means fishing, camping, forest trails, and a climate that lets you push hard without sweating your butt off. Think: elevation, shade, and great fishing and camping.
What you’ll do
H rim-edge hikes to overlooks that feel like standing on the lip of the world, or spend the day on the Payson MTB networks. The rim lakes are a great spot to fish and camp.
Drive time
- Phoenix / Tempe: ~2 hrs
- Scottsdale: ~2 hr 10 min
- East Valley: ~1 hr 45–55 min
What it costs
Mostly free besides parking/passes; MTB rentals run roughly $60–$120/day.
Logistics
- Summer stays cooler than the Valley.
- Pack a light jacket for mornings.
- Great fall colors in October.
10) Grand Canyon (South Rim)
The Grand Canyon is far enough to feel like a true expedition, but close enough for a once-in-a-while day mission. Photos won’t prepare you for how deep and endless the Grand Canyon feels. A ton of exposure and vistas that go for miles and miles.
What you’ll do
You’ll walk the rim, grab a safe hike segment, and just soak in the kind of natural spectacle that makes your inbox problems seem stupid. If you time it right, sunrise or sunset on the rim is a top-tier Arizona memory.
Drive time
- Phoenix / Tempe: ~3.5–4 hrs
- Scottsdale: ~3 hr 45 min
- East Valley: ~4 hrs
What it costs
Park entry is about $35 per vehicle (good for seven days).
Logistics
- Leave early. Like, actually early.
- Bring food/water so you don’t waste time in lines.
- Respect heat and distance if you hike below the rim.
