Looking for some fresh ideas to enjoy this fall? Whether you’re in Tempe, Ahwatukee, or Chandler, there’s no shortage of places to escape for a day packed with fun and nature. The season is just perfect for outdoor excursions—it’s cooler, colors pop, and everything feels a bit more magical without the summer scorch. If you’re daydreaming about weekend getaways Arizona style, with easy access from the East Valley, these day trips from Tempe, Chandler, and Ahwatukee are just the ticket.
Top Day Trips Close to Home
One of the great perks of living in the East Valley is how quickly you can vanish from city life for a while. From Tempe, it’s just a short drive to some classic desert hikes and scenic spots. Papago Park, for example, is a crowd favorite. It’s easy trails around gigantic sandstone formations make for an ideal fall stroll. If you make your way to the “Hole in the Rock,” you get a tiny climb with a huge payoff—stunning views and a chance to catch a breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the desert. It’s one of the easiest ways to soak up the classic Arizona landscape without losing half your day to travel.
From Ahwatukee, you’re similarly lucky with quick access to parks like South Mountain. It’s the largest municipal park in the country, and in fall, its trails are cooler and sometimes rust-colored leaves crunch underfoot, making it perfect for a morning hike or an afternoon picnic. This place ticks all the boxes for those who want fresh air without the hassle of a long drive.
Chandler isn’t left out either. About two hours away, you can head north to Jerome—a quirky little town that’s part old mining ghost town, part artsy community with cafés and kitschy shops. It makes a great day trip from Chandler if you want to mix a little history with your fall adventure.
Nature Fixes Worth the Drive
If you want to stretch your legs a bit farther, some natural wonders near the East Valley make for excellent day trips from Tempe and Chandler. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is a standout. It’s about an hour and 45 minutes from Phoenix, not far for a day trip, and offers a unique hiking experience. The bridge itself is a natural rock formation you can walk under and around, surrounded by forest and a refreshing dip in cooler temperatures compared to the valley floor. Bring your boots and water because the trails can be a bit rugged, but the scenery up close is worth it.
And then there’s Sedona, a classic for anyone craving jaw-dropping views and vibrant fall colors. Less than two hours from East Valley towns, this spot has everything from red-rock hikes to easy walks surrounded by golden aspens and oaks turning all shades of yellow and red. You can take a Pink Jeep Tour for a thrilling overview of the red rock landscapes or explore quiet trails yourself. Sedona’s got that crisp fall vibe that feels like a real escape from the desert heat.
Mountain Time Adventures
Looking to add a bit of mountain air to your weekend getaways, Arizona style? Flagstaff and the Mogollon Rim area are within reach from the East Valley and offer dramatic seasonal changes. Here you can witness towering pines and aspens lighting up in fiery hues. There are campgrounds, scenic overlooks, and plenty of hiking trails tailored for every skill level. For a fall day trip from Chandler or Tempe, this feels like stepping into a different world, especially when the temperatures drop just enough for a cozy sweatshirt.
For those keen on lake views, Saguaro Lake near the Salt River makes for a fun water-based outing close to home. Just about an hour away from Tempe or Chandler, you can paddleboard, kayak, fish, or take a narrated boat tour. The lake is surrounded by typical desert scenery dotted with cacti, and the fall air makes for a comfortable day on the water without the summer’s blazing sun.
East Valley Outdoors at Your Doorstep
Not every day trip needs to involve a long haul out of town. The East Valley is home to plenty of outdoor spots where the fall weather truly shines. San Tan Regional Park, for instance, offers desert trails with easy access from the Ahwatukee area. It’s ideal for hikes, biking, or just taking in the seasonal shift with cacti and desert blooms in their autumn glory.
Then there’s the Riparian Preserve in Gilbert, another neat stop for nature lovers. It’s especially good for birdwatching and gentle walks by a lake framed with towering saguaros. It feels like a little desert oasis and can be your peaceful escape without the crowds or long drives.
Planning Your Fall Escapes
When thinking about day trips from Tempe, Chandler, or Ahwatukee this fall, the key is to pick the right adventure for your mood. Whether that’s chasing sunsets from a rock formation at Papago Park, exploring the artsy vibe of Jerome, or getting lost among the golden leaves of Sedona’s red rocks, the choices are yours. These destinations are all within a few hours’ drive, making them perfect for weekend getaways that Arizona residents love.
And with fall bringing cooler temperatures and fewer bugs, it’s the perfect time to get outdoors. Whether you’re craving a short hike, a scenic drive, or some lakeside calm, the East Valley is a prime jumping-off point into the heart of all things fall. So grab your boots, fill your water bottle, and check out these day trips from Tempe, day trips from Chandler, and day trips from Ahwatukee for a season full of adventure just around the corner.
Source: phoenix.gov, wikipedia.org, jerome.az.gov, azstateparks.com, visitsedona.com
Header Image Source: AI-generated image
