How to Hike Deem Hills in Phoenix

Deem Hills in Phoenix, Arizona, is one of the city’s most underrated natural treasures — a serene desert escape offering panoramic views, challenging terrain, and an authentic Southwestern hiking experience without the crowds of more famous trails like Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak. Located in the northwest corner of the city near the border of Glendale, Deem Hills provides hikers with a rugged, unspoiled landscape of volcanic rock formations, native desert flora, and sweeping vistas of the Salt River Valley. Despite its proximity to urban development, this trail system remains relatively undiscovered, making it ideal for those seeking solitude, physical challenge, and a deeper connection with Arizona’s desert ecosystem.

Unlike many Phoenix-area hikes that are heavily trafficked or require permits, Deem Hills is free to access, open year-round, and maintained by local volunteers and the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. Its popularity has grown steadily among fitness enthusiasts, trail runners, and nature photographers who appreciate its raw beauty and minimal signage — a feature that adds to its appeal for experienced hikers but demands preparation from newcomers.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to hike Deem Hills in Phoenix — from planning and preparation to navigating the trails safely and respectfully. Whether you’re a local resident looking for a new adventure or a visitor seeking authentic desert hiking, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge to make the most of your journey while preserving the environment and ensuring personal safety.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research the Trail System

Deem Hills is not a single trail but a network of interconnected dirt paths, jeep tracks, and informal routes that crisscross the 300-acre conservation area. The most commonly used trailheads are located off 59th Avenue and Dunlap Avenue. Before setting out, review satellite imagery on Google Maps or AllTrails to understand the layout. The area features multiple peaks, including the main Deem Hill summit (elevation 1,580 feet), which offers the most rewarding 360-degree view of the Phoenix metro area, including the McDowell Mountains and the White Tank Mountains.

There are no official trail markers, so relying on GPS coordinates and landmarks is essential. Key reference points include the large boulder cluster near the western entrance, the abandoned irrigation ditch running along the southern edge, and the distinctive red sandstone outcrop known locally as “The Sentinel.” Bookmark these locations on your phone or print a paper map as backup.

2. Choose the Right Time of Year and Day

Phoenix experiences extreme heat from May through September, with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 105°F. Hiking Deem Hills during these months is not recommended unless you are an experienced desert hiker with advanced hydration and cooling strategies. The optimal hiking season is from October to April, when temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F.

For safety and comfort, start your hike at sunrise — ideally between 6:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. — to avoid the midday sun and benefit from softer lighting for photography. Sunset hikes are also popular but require a headlamp and extra caution due to increased wildlife activity and reduced visibility. Never begin a hike after 2:00 p.m. during spring or fall, and never after 10:00 a.m. in winter if you plan to ascend the main peak.

3. Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear is non-negotiable when hiking Deem Hills. The terrain is uneven, rocky, and steep in sections, with loose scree and hidden cactus patches. Essential items include:

• Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread — sandals or running shoes are unsafe.
• At least 2 liters of water per person, plus an electrolyte supplement. Dehydration occurs rapidly in desert environments.
• Wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and SPF 50+ sunscreen — the desert sun reflects off rock surfaces, increasing exposure.
• Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing in light colors to reflect heat. Long sleeves and pants protect against prickly pear cactus and cholla.
• Backpack with a waist strap to distribute weight and keep hands free.
• First aid kit including tweezers for cactus spines, antiseptic wipes, and blister treatment.
• Full-charge smartphone with offline maps (download Google Maps or Gaia GPS for Deem Hills area).
• Whistle and emergency blanket — both lightweight but critical in case of injury or getting lost.

Do not rely on cell service. Coverage is spotty, especially in the higher elevations and canyon areas. Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time.

4. Access the Trailhead

The most popular and easiest access point is the 59th Avenue Trailhead. From Phoenix, take I-17 north to the Dunlap Avenue exit. Head west on Dunlap for approximately 1.2 miles, then turn north onto 59th Avenue. Continue for 0.5 miles until you see a small dirt pullout on the east side of the road with a faded sign that reads “Deem Hills Preserve.” Park here — there is no formal parking lot, so avoid blocking any gates or private driveways.

An alternative trailhead is located off Dunlap Avenue near the intersection with Thunderbird Road. This entrance provides access to the southern ridge trail and is preferred by those seeking a longer, less steep approach. Use GPS coordinates 33.5872° N, 112.1503° W to locate it precisely.

Always arrive before sunrise to secure parking and avoid the heat. No permits are required, but respect posted “No Trespassing” signs on adjacent private property.

5. Begin Your Hike: The Main Route

From the 59th Avenue trailhead, follow the faint dirt path heading northeast. The initial 0.3 miles are relatively flat and wind through creosote bush and brittlebush. Watch for rattlesnakes, especially in the early morning. Give them space — they are not aggressive but will defend themselves if startled.

At the 0.5-mile mark, the trail begins to ascend. You’ll encounter a series of switchbacks carved into the hillside by previous hikers. Use your hands for balance on the steepest sections — the rock is loose and can shift underfoot. Avoid the temptation to cut switchbacks; this accelerates erosion and damages native vegetation.

At approximately 1.1 miles, you’ll reach a saddle between two ridges. Take a moment here to rest and orient yourself. The summit of Deem Hill is directly ahead, rising another 300 feet. The final ascent is the most challenging — a steep, exposed scramble over volcanic basalt. Use handholds on the rock faces. There are no ropes or railings. If you’re uncomfortable with exposure, turn back here — the view from the saddle is still impressive.

At the summit (1.4 miles from the trailhead), you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking, unobstructed view of the entire Phoenix basin. To the east, you can see downtown’s skyline. To the west, the White Tank Mountains frame the horizon. Use this vantage point to identify other landmarks like the Papago Buttes and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

6. Descend Safely

Descending is often more dangerous than ascending due to fatigue and loose rock. Do not rush. Use the same path you ascended. If you’re feeling unstable, consider descending sideways — placing your feet wider for balance. Take frequent breaks. Hydrate slowly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

After reaching the saddle again, continue south along the ridge line for 0.4 miles to reach the return trail. This section is flatter and passes through a grove of saguaro cacti. Look for the distinctive white quartz outcropping on your left — it marks the path back to the trailhead.

Complete your hike by returning to your vehicle. Do not leave trash, even food scraps — desert animals are not adapted to human food and can become dependent or aggressive.

7. Post-Hike Recovery

After returning to your vehicle, rehydrate with water and electrolytes. Eat a snack rich in protein and complex carbohydrates to replenish energy. Check your body for ticks, cactus spines, or insect bites. Remove any spines with tweezers and clean the area with antiseptic. Monitor for signs of heat exhaustion — dizziness, nausea, or confusion — even hours after returning. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.

Consider logging your hike on a personal journal or app. Note weather conditions, time spent, and any wildlife sightings. This helps you improve future hikes and contributes to community knowledge.

Best Practices

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

Deem Hills thrives because it remains unspoiled. Follow the seven Leave No Trace principles rigorously:

• Plan ahead and prepare — Know the terrain, weather, and your limits.
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces — Stick to established paths. Avoid trampling desert soil, which takes decades to recover.
• Dispose of waste properly — Pack out all trash, including biodegradable items like fruit peels. Human waste must be buried at least 200 feet from trails and water sources.
• Leave what you find — Do not collect rocks, plants, or artifacts. Desert ecosystems are fragile and slow to regenerate.
• Minimize campfire impact — Fires are prohibited in Deem Hills. Use a stove if cooking nearby.
• Respect wildlife — Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them. Snakes, Gila monsters, and javelinas are common and should be given space.
• Be considerate of other visitors — Keep noise levels low. Yield to uphill hikers. Share the trail with runners and cyclists.

Stay Hydrated and Recognize Heat Illness

Desert hiking demands aggressive hydration. Drink 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes, even if you’re not thirsty. Carry electrolyte tablets or powder to replace lost sodium and potassium. Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, headache, nausea, and muscle cramps. Heat stroke — a medical emergency — presents as dry skin, confusion, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness. If you or a companion shows signs of heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move to shade. Cool the person with water and fanning.

Watch for Wildlife

Deem Hills is home to desert-adapted species. Be alert for:

• Rattlesnakes — Most common in spring and fall. Listen for the rattle. Step back slowly if you hear one.
• Cholla cactus — Also called “jumping cactus.” Its spines detach easily and embed in skin or clothing. Avoid brushing against it.
• Gila monsters — Rare but present. They move slowly and are not aggressive. Never attempt to touch them.
• Scorpions — Active at night. Shake out boots and clothing before putting them on.
• Javelinas — Pig-like mammals that can be aggressive if cornered. Give them wide berth.

Carry a snakebite kit if you’re experienced with its use, but know that the best treatment is immediate medical care. Do not cut or suck wounds.

Respect Cultural and Historical Sites

Archaeological evidence suggests that the Hohokam people used this area for seasonal foraging and ceremonial purposes. Look for small stone arrangements or grinding holes on boulders — these are protected cultural resources. Do not disturb them. Reporting discoveries to the Arizona State Museum helps preserve history.

Group Safety

Never hike alone in remote desert areas. Bring at least one other person. If you must hike solo, leave a detailed itinerary with a trusted contact. Use a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger like Garmin inReach for emergency communication where cell service is absent.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Apps

• Gaia GPS — Offers detailed topographic maps of Deem Hills, including elevation profiles and user-generated trails. Download offline maps before entering the area.
• AllTrails — Search “Deem Hills” for recent user reviews, photos, and trail conditions. Filter by difficulty and length.
• Weather Underground — Provides hyperlocal forecasts for Phoenix’s northwest side. Check wind speed and UV index.
• Google Earth — Use the 3D terrain view to visualize the hike before you go. Identify key landmarks and potential hazards.

Printed Resources

Although digital tools are essential, always carry a physical map. The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department offers a free Deem Hills Trail Map at their administrative offices on 2100 W. Clarendon Ave. You can also download a PDF version from their website: phoenix.gov/parks.

Consider purchasing “Hiking Arizona’s Wilderness Areas” by Robert M. Ormes — it includes a detailed section on Deem Hills and surrounding desert trails.

Local Hiking Groups

Joining a local hiking group enhances safety and knowledge. Organizations like:

• Arizona Hiking Club — Hosts monthly guided hikes in the Phoenix area.
• Desert Hikers Alliance — Offers workshops on desert survival and navigation.
• Meetup.com Phoenix Hiking Group — Active community with varied difficulty levels.

These groups often share real-time trail conditions, such as recent snake sightings or trail closures due to erosion.

Essential Gear Retailers in Phoenix

For last-minute gear, visit:

• REI Co-op Phoenix — Offers expert advice and quality hiking boots, hydration packs, and sun protection.
• Big 5 Sporting Goods (Glendale) — Affordable options for water bottles, hats, and first aid supplies.
• Desert Supply Co. (Downtown Phoenix) — Specializes in desert-specific gear like cactus-resistant clothing and UV-protective bandanas.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah’s First Hike — A Beginner’s Success Story

Sarah, a 32-year-old software engineer from Tempe, had never hiked in the desert before. She read this guide, packed her gear the night before, and started her hike at 6:30 a.m. on a crisp November morning. She followed the GPS route exactly, took breaks every 20 minutes, and drank 1.5 liters of water. She reached the saddle and chose not to summit due to fear of exposure — a wise decision, she says now. “I didn’t feel pressured to reach the top. The view from the saddle was enough. I saw a Gila monster sunning itself on a rock — I didn’t move for ten minutes. That’s the moment I fell in love with desert hiking.”

Sarah returned two weeks later with a friend and completed the full loop. She now leads monthly hikes for coworkers.

Example 2: Mark’s Emergency — A Lesson in Preparation

Mark, a 45-year-old fitness trainer, attempted a solo sunset hike in March. He underestimated the time it would take to descend and lost track of the trail as darkness fell. He had no headlamp and his phone died. He used his whistle to signal for help, and a passing patrol officer from the Phoenix Police Department heard him. He was found 45 minutes later, dehydrated but unharmed. “I thought I was tough enough to wing it,” Mark says. “I was wrong. Now I carry a PLB, two batteries, and a backup paper map. I never hike alone anymore.”

Example 3: The Photographer’s Perfect Shot

Carlos, a professional landscape photographer, spends every winter morning at Deem Hills. He waits for the “golden hour” just after sunrise when the light hits the red sandstone at a 15-degree angle, casting long shadows that accentuate the rock’s texture. He uses a drone to capture aerial views — legal in this area as long as he avoids wildlife and doesn’t fly above 400 feet. His photo series, “Echoes of the Desert,” was featured in National Geographic’s Arizona issue. “Deem Hills doesn’t scream for attention,” he says. “It whispers. You have to be quiet, patient, and respectful to hear it.”

Example 4: The Community Effort — Trail Restoration Day

In February 2023, a group of 25 volunteers from the Phoenix Hiking Association spent a Saturday repairing erosion damage near the summit. They laid down native plant cuttings to stabilize soil, cleared debris, and installed wooden signs to discourage off-trail hiking. “We didn’t want this place to become another Camelback,” said volunteer leader Lena Torres. “It’s not about popularity. It’s about preservation.”

FAQs

Is Deem Hills safe for beginners?

Yes, but only if you stick to the lower trails and avoid the summit scramble. The initial 0.8 miles are moderate and suitable for beginners. The final ascent requires agility and comfort with exposure — not recommended for those with vertigo or poor balance.

Are dogs allowed on the Deem Hills trails?

Yes, dogs are permitted but must be leashed at all times. The rocky terrain can cut their paws, and cactus spines are dangerous. Carry water for your dog and clean their feet after the hike.

How long does it take to hike Deem Hills?

A round-trip to the summit and back takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on fitness level and stops. A shorter loop to the saddle takes 1.5 hours. Allow extra time for photography, rest, and hydration.

Is there water available on the trail?

No. There are no water sources on the trail. Bring all the water you need. The desert absorbs moisture quickly — do not rely on finding any.

Can I camp at Deem Hills?

No. Camping is prohibited in Deem Hills Preserve. The area is designated for day use only. Nearby alternatives include the White Tank Mountains Regional Park or the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

Are there restrooms at the trailhead?

No. The nearest public restrooms are at the Dunlap Community Center, 1.2 miles away. Plan accordingly.

What should I do if I see a rattlesnake?

Stop. Do not approach. Back away slowly. Give the snake space — it will likely move on. Do not try to move or kill it. Most bites occur when people attempt to handle snakes.

Is Deem Hills open during monsoon season?

It is strongly advised to avoid hiking during monsoon season (July–September). Flash floods can occur without warning in dry washes. Lightning is common. Trails become slippery and dangerous.

Can I drive a 4x4 or ATV on the trails?

No. Motorized vehicles are prohibited in Deem Hills Preserve. The trails are for foot traffic only.

Why is Deem Hills less crowded than other Phoenix hikes?

Because it lacks signage, formal parking, and social media hype. It’s not promoted by tour companies or influencers. This makes it a hidden gem for those who seek quiet, authentic desert experiences.

Conclusion

Hiking Deem Hills in Phoenix is more than a physical activity — it’s an immersion into the quiet resilience of the Sonoran Desert. Unlike the crowded, commercialized trails that dominate Phoenix’s hiking scene, Deem Hills offers something rarer: solitude, raw beauty, and a profound sense of connection to the land. But this experience comes with responsibility. To hike Deem Hills is to become a steward of its fragile ecosystem.

This guide has provided you with the practical knowledge to navigate the trails safely, respect the environment, and appreciate the quiet majesty of this desert landscape. From choosing the right gear to understanding the rhythms of desert wildlife, every step you take should be intentional. The summit may be the goal, but the journey — the crunch of gravel underfoot, the scent of creosote after a rare rain, the silence broken only by the wind — is what truly endures.

As you prepare for your next hike, remember: the desert does not need you to conquer it. It simply asks that you walk through it with care. Leave nothing but footprints. Take nothing but memories. And return — not just to enjoy the view, but to protect it for those who come after you.