Rattlesnakes, Scorpions & More: Wildlife Safety Tips for Arizona Hikers

Hiking in Arizona is a dream—sweeping desert vistas, rugged mountain trails, and enough cacti to make you question how anything survives out here. But let’s not forget, this beautiful wilderness comes with some VIP (Very Intimidating Predators). Yes, we’re talking about rattlesnakes, scorpions, and other critters that would love nothing more than for you to respect their personal space.

Before you start panicking and fashioning a suit of armor out of your hiking gear, let’s talk about how to stay safe, what to do if you cross paths with one, and why these creatures actually deserve our appreciation (from a safe distance, of course).

Rattlesnakes: The OG Desert Security Guards

Arizona is home to 15 species of rattlesnakes, and they take their job of controlling rodent populations very seriously. They’re basically nature’s pest control, and for that, we should be grateful. But we also don’t want to accidentally audition for a role in Snakes on a Trail, so here’s what to do:

• If you see one: Don’t channel your inner Steve Irwin. Stop, slowly back away, and let the snake do its thing. They don’t chase people, despite what that one guy at the bar told you.
• If you hear one: That rattling sound is nature’s way of saying, “Hey, you’re in my space.” Freeze, assess where the snake is, and back away calmly. No sudden movements. No high-pitched screaming (but we won’t judge).

If you get bitten: First, don’t panic—easier said than done when your leg is having a moment with a venomous reptile. Get to a hospital ASAP, keep the bite below heart level, and avoid any cowboy-movie nonsense like sucking out the venom or tying a tourniquet. Modern medicine exists for a reason. Never try to kill or capture the snake, medical professionals don’t need it to treat your bite.

Scorpions: Nature’s Tiny Nightmares

Scorpions are the desert’s little horror movie extras. Most stings won’t send you running to the ER, but the Arizona bark scorpion is the exception—it’s got a venomous sting that can make you feel like you just shook hands with lightning.

• If you see one: Leave it alone. They’re not aggressive but will defend themselves if they feel threatened.
• If you get stung: Wash the area, apply a cool compress, and take some pain relievers. If symptoms get serious—numbness, trouble breathing, or your arm suddenly feeling like it’s auditioning for a zombie movie—get medical help.

Fun fact: Scorpions glow under UV light. So if you ever want to host the world’s creepiest party, grab a blacklight and see how many of these little guys are hanging out nearby. (On second thought, maybe don’t.)

Other Wildlife You Might Meet

In addition to snakes and scorpions, you might come across other fascinating wildlife—and by fascinating, we mean creatures you definitely don’t want to surprise, feed, or get too cozy with. From aloof predators to grumpy pig-relatives and venomous lizards, here’s how to keep your desert encounters safe (and drama-free):

• Coyotes & Bobcats: They’re like that cool, aloof neighbor who doesn’t really care about you. If they get too close, wave your arms, make noise, and remind them you’re not on the menu.
• Javelinas: These pig-like creatures travel in groups and have very strong opinions about their personal space. Give them a wide berth and don’t feed them, unless you want an angry herd following you.
• Gila Monsters: Venomous, slow-moving, and not interested in you. If you see one, appreciate the prehistoric vibes from afar.

Why These Creatures Matter

Look, we get it—rattlesnakes, scorpions, and other desert dwellers can be terrifying. But they also play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Rattlesnakes keep rodent populations in check, scorpions are nature’s exterminators, and javelinas help with seed dispersal. They’re not villains; they’re just trying to survive in the harsh desert landscape, just like us (except they don’t have REI memberships.)

Final Survival Tips

✔ Stay alert and watch where you step.
✔ Don’t stick your hands in shady crevices (literal or metaphorical).
✔ Keep a first-aid kit on hand.
✔ Respect wildlife and give them space.

Arizona’s trails are breathtaking, and with a little knowledge, you can enjoy them safely while coexisting with the creatures that call them home. Have a wild encounter story? Share it in the comments—bonus points if it involves a dramatic escape (or a scorpion glow party).

Additional Resources

Stay safe on the trail with these blog posts:

• The Hiking Ten Essentials List
• 8 Tips for Summer Hiking in the Desert
• A Wine Hiker’s Emergency Survival Kit for the Outdoors
• 7 Essential Tips for Hiking with Your Dog

Anati Zubia

Phoenix Area (AZ) Ambassador