South Mountain Park and Preserve
Overview
Expert Summary
Detailed Insights
South Mountain Park and Preserve offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences, from easy, scenic hikes suitable for younger children to challenging, rewarding treks for older kids and teens. Its unique value lies in the breathtaking panoramic views, spectacular sunsets (especially at Dobbin's Lookout), and opportunities to spot wildlife amidst vast desert landscapes.
Key Highlights
- ✓Breathtaking summit views that offer a profound sense of accomplishment.
- ✓Spectacular sunsets with vibrant desert colors, particularly from Dobbin's Lookout.
- ✓Trails that accommodate varying difficulty levels, including enjoyable easy paths suitable for younger children.
- ✓Wide sections of paths allow walking comfortably with a partner.
- ✓Natural resting spots like rocks for water breaks.
- ✓Abundant wildlife can be spotted throughout the preserve.
- ✓Well-organized events and helpful rangers/volunteers (as noted in a large annual event).
- ✓Vast area for extensive exploration, potentially for days.
Standout Features
- ⭐Accessible spots for sunset viewing, even from ground level if higher points are crowded.
- ⭐Varied trail difficulties, catering to different fitness levels and ages.
- ⭐Scenic views throughout the hikes, not just at the summit.
- ⭐Opportunities for wildlife viewing, adding an educational element.
- ⭐Natural resting points (rocks) on trails for breaks.
Perfect For
Ideal For
💡Pro Tips from Reviews
- →For families with younger children, seek out the 'easy' trails, which are described as enjoyable and suitable for them.
- →If planning a long, strenuous hike (e.g., 15.5 miles), ensure children are experienced hikers, pack trekking poles for severe declines, and carry ample water (4-5 liters per person).
- →To avoid heavy traffic and crowds for sunset viewing, visit on a weekday or arrive early on non-holidays.
- →Be aware that trail markers can sometimes be confusing; consider a map or GPS, especially when hiking with children.
- →Consider arranging a ride to bypass the last 2 'irritating' miles of longer treks to maximize enjoyment.
Things to Consider
- ⚠Some trails can be confusing, making navigation challenging at times.
- ⚠Heavy traffic and crowds on holidays can prevent access to popular spots like Dobbin's Lookout.
- ⚠Specific parts of very long trails (e.g., the last 2 miles of a 15.5-mile trek) are described as 'nothing to look at' and 'irritating'.
- ⚠Challenging declines on some trails require specific gear (trekking poles).
Price & Value
Pricing is not mentioned in the provided reviews, but the experience is described as 'awesome' and a 'highlight' for vacationers, suggesting high perceived value for entry (if any).
♿Accessibility & Special Needs
- •No specific accessibility accommodations mentioned for those with special needs or mobility challenges. Trails vary in difficulty, implying some might not be universally accessible.
🍎Food & Drink Policy
- •No specific food policy mentioned. However, reviewers strongly emphasize the necessity of bringing ample water (4-5 liters for longer hikes) due to the desert environment.
🚗Parking Info
- •Heavy traffic and crowds on holidays can make reaching upper areas (like Dobbin's Lookout) difficult, suggesting potential parking issues or limited access at peak times. No specific parking details (e.g., free/paid, number of spots) are provided.
👥Crowd Levels
- •Can feel spacious even with large groups (e.g., 300 people) on specific event days.
- •Holidays mean heavy traffic and crowds, potentially preventing access to popular spots.
- •Weekdays or early arrival are recommended to avoid rush and ensure access to preferred areas.
🛡️Safety Features
- •Presence of 'lovely rangers and volunteers' noted during organized events, suggesting a degree of oversight and support.
- •Emphasis on personal safety measures like bringing trekking poles for severe declines and ample water for hydration.
⏰When to Avoid
- • Visiting on holidays due to heavy traffic and crowds that may prevent access to the best viewpoints.
- • The last 2 miles of the very long 15.5-mile trek, as they are described as uninteresting and irritating.
- • Challenging trails without proper hydration (4-5 liters of water per person) and trekking poles for severe declines, especially with less experienced hikers.
Pricing/Package/Events
Photos
What People Say
What's Great
- Fun and entertaining activities (mentioned in 2 reviews)
- Great for birthday parties (mentioned in 2 reviews)
- Spacious play areas (mentioned in 2 reviews)
Recent Reviews
Shambri Murphy
3 months agoI did the annual national trail event and this was great, the whole thing was well organized and everyone was so positive. You would think with 300 people on the trail it would be crowded but it was spacious. It was a 15.5 mile trek but I would recommend just arranging for a ride at the end of the mountain instead of the last 2 miles of the trail. It’s nothing to look at and just irritating once you finished the entire mountain. You absolutely need trekking poles because the decline switchbacks are severe. I think I went through 4-5 liters of water and make sure you watch throughout the hike. Thank you to the lovely rangers and volunteers
Anup Lamichhane
3 months agoSouth Mountain Park and Dobbin’s Lookout are incredible spots to catch a magical sunset over Phoenix. The views are breathtaking, and the vibrant desert colors as the sun sets are unforgettable. However, visiting on a holiday can mean heavy traffic and crowds, which might prevent you from reaching the top. Even from ground level, the sunset is stunning, but for the best experience, try going on a weekday or arrive early to avoid the rush. Definitely a must-visit for nature and sunset lovers!
Dyneil M
3 months agoBeautiful, it was s a little confusing at times where it seems trails end. Still a beautiful hike and very enjoyable. Not too tough at all I would consider it more easy. Kids even younger kids can hike this. Love the rocks that you can sit on and take a water break. Most the path allows you to walk with a partner next to you.
Darling Love
3 months agoI’m feeling incredibly proud of myself after conquering the South Mountain Hiking Trail! It was definitely a mission, but I pushed through and made it all the way to the top. The journey was challenging, but the beauty of the trail made it worthwhile. Once I reached the summit, I was greeted with an absolutely amazing view that took my breath away. There’s something truly special about standing at the top and taking in the scenery after such a rewarding hike. If you’re looking for a hike that challenges you while offering stunning views, I highly recommend South Mountain Hiking Trail. I can’t wait to go back and tackle it again!
Nick Polsinelli
4 months agoFreaking awesome! Tons of wildlife, great trails, and a beautiful sunset. You could spend days exploring this entire area. One of the highlights of my vacation for sure. I only regret not spending more time here!