You do not have to leave the city to climb a desert summit. North Mountain Park, part of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve in north Phoenix, pairs the twin peaks of North Mountain and Shaw Butte with a trail system the City of Phoenix calls home to two of the best summit climbs in Phoenix.
The preserve offers trails for hikers of all abilities, from gentle desert paths at the base to the steep pushes that earn wide views over the north valley skyline. At the trailhead, the North Mountain Visitor Center helps hikers and nature lovers with detailed information on the trail system, Sonoran wildlife and regional history — a smart first stop before heading up.
Parking and entrance hours run 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., with extended summer hours from June 1 through September 30 keeping the trailhead entrance open until 9 p.m., while trails stay open until 11 p.m. Go early, carry more water than you think you need, and let the city spread out below you.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
