Arizona Nudist-Friendly Trails
Five Clothing-Optional Hikes in AZ. If you're more of a doer than a lounger, Arizona features an array of hiking options for the clothing-optional.
Nudist hiking spots can usually take place in a national forest, and can often end with a soak in some natural hot springs. Many naturist organizations lead guided hikes for fellow naturists, including Canyon State Naturists, Arizona Wildflowers, and Buff-a-teers.
As the temperatures continue to soar, try hiking to something while hiking in nothing.
Tanque Verde Falls
A four-season destination set in southern Arizona, Tanque Verde Canyon is found just east of the Tucson area. Several trails lead natural trekkers past a series of five waterfalls - the two-stage, 100-foot main falls and several smaller falls in the area. Try the Lower Tanque Verde Falls Trail, Upper Tanque Verde Falls Trail, and the Overlook Trail - also known as the Green Trail, the Blue Trail, and the Red Trail. Tanque Verde Canyon also offers swimming holes, cliff-jumping, geocaching, and of course, excellent nature viewing in the Sonoran Desert.
Verde Hot Springs
Set in the Coconino National Forest near Payson, the Verde Hot Springs is your reward for yet another scenic, clothing-optional Arizona hike. The trail to the 98-degree hot springs -Â found amongst the remains of a former resort -Â is roughly three miles round trip. A multitude of pools are available for suit-optional bathing, as well as several other trails along the Verde River. Overnight accommodations include the Childs Dispersed Camping Area, or cozy hotels and bed and breakfasts in nearby Strawberry, Pine, or Camp Verde.
Sycamore Creek
Set northeast of Phoenix along State Route 87, Sycamore Creek can be a secluded spot for those looking to experience the Tonto National Forest in the buff. Continue along the Bee Line Highway, or Highway 87, until you reach Milepost 212, where you may exit, park, and make your way to the creek. You can hike for as little or long as you'd like along Sycamore Creek as no paths are especially designated as trails. During the spring and summer, more than a few natural pools are wide open for skinny dipping and sunbathing. Head in during the week for a secluded soak, or run into several fellow hikers and bathers during the weekend.
Saddle Mountain
Also best in the spring, fall, and winter, the Saddle Mountain Trail is located in the western Phoenix area in Tonopah - found along Interstate 10. The three-mile, round-trip trek to the Saddle peak and back is filled with more desert landscapes, wildlife views, and plenty of sunshine. Nudist hikers in Arizona are suggested to use the southern trails for a more private adventure.
Kaiser Hot Springs
Set near Wikieup in northern Arizona, Kaiser Hot Springs Trail is best trekked from October to April for a chance to soak in these 100-degree waters. Set along State Route 93, Kaiser Spring Canyon is located south of Interstate 40 - or Historic Route 66 - and roughly one to three hours from Kingman, Prescott, Phoenix, and Flagstaff. The trail to the Kaiser Hot Springs is approximately 1. 5 miles, making it a little more than three miles round-trip.
*While these locations tend to be nudist friendly, they are not legal nudist spots so hike at your own risk.
