You’ll find dramatic desert vistas and a lot of trail choices at South Mountain Park and Preserve. The City of Phoenix manages 16,000+ acres here, with more than 100 miles of trails. Whether you want a quick sunrise viewpoint or a longer loop on rugged ground, this guide helps you pick trailheads, plan for park hours and road closures, and hike safely.
Key takeaways
- Know the hours: parking/entrance areas are open 5 a.m.–7 p.m., while most trails are open 5 a.m.–11 p.m.
- Pick the right trailhead: Mormon, Pima Canyon, Holbert, and Kiwanis/Telegraph are popular starts with different terrain and access.
- Plan for desert conditions: carry more water than you think you need, start early, and follow the City’s heat-safety guidance.
- Follow key rules: drones generally can’t take off/land in City parks/preserves, and dogs must be leashed (max 6 ft) except in designated dog parks.
Getting There and Parking
Because the park is huge and has multiple access points, start by choosing the trailhead that fits your route. Popular options include Mormon Trailhead (24th St.), Pima Canyon Trailhead (46th St.), Holbert Trailhead (main entrance), and the Kiwanis/Telegraph Pass area off Summit Road.
Hours matter: as of 2026-01-25, parking/entrance areas are open 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., while trail hours extend to 11 p.m. Plan your return so you’re not locked out of a lot or gated road. On Sundays, Summit Road may be closed to motor vehicles for Silent Sunday (times vary by week), which can change where you’re able to drive and park.
For current hours, trail maps, and road-closure notes, see the City of Phoenix South Mountain Park/Preserve page.
Arrive early on weekends for easier parking. Carry water and a map (or offline map app), respect posted signs, and don’t block gates or driveways.
Best Trails by Skill Level
Match your route to your fitness, experience, and the day’s conditions. South Mountain has everything from barrier-free paths to steep, rocky ridge travel.
- Easy: the Judith Tunell Accessible Trail near the South Mountain Visitor Center offers smoother, short loops with rest stops. Gentle sections of Desert Classic also work well for newer hikers.
- Moderate / intermediate: Kiwanis Trail and Beverly Canyon offer steady climbs and canyon scenery. The Mormon Trail → Hidden Valley area is popular for a satisfying loop with varied terrain.
- Advanced: rocky, ridge-forward segments of the National Trail, plus steeper routes like Alta and Holbert, demand solid footing, sun/heat planning, and confident navigation.
Always check conditions, carry water and electrolytes, and let someone know your plan.
Scenic Viewpoints and Sunrise Spots
South Mountain’s ridges catch the first light, making it a strong sunrise photography destination. Plan to arrive 20–30 minutes before dawn, bring a headlamp, and watch footing on rocky sections.
Arrive before dawn for layered sunrise panoramas—bring a headlamp, tripod, and a plan for your return time.
- Dobbins Lookout: the highest point in the park open to the public; reachable by hiking trails or by driving Summit Road during open hours.
- Buena Vista Lookout: a popular roadside viewpoint near the upper park roadways.
- Telegraph Pass: a classic sunrise start with quick access to the National Trail and connected routes.
- National Trail ridgeline saddles: balanced horizons and big-sky compositions (expect rocky footing).
- Kiwanis / upper road pullouts: multiple angles, especially on car-free portions of Silent Sunday.
For photography: expose for highlights, consider bracketing, and look for foreground cacti or rock textures to add depth.
Flora and Wildlife to Watch For
Look for iconic Sonoran Desert plants like saguaro, brittlebush, and palo verde. Wildlife sightings can include javelina, coyotes, desert cottontails, and mule deer—observe from a distance and never feed animals. For birdwatching, scan ridgelines and washes at dawn for Gambel’s quail, cactus wrens, and red-tailed hawks.
Desert Plants to Spot
- Saguaro: the park’s signature cactus; blooms in late spring.
- Hedgehog cactus: compact blooms that can light up rocky slopes.
- Brittlebush: silver foliage with bright yellow spring flowers.
- Ocotillo: spindly stems that leaf out after rains and bloom in spring.
- Desert marigold and penstemon: common wildflowers that brighten washes after seasonal moisture.
Common Animal Sightings
Move quietly and you’ll notice the preserve’s animal life: lizards basking on warm rocks, ravens calling from ridgelines, and mammals moving through washes at cooler times of day. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens for wildlife photography and keep a respectful distance.
| Species | Typical behavior |
|---|---|
| Lizards | Basking, quick dashes |
| Mule deer | Grazing at dawn/dusk |
| Coyotes | Trotting, howling, scenting |
Birdwatching Highlights
- Gambel’s Quail: look for coveys near denser vegetation.
- Cactus Wren: loud calls around cactus stands.
- Red-tailed Hawk: soaring adults over ridgelines.
- Gila Woodpecker: check older trees and cactus stands for drumming.
- Seasonal migrants: spring and fall can bring added variety—move slowly and listen.
Trail Etiquette and Safety Tips
South Mountain trails are shared spaces for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Move predictably, yield appropriately, keep noise low, and stay on designated routes. Bikers should slow and announce passes with a clear voice or bell.
Desert conditions can change fast. Carry a headlamp, a map (or an offline map app), water, and a basic first-aid kit. Start early in warm months. Take breaks in shade. Turn around if you’re overheating or running low on water. Before you go, review the City of Phoenix “Take a Hike. Do it Right.” checklist and heat-safety updates.
Seasonal Considerations and What to Pack
Think season-first: hot, dry summers call for lightweight clothing and sun protection, while winter mornings can be chilly and windy. Pack sturdy shoes for rocky trails, a hat, sunglasses, and broad-spectrum sunscreen. Bring plenty of water—more than you think you need—and consider electrolytes in warm weather.
Weather-By-Season Essentials
- Summer: early starts, light fabrics, aggressive sun protection, and extra water/electrolytes.
- Winter: a warm layer for pre-dawn starts and breezy ridgelines.
- Spring/Fall: variable temps—bring versatile layers and watch for wind.
- Monsoon season: avoid exposed ridges during lightning and watch washes for sudden runoff.
- Night hikes: carry a headlamp and warmer layer even after hot days.
Layering and Sun Protection
Use a breathable base layer, add an insulating mid-layer for cool mornings, and top with a lightweight wind shell. For sun, bring a wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and a long-sleeve sun shirt. Reapply broad-spectrum sunscreen during longer outings.
Emergency and Hydration Kit
- Water (bring more in warm months; don’t rely on on-site fountains)
- Electrolyte tablets or powdered mixes
- Lightweight emergency blanket and whistle
- Basic first-aid kit and headlamp
- High-energy snacks and a map/compass or offline map app
Nearby Amenities and Visitor Resources
Facilities vary by trailhead, so plan as if you won’t have reliable water or restrooms on-route. The South Mountain Visitor Center area is a good place to start for maps and orientation when it’s open.
| Resource | Where to find it |
|---|---|
| Maps & info | South Mountain Visitor Center (Thu–Sun, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. as of 2026-01-25) |
| Water | Limited—available at select facilities; bring what you need |
| Restrooms | Visitor Center / picnic areas; not guaranteed at every trailhead |
| Parking | Designated lots at major trailheads; street parking varies by neighborhood |
| Post-hike food | Dining corridors in nearby South Phoenix neighborhoods |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are drones allowed in South Mountain Park and Preserve?
In City of Phoenix parks and preserves, drones generally can’t take off or land unless you’re in a City-designated area for model aircraft/drone use (see Phoenix City Code 24-49). Even in allowed areas, follow FAA rules and avoid disturbing visitors and wildlife.
Can I bring my dog off-leash on any trails?
No. Phoenix’s “dogs at large” rule requires dogs to be leashed (not to exceed six feet) and under control when off the owner’s property, with an exception for designated dog parks. On trails, keep your dog close, carry water for them, and pack out waste.
Are mountain bikes permitted on all trails?
South Mountain is a major multiuse trail system where mountain biking is popular, but access can vary by trail type and conditions. Follow posted signs, stay on designated routes, and yield to hikers and equestrians.
Is camping or overnight backpacking allowed within the preserve?
For most visitors, plan on day use. Overnight camping or leaving vehicles overnight in a City park/preserve usually requires City permission (for example, a special-use permit for some groups).
Are permits required for group events or commercial photography?
Often, yes. The City of Phoenix uses permits for organized activities and some park reservations. Paid photo or video shoots on City property are handled through the City’s Film Office permit process. If your shoot uses sets/props, a crew, reserved space, or affects other visitors, check permit rules before you go.
Conclusion
South Mountain Park and Preserve rewards early starts: sunrise views from Dobbins Lookout and Telegraph Pass, rugged ridge hiking on the National Trail, and desert plants and wildlife that reveal themselves when you move quietly. Pack water, follow trail etiquette, respect wildlife, and plan around park hours and seasonal heat so you can hike safely and leave with great photos.
