South Mountain Park, Phoenix
South Mountain Park may not have the allure of Camelback Mountain or the challenge of Piestewa Peak but there are several reasons why families should consider an outing at this rocky outcrop on the southern edge of the City of Phoenix. At nearly 17,000 acres, it is the largest municipal park in the world and a Phoenix Point of Pride. South Mountain Park is crisscrossed by nearly 60 miles (97 km) of shared-use – hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding – trails of varying length and grade. It is a great place to spot desert wildlife - javelina (collared peccary), Gila monsters, chuckwalla, jackrabbit, cottontail rabbit, fit fox and coyote - and Southwest birdlife - great horned owl, red-tailed hawk, cactus wren and roadrunner. It comprises three mountain ranges, Ma Ha Tauk, Gila and Guadalupe. More than 300 species of plant life and 9 species of cactus are found in this corner of the Sonoran Desert. Hohokam Indian petroglyphs and ruins of stone structures offer a peek at times long past. Scenic drives and horseback rides offer a reprieve for trail worn kids. And the displays at the park's Environmental Education Center detail the area’s history from the Hohokam Indians to gold-seekers.
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Getting there
South Mountain Park is situated in the city of Phoenix. The community of Ahwatukee flanks the south end of the park. The main entrance to the park is located at 10919 S Central Avenue in Phoenix. From Phoenix or the west Valley, go south on Central Avenue until the road ends. From I-17 south, exit 7th Ave/Central Ave. Stay on Frontage Road. Turn right on Central Avenue. From I-10 east, exit 7th Avenue and go south. Turn east on Baseline Road. Turn right on Central Avenue. From I-10 west, exit Baseline Road and turn left. Turn left on Central Avenue.
Getting around
The park offers trails for every age and level of physical fitness. The multi-use trails are open to hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. You will encounter horses frequently on lower trails. The trails in the eastern section of the park are, in general, flatter and easier. The moderate and difficult trails are rugged, rocky and steep. The National Trail, stretching 15.5 miles or 25 km from park end to park end offers spectacular Valley views. If you are short of time or traveling with younger children try the 4-mile (6.5 km) loop from the Buena Vista Lookout. This section of the National Trail traverses Hidden Valley and passes through Fat Man's Pass, both favorites with kids. The roads to Dobbins Lookout, Gila Valley Lookout and Big Ramada are popular scenic drives and reward the intrepid with an exceptional panorama.
Trailheads & Trail Maps
City of Phoenix Trail Grades Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau National Trail azcentral Opening hours
The park is open daily from 5:00 to 23:00. Several of the trailhead parking lots close earlier. The Environmental Educational Center is open 8:00 - 14:00 Wednesday to Saturday, 8:00 - 13:00 on Sundays from May through September and 8:00 - 15:00 Wednesday to Saturday, 8:00 - 14:00 on Sundays from October through April.
Fees
Entrance to the park is free of charge.
Things to keep in mind
Don't forget water and sunscreen. Watch out for rattlesnakes on the trail. Horseback riding is operated independently by Ponderosa Stables and South Mountain Stables.
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