Hiking with Kids Open
Phoenix Mountains Preserve
4.8(6,101)4.8 out of 5 stars, 6101 reviews Phoenix, AZ
About Phoenix Mountains Preserve
Phoenix Mountains Preserve offers a variety of beginner-friendly hiking trails with stunning views, making it an ideal outdoor activity for families looking for a moderate adventure away from the city.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families looking for a quick outdoor adventure.Weekend outings for those living in or near North Phoenix.Suitable for children aged 5 and up, as noted by families hiking with young kids.
Why families love it
- Easily marked trails that are beginner-friendly.
- Beautiful views reminiscent of classic western landscapes.
- Variety of trails, including options for both steep and flat hikes.
- Well-maintained bathrooms and water bottle filling stations.
- Accessibility to multiple trails from various trailheads.
Insider tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially at popular trailheads like Quartz Trail.
- Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Good to know before you go
- Weekends during peak hours when parking may be scarce.
- Limited parking at trailheads, especially during peak times.
- Trails may become more challenging as altitude increases.
- Crowds
- Less crowded during weekdays, especially around lunch; weekends can be busy.
- Value
- Free access to trails with no hidden costs; excellent value for families seeking outdoor activities compared to paid attractions.
- Food
- No specific food or drink rules mentioned, but bringing water is advisable.
- Accessibility
- Trails are generally suitable for beginner hikers, but no specific accommodations for special needs mentioned.
- Safety
- Well-marked trails help ensure safety for families and beginners.
What parents say
"This might be one of my favorite moderate trails I’ve ever done (all across the US). It had great views, and the trail was easily marked. We came on a weekday around lunch so there weren’t many people hiking. I highly recommend The Voaz Loop trail."
a month ago
"I absolutely love hiking the Phoenix mountain preserve!! I come here every weekend with my dog for a sunrise hike and it’s absolutely gorgeous. I park at the quartz trail head right off 32nd street and Lincoln, it’s a small parking lot so be sure to get there early if you want a spot! I’ve done the Mohave connector trail as well as the quartz trail and both are pretty beginner friendly. They both have a little bit of an incline but in total it’s only about 2-3 miles. It’s a fun little hike to shoot up and down then be on with your day!!"
2 months ago
"This place seemed like it was taken out of an old western movie. It kind of felt surreal for me because I’m from the north east. I enjoyed hiking up the mountains with my wife and 8 year old son. It was a good hike for beginners however as you went up in altitude it becomes more difficult. Make sure to visit the preserves to get some beautiful views!"
a month ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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