In Phoenix, we’re fortunate to have many nature preserves and parks around the valley. They all have something different to offer, so I created this guide to help you explore more!
These are just a few of the most popular preserves around the valley. There are larger parks at the city limits, like White Tank Regional Park just west of Phoenix, and smaller preserves scattered in the cities, like Camelback Mountain Preserve in Scottsdale. Check out more of my favorite trails on The Best Phoenix Hikes.
Phoenix Mountain Preserve
Living in Central Phoenix, Phoenix Mountain Preserve is my “local” hiking spot, so I’m very familiar with its trails. The trails are rocky with interesting peaks, and the landscape ranges from brown to green through the seasons. In some of its valleys, you can’t see the city lights or hear the traffic, and it’s hard to believe you’re still in Phoenix.
There are many interconnected trails in Phoenix Mountain Preserve; you might want to bring a map. Piestewa Peak is the highest peak in Phoenix Mountain Preserve, and it’s worth the strenuous hike.
North Mountain Park is part of Phoenix Mountain Preserve. Next to iconic North Mountain is Shaw Butte, a less popular peak that I love.
South Mountain Preserve
South Mountain Preserve is just south of downtown Phoenix, making it the most accessible hiking area for many locals. South Mountain is well-loved, but it’s not my favorite place to hike. There’s a road through the middle of it, and it has less greenery than other preserves.
South Mountain Preserve has “Silent Sundays” every 4th Sunday of the month. The Summit Road is closed to vehicles, and it’s a cool opportunity to bike, walk, or run a scenic road.
The trailheads on the north side of the preserve are easily accessible from Phoenix, but, when I have the time, I prefer going to the southwest side. It’s less crowded, and the Sierra Estrella Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop. Bursera Loop Trail is my favorite South Mountain hike so far.
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
McDowell Preserve is in the northeast valley between North Scottsdale and Fountain Hills. I think it’s the most beautiful preserve. The McDowells are big peaks, and they usually get more rain than other parts of the valley. After a good monsoon/rainy season, the McDowells are so green. There’s also an interesting boulder landscape at Tom’s Thumb.
The only downside to McDowell Preserve is its strict sunset closing hours. They usually give a little grace period for hikers to exit safely, but the posted signs say you’re trespassing.
Thompson Peak is the highest peak in the McDowells that has an official trail to the summit.
It’s rare for a city to have mountain preserves like Phoenix, and many locals don’t appreciate them enough! It’s not always easy to call the desert “home,” but I fell in love with the Sonoran through hiking.
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