How to Hike South Mountain Trails

South Mountain Park & Preserve, located in Phoenix, Arizona, is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, spanning over 16,000 acres and offering more than 50 miles of hiking trails. Whether you're a local resident seeking weekend solitude or a visitor drawn to the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert, hiking South Mountain Trails provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience desert flora, dramatic rock formations, panoramic city views, and a rich cultural history—all within the boundaries of a major metropolitan area. Unlike many national parks that require long drives and extensive planning, South Mountain is accessible, diverse, and uniquely suited for hikers of all experience levels. This guide offers a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to safely and enjoyably navigating South Mountain’s most popular and rewarding trails. From preparation and navigation to trail etiquette and environmental stewardship, this tutorial ensures you gain not just physical endurance, but a deeper connection with the landscape.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research Your Trail Options

Before lacing up your boots, take time to understand the variety of trails available. South Mountain Park features trails ranging from easy, family-friendly paths to strenuous, technical climbs. The most popular routes include the Dobbins Lookout Trail, the Seven Springs Trail, the South Mountain Trail (also known as the “Main Trail”), and the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail. Each offers different elevations, distances, and views.

Start by visiting the official South Mountain Park website or trusted third-party platforms like AllTrails or Hiking Project. Filter trails by difficulty, length, elevation gain, and user reviews. Pay attention to trail conditions reported by recent hikers—especially after monsoon season, when washes may be flooded or rocks may be loose.

For beginners, consider starting with the Highland View Trail (1.6 miles round trip, 250 ft elevation gain), which offers gentle slopes and sweeping views of the Phoenix skyline without requiring technical skill. Intermediate hikers might choose the Dobbins Lookout Trail (3.8 miles round trip, 1,000 ft elevation gain), known for its rewarding 360-degree vista from the summit. Advanced hikers should tackle the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail (2.3 miles round trip, 1,200 ft elevation gain), a steep, rocky ascent with exposed sections that demand focus and stamina.

2. Plan Your Timing

Timing is critical when hiking in the Sonoran Desert. Temperatures in Phoenix regularly exceed 100°F from May through September, making midday hikes dangerous—even lethal. The safest window for hiking South Mountain is between late October and early April, when daytime temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F.

Always start your hike before 8 a.m. to avoid the midday heat. Even in winter, the sun can be intense, and dehydration occurs faster than many realize. If you must hike during warmer months, choose shaded trails like the Seven Springs Trail or Butterfly Trail, which offer more tree cover and are less exposed. Never hike alone in extreme heat, and always carry more water than you think you’ll need.

Check the local weather forecast the night before. Monsoon season (July–September) brings sudden thunderstorms that can trigger flash floods in desert washes. Avoid trails that cross dry creek beds—such as the Mountain View Trail or Highland View Connector—during or immediately after rain. Lightning is also a serious risk on exposed ridgelines like Dobbins Lookout.

3. Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear is non-negotiable. Unlike urban trails, South Mountain’s terrain is remote and lacks consistent cell service. Your pack should include:

• Water: Minimum of 1 gallon (3.8 liters) per person for a 3–5 mile hike. Consider a hydration bladder for easy sipping.
• Electrolytes: Salt tablets or electrolyte powder to prevent cramping and heat exhaustion.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners with aggressive treads. Sandals and sneakers are inadequate on rocky, uneven terrain.
• Navigation: Download offline maps on Gaia GPS or AllTrails. GPS signals can be unreliable in deep canyons.
• Head covering and sunglasses: Wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses protect against sunstroke and eye damage.
• Sunscreen: SPF 50+, reapplied every two hours. Desert sun reflects off rocks and sand, intensifying exposure.
• First aid kit: Include blister care, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for cactus spines), and an emergency blanket.
• Whistle and flashlight: Essential for signaling if lost or injured. A headlamp is preferable for low-light conditions.
• Lightweight rain shell: Even in dry seasons, sudden storms can roll in.

Avoid carrying unnecessary items. A heavy pack increases fatigue and risk of injury. Stick to the essentials and prioritize hydration and navigation.

4. Start at a Designated Trailhead

South Mountain has over 20 trailheads, each with parking, restrooms, and trail maps. Popular entry points include the Highland Vista Trailhead, Gate 13 (Piestewa Peak), Gate 8 (Dobbins Lookout), and Gate 2 (Seven Springs). Always begin your hike at an official trailhead—never from roadside pullouts or unauthorized access points.

At the trailhead, study the posted map. Note your route, estimated time, and any junctions where you might turn. Take a photo of the map with your phone (offline) as a backup. Many hikers get disoriented at intersections, especially on the South Mountain Trail, which overlaps with multiple side paths.

Sign the trail register if available. This helps rangers track hiker movements in case of emergency. Even if registration is optional, it’s a responsible practice.

5. Follow Trail Markers and Stay on Designated Paths

South Mountain trails are generally well-marked with painted rock cairns, metal signs, and carved wooden posts. However, vegetation can obscure markers, especially after winter rains or during high winds. Always look ahead for the next marker before proceeding.

Never cut switchbacks or create your own path. Erosion from unauthorized trails damages fragile desert soil and disrupts native plant life. The Sonoran Desert ecosystem recovers extremely slowly—sometimes taking decades to heal from a single footstep.

At junctions, pause and confirm your route. For example, on the Dobbins Lookout Trail, the path splits near the halfway point: left leads to the summit, right connects to the Arizona Trail. Choose carefully. Use your GPS app to verify your location before continuing.

6. Monitor Your Physical Condition

Altitude in South Mountain ranges from 1,200 to 2,300 feet—modest, but enough to affect those unaccustomed to desert environments. Signs of heat illness include dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, confusion, and cessation of sweating. If you or a companion exhibits these symptoms, stop immediately.

Find shade. Rest. Sip water slowly. Do not drink large amounts at once—this can cause hyponatremia (low sodium). If symptoms persist, call 911. Even if you feel fine, monitor your pace. Many hikers push too hard early and collapse later. Walk at a conversational pace: if you can’t speak in full sentences, you’re going too fast.

Pay attention to your feet. Blisters are the

1 reason hikers abandon trails. Wear moisture-wicking socks and consider applying moleskin or blister pads before starting. Change socks if they become damp from sweat.

7. Respect Wildlife and Vegetation

South Mountain is home to desert bighorn sheep, Gila monsters, coyotes, javelinas, rattlesnakes, and over 400 species of plants. Observe from a distance. Never feed or approach animals. Rattlesnakes are most active at dawn and dusk—they will not chase you, but will strike if startled. If you see one, stop, back away slowly, and give it space. Do not attempt to move or kill it.

Protect the saguaros, ocotillos, and creosote bushes. These plants grow slowly and are protected by law. Never carve into bark, break branches, or pick flowers. Even seemingly harmless actions like stepping on creosote can kill entire root systems.

Use established campsites if overnighting. Camping is permitted in designated areas only. Leave no trace: pack out all trash, including food wrappers, toilet paper, and fruit peels.

8. Descend Safely and Complete Your Hike

Descending can be more dangerous than ascending. Knees absorb significant impact on steep slopes. Use trekking poles if you have them—they reduce strain and improve balance. Walk deliberately. Watch for loose scree and crumbling rock edges.

As you near the trailhead, take a moment to reflect. Did you stay on the trail? Did you carry out everything you brought in? Did you respect wildlife and leave the environment as you found it?

Hydrate fully after your hike. Eat a snack with protein and carbohydrates to replenish energy. Check your body for ticks, cactus spines, or insect bites. Shower and wash your clothes to remove desert dust and potential allergens.

Best Practices

1. Hike with a Buddy

While solo hiking is possible on well-traveled South Mountain trails, it’s strongly discouraged, especially for beginners. A partner can assist in emergencies, provide motivation, and help with navigation. If you must hike alone, inform someone of your planned route and expected return time. Use a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger like Garmin inReach if venturing into remote areas.

2. Leave No Trace Principles

Adhere to the seven Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan ahead and prepare.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
3. Dispose of waste properly.
4. Leave what you find.
5. Minimize campfire impacts.
6. Respect wildlife.
7. Be considerate of other visitors.

Carry a small trash bag for your own waste and, if possible, pick up litter left by others. Every plastic bottle or chip bag removed helps preserve the desert’s natural beauty.

3. Avoid Peak Hours on Weekends

Weekend mornings at Piestewa Peak and Dobbins Lookout can be crowded, with parking filling by 7 a.m. To avoid congestion and enjoy solitude, hike on weekdays or arrive before sunrise. You’ll also experience cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.

4. Know Your Limits

Don’t compare your pace to others. South Mountain is not a race. Many trails are deceptively steep and long. If you feel fatigued, turn back. There’s no shame in not reaching the summit. The goal is to return safely, not to check a box.

5. Educate Yourself on Desert Ecology

Understanding the desert enhances your experience. Learn to identify common plants like the saguaro cactus (which can live over 200 years), the brittlebush (which blooms after rain), and the paloverde tree (which photosynthesizes through its green bark). Recognizing these species helps you appreciate the resilience of life in arid environments.

6. Respect Cultural and Historical Sites

South Mountain contains ancient Hohokam petroglyphs and archaeological sites. These are protected by federal law. Do not touch, climb on, or mark rock art. Photograph only from a distance. If you discover something new, report it to the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department—not social media.

7. Stay on Marked Trails During Low Visibility

At dusk or during rare fog events, trails can become disorienting. Stick to the main path. Do not attempt to find shortcuts or explore side canyons. Use your headlamp and GPS to navigate back to the trailhead. If you become lost, stay put. Signal with your whistle or flashlight. Rangers conduct regular patrols, especially on popular routes.

Tools and Resources

1. Recommended Apps

• AllTrails: Offers detailed trail maps, user reviews, elevation profiles, and photos. Download offline maps before entering the park.
• Gaia GPS: Superior for off-grid navigation with topographic layers. Ideal for technical trails like the Arizona Trail segments within South Mountain.
• Desert Navigator: A specialized app developed by Arizona hikers, featuring real-time trail conditions and seasonal alerts.
• Weather Underground: Provides hyperlocal forecasts for Phoenix and mountain microclimates.

2. Official Resources

• South Mountain Park & Preserve Official Website: phoenix.gov/parks/southmountain — Updated trail closures, safety alerts, and event calendars.
• Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department: Offers free ranger-led hikes, educational brochures, and volunteer opportunities.
• Arizona Trail Association: Provides information on long-distance segments that cross South Mountain.

3. Physical Resources

• Trail Maps: Pick up a free printed map at any trailhead or visitor center. The City of Phoenix publishes an annual trail guide with difficulty ratings and estimated times.
• Books: “Hiking Arizona’s Geology” by Ivo Lucchitta and “Desert Hiking: A Guide to the Southwest” by Steve Bly offer geological context and historical insights.
• Guidebooks: “Day Hikes Around Phoenix” by Mike White includes detailed descriptions of South Mountain trails with photos and tips.

4. Gear Recommendations

• Footwear: Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX, Merrell Moab 3, or Hoka Speedgoat 5.
• Hydration: CamelBak Crux 3L Reservoir or Platypus SoftBottle.
• Navigation: Garmin inReach Mini 2 for satellite messaging and SOS.
• Protection: Columbia Bugaboo II Long Sleeve Shirt (UPF 50+), Buff UV Neck Gaiter, and Oakley Holbrook sunglasses.
• First Aid: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7.

5. Community and Volunteer Networks

Join local hiking groups like the Phoenix Hiking Club or Arizona Trailblazers on Facebook. These communities share real-time trail conditions, organize group hikes, and participate in trail maintenance. Volunteering for a trail cleanup or signage project deepens your connection to the land and helps ensure future access for others.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Hiker — Maria’s Dobbins Lookout Experience

Maria, a 32-year-old office worker from Tempe, had never hiked before. Inspired by Instagram photos of Phoenix sunsets, she decided to try Dobbins Lookout on a Saturday in November. She followed this plan:

• Printed a map and downloaded AllTrails offline.
• Brought 2 liters of water, electrolyte packets, a hat, sunscreen, and trail runners.
• Arrived at Gate 8 at 6:30 a.m. with a friend.
• Stuck to the trail, took breaks every 30 minutes, and drank water consistently.
• Reached the summit at 8:15 a.m., watched the sunrise over the city, and took photos.
• Descended carefully, avoiding loose rocks.
• Returned to the car by 9:30 a.m., feeling accomplished but not exhausted.

Maria later joined a volunteer trail crew and now leads beginner hikes. “I thought I’d be out of breath the whole time,” she says. “But pacing myself made all the difference.”

Example 2: The Experienced Hiker — Javier’s Overnight on the Arizona Trail

Javier, a 45-year-old veteran of the Appalachian Trail, planned a 12-mile overnight hike along the Arizona Trail segment through South Mountain. He prepared meticulously:

• Used Gaia GPS to map the route, identifying water sources and emergency exits.
• Carried a lightweight tent, sleeping bag rated for 40°F, and a portable stove.
• Used a PLB and informed a friend of his route and estimated return time.
• Set up camp at a designated site near the Cholla Trail, away from washes.
• Collected firewood only from deadfall and used a stove instead of a campfire.
• Left no trace—packed out all waste, including biodegradable soap.

He encountered a desert bighorn sheep at dawn and captured a photo without disturbing it. “The silence up there,” he says, “is the most powerful thing I’ve felt in years.”

Example 3: The Monsoon Challenge — The Unexpected Storm

In July, a group of four hikers began the Mountain View Trail at 10 a.m. The sky was clear. By noon, dark clouds rolled in. Rain began falling heavily, turning the trail into a muddy stream. One hiker slipped and twisted an ankle.

They followed emergency protocol:

• Stopped moving immediately.
• Found shelter under a large rock overhang.
• Used their Garmin inReach to send a distress signal with their coordinates.
• Wrapped the injured hiker in an emergency blanket.
• Stayed put for 90 minutes until a park ranger arrived by ATV.

No one was seriously hurt. The ranger later emphasized: “Had they continued down the wash, they could’ve been swept away. Staying put saved their lives.”

FAQs

Is it safe to hike South Mountain alone?

It’s possible, but not recommended, especially for beginners. If you choose to hike solo, always inform someone of your plans, carry a satellite messenger, stick to well-traveled trails, and avoid hiking during extreme heat or monsoon season.

Are dogs allowed on South Mountain trails?

Yes, dogs are permitted but must be leashed at all times. Owners must carry water for their pets and clean up waste. Some trails, like Piestewa Peak, are too steep and rocky for dogs. Check trail-specific rules before bringing your pet.

How long does it take to hike Dobbins Lookout?

Most hikers complete the 3.8-mile round trip in 2 to 3 hours, depending on pace and rest stops. The ascent is steep but well-maintained. Allow extra time for photos and rest at the summit.

Can I camp anywhere in South Mountain?

No. Camping is only permitted in designated areas, such as the Cholla Trail and Mountain View Trail zones. Overnight stays require a permit from Phoenix Parks and Recreation. No fires are allowed—only portable stoves.

What should I do if I see a rattlesnake?

Stop, remain calm, and slowly back away. Do not attempt to move, provoke, or photograph the snake. Most bites occur when people try to handle or scare snakes. Give the snake space—it wants to avoid you as much as you want to avoid it.

Is there cell service on the trails?

Cell service is unreliable. AT&T and Verizon may work near trailheads but often drop out in canyons and on ridgelines. Always download offline maps and carry a backup communication device like a PLB or satellite messenger.

What’s the best time of year to hike South Mountain?

October through April offers the most comfortable temperatures. November and March are ideal—cool mornings, warm afternoons, and low humidity. Avoid June through September unless you’re experienced and prepared for extreme heat.

Are there restrooms on the trails?

Restrooms are available at most major trailheads but not along the trails themselves. Plan accordingly. Carry hand sanitizer and toilet paper if you need to use the desert as a bathroom. Dig a cathole 6–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water sources and trails.

Can I bring a drone?

Drone use is prohibited in South Mountain Park without a special permit from the City of Phoenix. This protects wildlife, privacy, and the natural experience of other visitors.

What’s the most dangerous trail in South Mountain?

Piestewa Peak Summit Trail is the most popular—and most dangerous—due to its steepness, exposure, and high volume of hikers. Many injuries occur from rushing, poor footwear, or dehydration. Always treat it with respect, regardless of your experience level.

Conclusion

Hiking South Mountain Trails is more than a physical activity—it’s an immersion into one of the most resilient and beautiful desert ecosystems on Earth. Whether you’re drawn to the panoramic views from Dobbins Lookout, the quiet solitude of Seven Springs, or the challenge of Piestewa Peak, each trail offers a unique story written in rock, sand, and native plant life. Success on these trails doesn’t come from speed or ambition, but from preparation, mindfulness, and deep respect for the environment.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—researching your route, timing your hike wisely, packing essential gear, staying on trail, and honoring the land—you not only ensure your own safety but also contribute to the preservation of this irreplaceable natural resource. South Mountain is not just a park; it’s a living museum, a refuge for wildlife, and a sanctuary for those seeking quiet amid the urban sprawl.

As you lace up your boots and step onto the trail, remember: you are a guest in a landscape that has endured for millennia. Walk lightly. Observe closely. Leave nothing behind but footprints, and take nothing but memories. The desert remembers every step you take—and it rewards those who tread with care.