Cottonwood Trail

No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.

Cottonwood Trail is a 4.2-mile out-and-back hike located in Arizona. The trail features 710 feet of elevation gain, making it a moderately challenging day hike suitable for hikers with basic fitness levels. The out-and-back format means you'll cover the same terrain on your return, totaling 8.4 miles round trip with cumulative elevation gain of 1,420 feet. This trail offers a solid workout with steady elevation gain distributed throughout the route. The out-and-back structure allows you to turn back at any point if needed, making it flexible for different fitness levels and time constraints. You'll experience the same scenic views twice—once on the way out and again on your return descent. Cottonwood Trail is ideal for hikers looking for a moderate half-day adventure without requiring an early morning start or extensive time commitment. The 710-foot elevation gain provides good conditioning benefits while remaining accessible to most experienced recreational hikers.