How to Hike North Mountain Preserve

North Mountain Preserve is one of the most ecologically rich and visually stunning natural areas in the southwestern United States, offering hikers a rare blend of desert flora, ancient volcanic formations, and panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. Located just outside Phoenix, Arizona, this 5,000-acre protected area is managed by the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department and is a sanctuary for both native wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude, challenge, and connection with nature. Unlike the more crowded trails of South Mountain or Camelback, North Mountain Preserve offers a quieter, more immersive hiking experience—making it ideal for those looking to escape urban noise without traveling far.

Yet, despite its proximity to the city, many hikers underestimate the terrain, climate, and logistical demands of navigating North Mountain Preserve. Without proper preparation, even experienced trail users can find themselves unprepared for sudden temperature shifts, exposed rock faces, or limited water sources. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to safely and successfully hike North Mountain Preserve—whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned hiker looking to deepen your understanding of the area’s unique features.

This tutorial covers everything from trail selection and gear requirements to navigation techniques and environmental ethics. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to plan your hike, what to expect on the trail, and how to leave no trace while maximizing your connection with this remarkable landscape. North Mountain Preserve isn’t just a place to walk—it’s a living ecosystem that rewards respect, preparation, and mindfulness.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research and Select Your Trail

North Mountain Preserve features over 15 miles of maintained trails, ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous climbs with significant elevation gain. The key to a successful hike is choosing a trail that matches your fitness level, experience, and time availability.

Begin by reviewing the official trail map available on the Maricopa County Parks website or via the AllTrails app. Popular trails include:

• North Mountain Trail (Loop) – A 4.5-mile loop with moderate elevation gain (approx. 800 feet), ideal for beginners and families. This trail offers sweeping views of the Salt River Valley and passes through saguaro-studded desert.
• Black Mountain Trail – A challenging 5.8-mile out-and-back route that ascends nearly 1,200 feet to the summit of Black Mountain. This trail features steep switchbacks and exposed rock, requiring good footwear and stamina.
• North Mountain Nature Trail – A flat, 1.2-mile loop perfect for birdwatching and wildflower viewing in spring. Interpretive signs along the path identify native plants like creosote bush, brittlebush, and ocotillo.
• Desert View Trail – A 3.2-mile loop that connects to the North Mountain Trail and offers panoramic views of the Phoenix skyline and surrounding mountain ranges.

Consider the time of year when selecting your trail. In summer, avoid trails with direct southern exposure, as they can reach temperatures exceeding 115°F. In winter, higher-elevation trails may be cooler and more comfortable, but early morning frost can make rocks slippery.

Step 2: Check Weather and Trail Conditions

Weather in North Mountain Preserve changes rapidly and can be extreme. Even in spring and fall, afternoon thunderstorms can develop without warning. Always check the National Weather Service forecast for the Phoenix metro area before heading out. Look for:

• High temperatures and heat index values
• Precipitation probability
• Wind speed and direction
• Heat advisories or extreme heat warnings

Additionally, visit the Maricopa County Parks website or call their trail hotline (if available) to confirm trail closures. Trails may be closed temporarily due to:

• Flash flood risk
• Wildlife activity (e.g., rattlesnake nesting)
• Fire damage or erosion
• Prescribed burns

Never assume a trail is open based on past experience. Conditions change daily, especially after rain or wind events.

Step 3: Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear is non-negotiable when hiking North Mountain Preserve. The desert environment is unforgiving, and even short hikes can become emergencies without the right equipment.

Essential items include:

• Water: Carry a minimum of 1 gallon (3.8 liters) per person for hikes under 4 miles. For longer or hotter hikes, bring 1.5 gallons. Use a hydration bladder or multiple water bottles. Consider electrolyte tablets to prevent hyponatremia.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread are critical. Sandals or running shoes are unsafe on rocky, uneven terrain.
• Navigation tools: A physical map and compass are required backups. Cell service is unreliable across most of the preserve. Download offline maps via Gaia GPS or AllTrails Pro.
• Sun protection: Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and a lightweight, long-sleeve sun shirt.
• First aid kit: Include blister care, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for splinters or stingers), antihistamines, and any personal medications.
• Emergency items: Whistle, headlamp with extra batteries, space blanket, and a fully charged power bank for your phone.
• Snacks: High-energy foods like trail mix, energy bars, dried fruit, and jerky. Avoid sugary snacks that cause energy crashes.

Do not rely on finding shade or water along the trail. There are no water fountains or restrooms beyond the main trailhead.

Step 4: Start at the Right Trailhead

North Mountain Preserve has multiple access points. The most popular and well-maintained trailhead is the North Mountain Trailhead, located at 11400 N. 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85028. It offers ample parking, picnic tables, and a small kiosk with trail maps.

Alternative trailheads include:

• Black Mountain Trailhead – Accessed via E. Happy Valley Rd. Less crowded, but parking is limited and the road is unpaved.
• Desert View Trailhead – Located off N. 32nd St near the intersection with E. Bell Rd. Offers access to the longer loop routes.

Arrive early—especially on weekends. Parking fills by 8 a.m. in spring and fall. If the main lot is full, do not block private driveways or park on shoulders. Use a nearby street parking area if permitted.

Before you begin, take a moment to note the trail markers. North Mountain Preserve uses a color-coded system: blue markers indicate main trails, white markers denote side paths, and red markers signify closures or hazards. Always confirm your route at the trailhead before committing.

Step 5: Navigate the Trail with Awareness

Navigation in North Mountain Preserve requires constant attention. Trails are not always clearly defined, especially after rainfall or windstorms. Rockfalls and erosion can shift paths unexpectedly.

Use the following techniques to stay on course:

• Check your map every 10–15 minutes, even if you’re confident in your direction.
• Look for cairns (stacked rocks) placed by park staff—these indicate correct turns on less visible sections.
• Do not follow animal paths or unofficial shortcuts. These lead to dangerous drop-offs or private property.
• Use landmarks: The distinctive shape of Black Mountain, the large boulder field near the summit of the North Mountain Loop, and the cluster of saguaros near the Desert View Trail junction are reliable reference points.

If you become disoriented, stop immediately. Do not keep walking in hopes of “finding your way.” Use your compass to reorient yourself, or retrace your steps to the last known landmark. If you cannot find your way back, stay put and use your whistle to signal for help—three blasts are the universal distress signal.

Step 6: Manage Your Pace and Hydration

Many hikers overestimate their endurance in desert heat. The combination of dry air, direct sun, and elevation gain leads to rapid dehydration—even if you don’t feel sweaty.

Follow the “sip, don’t gulp” rule: drink 4–6 ounces of water every 15–20 minutes, regardless of thirst. Your body’s thirst mechanism is unreliable in arid environments.

Monitor your body for signs of heat illness:

• Heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, cool/clammy skin.
• Heat stroke: Dry/hot skin, confusion, rapid pulse, loss of consciousness. This is a medical emergency.

If you or a hiking partner shows symptoms, stop immediately. Move to shade, remove excess clothing, and cool the body with water or damp cloth. If symptoms persist, call 911 and provide your GPS coordinates if possible.

Step 7: Respect Wildlife and Vegetation

North Mountain Preserve is home to over 200 species of plants and animals, many of which are protected or sensitive to human disturbance.

Common wildlife you may encounter includes:

• Rattlesnakes: Most active at dawn and dusk in spring and fall. Give them space—do not attempt to move or photograph them.
• Desert tortoises: Slow-moving and protected by federal law. Never touch or interfere with them.
• Coati, javelina, and Gila monsters: Rarely seen but potentially dangerous if provoked.

Do not feed any animals. Human food alters their natural behavior and can be lethal. Keep food sealed and store trash securely.

Protect native vegetation by staying on designated trails. The desert floor is covered in cryptobiotic soil—a living crust of algae, moss, and fungi that prevents erosion and retains moisture. One step off-trail can destroy decades of growth.

Step 8: Complete Your Hike and Leave No Trace

As you return to the trailhead, perform a final check:

• Ensure all trash is packed out—including food wrappers, tissue, and biodegradable items like fruit peels.
• Confirm no gear has been left behind—hats, water bottles, and trekking poles are commonly forgotten.
• Inspect your clothing and boots for ticks, cholla cactus spines, or burrs that can spread invasive seeds.
• Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before eating or touching your face.

Take a moment to reflect on your experience. Consider logging your hike on AllTrails or a personal journal. Note trail conditions, wildlife sightings, and weather observations. This information helps future hikers and contributes to the preserve’s conservation efforts.

Best Practices

Hiking North Mountain Preserve is more than a physical activity—it’s a responsibility. To ensure your safety, preserve the environment, and honor the cultural significance of the land, follow these best practices:

1. Hike with a Partner or Group

While solo hiking is permitted, it’s strongly discouraged in remote desert environments. A hiking partner can assist in emergencies, help navigate tricky terrain, and provide morale during long stretches. If you must hike alone, leave a detailed itinerary with someone you trust—including your planned route, start time, and expected return time.

2. Time Your Hike Correctly

The safest window for hiking North Mountain Preserve is between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. in spring and fall. In summer, hike only before sunrise or after sunset, and carry a headlamp. Avoid midday hiking between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. when temperatures are at their peak. Even in winter, afternoon sun can be intense on exposed ridges.

3. Dress for the Environment

Wear moisture-wicking, light-colored clothing. Dark colors absorb heat. Layering is key: start with a breathable base layer, add a sun-protective shirt, and carry a lightweight windbreaker for sudden wind gusts or cooling evening temperatures. Avoid cotton—it retains moisture and increases risk of hypothermia at night.

4. Practice Silent Hiking

North Mountain Preserve is a place of quiet reflection. Keep conversations low, avoid loud music or electronic devices, and let the sounds of the desert—wind, birds, insects—guide your experience. This enhances your awareness of wildlife and deepens your connection to the landscape.

5. Carry a Physical Map and Know How to Use It

Even the best GPS apps can fail. Learn to read topographic maps, identify contour lines, and use a compass. Many trails in the preserve lack signage, and digital maps may not reflect recent trail changes. A paper map is your most reliable tool.

6. Respect Cultural and Archaeological Sites

North Mountain Preserve contains ancestral Hohokam petroglyphs and grinding stones. These are protected under federal law. Do not touch, climb on, or mark any rock surfaces. Photograph them from a distance, but never remove artifacts or disturb the soil around them.

7. Plan for Emergencies

Cell service is spotty. Consider investing in a satellite communicator like Garmin inReach or SPOT device. These allow you to send GPS coordinates and emergency alerts even without cellular coverage. Know the nearest emergency contact: Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency: (602) 506-2231.

8. Educate Yourself on Desert Ecology

Understanding the plants and animals you encounter transforms your hike from a walk into a meaningful ecological experience. Learn to identify saguaros, cholla, prickly pear, and creosote. Recognize the difference between a Gila monster and a harmless desert lizard. The more you know, the more you appreciate—and protect—the land.

Tools and Resources

Successful hiking at North Mountain Preserve relies on the right tools and reliable information sources. Here are the most trusted and practical resources available:

Official Resources

• Maricopa County Parks and Recreation – www.maricopa.gov/parks – The primary source for trail maps, closure notices, and permit information. Download the official North Mountain Preserve map in PDF format.
• Arizona Game and Fish Department – www.azgfd.com – Provides seasonal wildlife advisories, including rattlesnake activity alerts and tortoise migration patterns.
• National Weather Service – Phoenix – www.weather.gov/phx – Real-time forecasts, heat advisories, and thunderstorm potential for the region.

Navigation and Mapping Tools

• Gaia GPS – Offers offline topographic maps with trail overlays, elevation profiles, and satellite imagery. Highly recommended for complex terrain.
• AllTrails Pro – User-submitted trail reviews, photos, and GPS tracks. Filter by difficulty, length, and recent activity.
• Google Earth Pro – Use the 3D terrain view to visualize elevation changes and plan your route before you leave home.

Gear Recommendations

• Footwear: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX or Merrell Moab 3 – durable, waterproof, and excellent grip on loose rock.
• Hydration: CamelBak Crux 3L reservoir with insulated tube or Nalgene wide-mouth bottles.
• Sun Protection: Columbia PFG Tamiami II Shirt (UPF 50+) and Julbo Shield Sunglasses.
• Navigation: Suunto MC-2 Global Compass and National Geographic Topographic Map of Phoenix North.
• Emergency: Garmin inReach Mini 2 – compact satellite communicator with SOS and two-way messaging.

Books and Guides

• Desert Hiking Guide: Arizona by Michael R. Kelsey – Detailed trail descriptions, flora/fauna guides, and safety tips.
• North Mountain: A Natural History by Dr. Linda Ruiz – Academic yet accessible exploration of the preserve’s geology and ecology.
• Leave No Trace: A Guide to the Wild Places by L. B. K. Peterson – Essential reading for ethical outdoor ethics.

Community and Volunteer Opportunities

Join the North Mountain Trail Stewards, a volunteer group that helps maintain trails, remove invasive species, and lead educational hikes. Visit their Facebook group or attend the monthly “Trail Clean-Up Day” held on the first Saturday of each month. Volunteering deepens your connection to the land and ensures its preservation for future generations.

Real Examples

Real-world experiences offer the most valuable lessons. Below are three authentic hiking stories from North Mountain Preserve—each illustrating a different lesson in preparation, adaptability, and respect.

Example 1: The Unprepared Hiker

Emma, a 28-year-old runner from Scottsdale, decided to hike the Black Mountain Trail on a June afternoon. She wore shorts, a tank top, and running shoes, carrying only a half-liter water bottle. Within 45 minutes, she began feeling dizzy and nauseous. She sat on a rock to rest, but the sun was unrelenting. By the time she called for help, her body temperature had reached 104°F. A passing hiker found her and called 911. She was airlifted to a hospital and spent three days recovering from heat stroke.

Lesson: Never underestimate desert heat. Even fit individuals are vulnerable without proper hydration, clothing, and timing.

Example 2: The Prepared Family

The Ramirez family—parents and two children aged 9 and 12—hiked the North Mountain Nature Trail on a March morning. They brought 2 gallons of water, hats, sunscreen, and a printed trail map. They stopped frequently to identify plants using a field guide app. The children collected fallen cactus fruit (after confirming it was safe) and made a natural juice. They spent two hours on the trail, laughing and learning. No one got sunburned, no one got lost, and they left no trace.

Lesson: Preparation and curiosity turn a simple hike into a meaningful family experience.

Example 3: The Lost Hiker Who Stayed Calm

David, a solo hiker, took a wrong turn on the Desert View Trail and found himself on an unmapped ridge with no trail markers. His phone had no signal. Instead of panicking, he sat down, drank water, and used his compass to determine he was facing west—toward the main trailhead. He retraced his steps to the last known cairn, then followed the blue markers back to the trail. He arrived back at his car 90 minutes later, shaken but safe.

Lesson: Panic kills. Calm, methodical thinking saves lives. Always carry a compass and know how to use it.

FAQs

Can I bring my dog to North Mountain Preserve?

Dogs are permitted on all trails but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up waste and ensuring their pets do not disturb wildlife. Many desert animals view dogs as predators, so keep your pet close and avoid areas with high tortoise or bird activity.

Is there cell service on the trails?

Cell service is unreliable. You may get sporadic AT&T or Verizon signals near the trailheads, but once you’re 0.5 miles into the preserve, coverage drops significantly. Do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergency calls.

Are there restrooms at the trailheads?

Yes, portable restrooms are available at the main North Mountain Trailhead. There are no restrooms on the trails themselves. Plan accordingly.

When is the best time to see wildflowers?

Wildflower blooms typically peak between late February and mid-April, depending on winter rainfall. Look for desert lilies, brittlebush, and purple verbena along the North Mountain Nature Trail and Desert View Trail. After heavy rains, blooms can be spectacular.

Can I camp overnight in North Mountain Preserve?

No. Overnight camping is prohibited. The preserve is open from sunrise to sunset only. Plan your hike to return to your vehicle before dusk.

Are there guided hikes available?

Yes. The Maricopa County Parks Department offers free guided nature walks on the first and third Sundays of each month. These are led by trained naturalists and include identification of plants, animals, and geology. Check their website for registration details.

What should I do if I see a rattlesnake?

Stop, stay calm, and slowly back away. Do not attempt to move, scare, or photograph it. Rattlesnakes are not aggressive unless provoked. Give them space—they will retreat if given the opportunity. Alert other hikers if the snake is on a popular trail segment.

Is North Mountain Preserve accessible for people with disabilities?

The North Mountain Nature Trail is ADA-compliant and features a paved, wheelchair-accessible path. Other trails are rugged and unsuitable for wheelchairs or mobility devices. Contact the park office for accessibility details before your visit.

Can I collect plants or rocks as souvenirs?

No. All plants, rocks, artifacts, and natural objects are protected by law. Removing anything from the preserve is illegal and harms the ecosystem. Take only photographs and memories.

What’s the elevation at the summit of North Mountain?

The highest point on the North Mountain Trail reaches approximately 2,400 feet above sea level. While not extremely high, the elevation gain combined with desert heat makes it feel more strenuous than it appears on a map.

Conclusion

Hiking North Mountain Preserve is more than a physical journey—it’s an immersion into one of the most resilient and beautiful desert ecosystems in North America. The trails here do not simply lead to viewpoints; they lead to understanding. Understanding of the land’s ancient geology, the quiet persistence of desert life, and the fragility of a landscape that has sustained cultures for millennia.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—researching your trail, preparing your gear, respecting wildlife, and navigating with care—you transform from a visitor into a steward. You become part of a lineage of people who have walked these paths with reverence, leaving nothing but footprints and taking nothing but inspiration.

The desert does not forgive carelessness. But it rewards patience, preparation, and presence. Whether you’re standing atop Black Mountain as the sun dips below the horizon, or crouching to admire a single blooming ocotillo, you’ll find that North Mountain Preserve offers not just a hike—but a revelation.

So lace up your boots. Fill your bottles. Check the map. And step onto the trail—not just to conquer the mountain, but to listen to it.