South Mountain Park and Preserve

South Mountain Park and Preserve, located in Phoenix, AZ, is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, offering a vast array of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. With its expansive trails, breathtaking views, and well-maintained facilities, it’s the perfect destination for hikers, campers, and RV travelers alike.

The park spans over 16,000 acres and features more than 50 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an intense workout, South Mountain Park has something for everyone. The park’s iconic trails, such as the National Trail, provide hikers with stunning panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and the surrounding desert landscape.

South Mountain Park is also known for its well-organized events, including the annual National Trail event, which attracts hundreds of participants. The park’s spacious trails ensure that even during large events, visitors can enjoy a peaceful and uncrowded experience. The park’s friendly rangers and volunteers are always on hand to assist and ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

For those planning a longer stay, the park offers excellent facilities for camping and RV parking. The serene environment and convenient amenities make it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or an extended outdoor adventure. Visitors are encouraged to bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, and to use trekking poles for the more challenging descents.

Here’s what some of our visitors have to say about their experience at South Mountain Park and Preserve:

• "I 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!"
• "I’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!"

Plan your visit to South Mountain Park and Preserve today and experience the beauty and adventure that this incredible park has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories in this natural oasis.