Phoenix Mountains Preserve
Phoenix Mountains Preserve
Highlight • Natural
Road cycling
5.0
(11)
Cycling
5.0
(8)
Running
5.0
(1)
The Phoenix Mountains Preserve is an expansive urban park system nestled within the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, encompassing approximately 40,000 acres of the iconic Sonoran Desert. This remarkable natural feature is a collection of rugged mountains and foothills, including prominent peaks like Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain, with elevations reaching nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. It stands as one of the world's largest city parks, offering a unique blend of wilderness and accessibility within a major metropolitan area.
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Tips
October 18, 2023
Road cycling
February 8, 2024
Cycling
May 29, 2025
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Phoenix Mountains Preserve
5.0
(1)
77
riders
57.7km
02:31
260m
260m
4.0
(2)
35
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
70
riders
47.6km
02:53
380m
380m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 440 m
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Monday 13 April
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17°C
21 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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The preserve offers a wide range of trails. For a challenging ascent with panoramic city views, the Summit Trail on Piestewa Peak is highly popular, featuring over 1,200 feet of elevation gain. Camelback Mountain also provides demanding hikes and stunning vistas. For those seeking less strenuous options, areas like Dreamy Draw Recreation Area offer more leisurely walks and mountain biking paths.
Yes, the Phoenix Mountains Preserve has several family-friendly and beginner-appropriate trails. The Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is particularly well-suited for leisurely walks and mountain biking, featuring relatively flat paths amidst scenic saguaro cacti. North Mountain and Shaw Butte also offer a range of trails, including barrier-free nature paths that are great for all ages and skill levels.
Many trails within the Phoenix Mountains Preserve are dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. It's crucial to bring plenty of water for your pet, especially during warmer months, as the desert heat can be intense. Always check specific trailhead regulations, as some areas or trails might have restrictions.
The preserve has numerous parking areas at various trailheads, many of which offer restrooms and water fountains. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended. The preserve is centrally located in Phoenix and is accessible via the Valley Metro bus network, with stops near major trailheads, making it convenient for those using public transportation.
Generally, no specific permits are required for day-use hiking or biking on the public trails within the Phoenix Mountains Preserve. However, for organized events, commercial activities, or certain group sizes, it's always best to check with the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department for any specific requirements or permits that might apply.
To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or very early in the morning on weekends. The cooler months from fall through spring are the most popular for outdoor activities. During these seasons, trails can get busy, especially popular ones like Piestewa Peak. Summer mornings are also less crowded, but require extreme caution due to heat.
Summer hiking in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve requires extreme caution due to intense heat. It's recommended to hike only during the early morning hours (before 8 AM) or late evening. Carry significantly more water than you think you'll need (at least 1 gallon per person for a moderate hike), wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen. Be aware of heat exhaustion symptoms and turn back if you feel unwell. Many trails are closed during extreme heat advisories.
The preserve is home to diverse Sonoran Desert wildlife. Visitors frequently spot desert hares, various species of lizards, and numerous bird species, including roadrunners and various raptors. While less common, javelina, coyotes, and even rattlesnakes can be present. Always observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals.
Yes, the preserve holds significant historical and cultural value. Along some trails, you can find ancient petroglyphs left by the ancestral Hohokam people, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's past. There are also remnants of historical mining sites scattered throughout the area, reflecting a different era of human activity in the desert.
Given its central location within Phoenix, there are numerous amenities available just outside the preserve boundaries. You'll find a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options ranging from hotels to vacation rentals within a short driving distance. Major commercial areas and neighborhoods are easily accessible from various points of the preserve.
The Phoenix Mountains Preserve boasts over 200 miles of trails, offering a wide spectrum of lengths and difficulty levels. You can find short, easy loops perfect for a quick stroll, such as those in Dreamy Draw Recreation Area, which might be 1-3 miles. More challenging routes, like the Summit Trail on Piestewa Peak, can be 2.5-3 miles round trip with significant elevation gain, taking several hours. Many trails are rated from easy to difficult, ensuring options for every fitness level.