How to Hike Mormon Trail in South Mountain

The Mormon Trail in South Mountain is one of Arizona’s most historically significant and visually striking hiking routes. Though often confused with the broader 19th-century Mormon Pioneer Trail that stretched from Illinois to Utah, the South Mountain segment is a localized, lesser-known path that traces the footsteps of early Mormon settlers who arrived in the Phoenix area in the 1870s. These settlers, sent by Brigham Young to establish agricultural communities in the arid desert, carved out irrigation canals and trails that would eventually become the foundation of modern Phoenix. Today, the Mormon Trail in South Mountain offers hikers a rare blend of cultural heritage, desert ecology, and panoramic views of the Valley of the Sun.

Unlike commercialized trails with paved paths and signage, the Mormon Trail in South Mountain is a rugged, backcountry experience that rewards preparation, respect for history, and a spirit of exploration. It is not a single marked trail but rather a network of historic routes, remnants of old wagon paths, and indigenous footpaths that modern hikers can follow using topographic maps, GPS coordinates, and local knowledge. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to safely and meaningfully hike this trail — whether you’re a history buff, a desert enthusiast, or a seasoned backpacker seeking solitude.

Understanding the Mormon Trail in South Mountain is not just about walking a path — it’s about connecting with the resilience of pioneers who transformed a desert into a thriving settlement. This tutorial will equip you with everything you need to know to plan, navigate, and honor this journey with integrity and safety.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research the Historical Route

Before setting foot on the trail, invest time in understanding its origins. The Mormon settlers arrived in the Salt River Valley in 1877, led by Isaac C. Haight and other Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints missionaries. Their goal was to establish a self-sufficient agricultural colony. They built canals from the Salt River, planted crops, and created paths to transport goods between settlements and the mountain foothills.

The trail they used connected present-day Tempe, Mesa, and South Mountain Park. Modern hikers can trace segments of this route using historical maps from the Arizona Historical Society and the LDS Church Archives. Focus on the stretch between the Phoenix Mountains Preserve (near the South Mountain Visitor Center) and the historic Haight Road area, where remnants of old wagon ruts are still visible.

Study primary sources: journals from early settlers like John D. Lee and George W. Bradley describe the terrain, water sources, and challenges they faced. These accounts help you anticipate what you’ll encounter — dry washes, loose scree, and sudden elevation changes.

Step 2: Choose Your Starting Point

The most accessible and historically accurate starting point is the South Mountain Park and Preserve Visitor Center at 1111 E. Central Ave, Phoenix. From here, you can follow the Dobbins Lookout Trail for approximately 1.2 miles to the junction where the historic Mormon Trail diverges from modern hiking paths.

Alternatively, advanced hikers may begin at the Haight Road Trailhead (accessible via a dirt road off 48th Street), which places you closer to the original wagon ruts. This option adds 2.5 miles of unpaved road access but offers a more authentic experience.

Do not begin at the Gila River Trailhead — while it’s popular, it leads to unrelated desert routes and does not connect to the historic Mormon corridor.

Step 3: Gather Essential Gear

Unlike urban trails, the Mormon Trail lacks water fountains, restrooms, and shade. You must be fully self-sufficient.

• Water: Carry at least 3 liters per person. Even in winter, dehydration is a real risk. Consider a hydration bladder with a straw for easy sipping.
• Navigation Tools: Download offline maps using Gaia GPS or AllTrails. The trail is not consistently marked. Print a topographic map from the USGS and carry a compass.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are mandatory. The trail includes loose volcanic rock, cactus patches, and steep inclines.
• Clothing: Wear moisture-wicking layers. A wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and long sleeves are critical. Temperatures can exceed 105°F in summer.
• First Aid Kit: Include blister care, antiseptic wipes, snake bite kit, and electrolyte tablets.
• Emergency Supplies: Whistle, space blanket, headlamp with extra batteries, and a portable phone charger.

Step 4: Follow the Trail Route

From the Visitor Center, take the Dobbins Lookout Trail northbound. After 1.2 miles, you’ll reach a fork. Take the left path — this is the historic alignment. Do not follow signs for “Highland View” or “Pima Canyon,” as those are modern trails.

Look for subtle signs of the original route:

• Worn earth paths slightly wider than typical foot trails (about 3–4 feet wide).
• Stone cairns placed by early settlers to mark water sources.
• Remnants of stone-lined irrigation ditches, often hidden under brush.
• Scattered rusted metal fragments — remnants of wagon hardware.

Between mile 2.5 and 4.2, the trail enters a narrow canyon called “Mormon Wash.” This is the most authentic section. The ground is uneven, and you’ll need to scramble over boulders. Use your hands for balance. There is no signage here — rely on your map and GPS.

At mile 5.1, you’ll reach the “Haight Rock,” a large sandstone formation where early settlers reportedly held prayer meetings. This is a good turnaround point for day hikers. Advanced trekkers can continue another 2.3 miles to the old canal bed near the Gila River, but this requires a permit and is not recommended without a guide.

Step 5: Identify Water Sources and Safety Zones

There are no reliable natural water sources on the trail. The settlers relied on canals they dug — today, these are dry. Do not assume any puddle is safe. Even if it looks clear, desert water can contain harmful bacteria or heavy metals.

Identify safe rest zones:

• At the Dobbins Lookout viewpoint (mile 1.5): Flat, shaded area with panoramic views.
• Under the large mesquite tree near Haight Rock (mile 5.1): The only natural shade on the route.
• At the junction with the Mescal Trail (mile 6.0): A wider clearing suitable for lunch or emergency shelter.

Always carry a water filter as a backup, even if you plan to carry all your water. Unexpected delays can happen.

Step 6: Document and Respect the Site

This is not a recreational trail — it is a cultural heritage corridor. Do not remove stones, artifacts, or plant material. Avoid carving initials into rock. If you find a metal fragment, photograph it in place and report it to the South Mountain Park Heritage Program.

Bring a journal or voice recorder. Document your observations: the quality of the soil, the types of plants growing along the route, the direction of the sun at noon. These details help historians understand how the trail has changed over time.

Step 7: Exit Safely

Return the way you came. Do not attempt to cut across canyons or use unofficial shortcuts. The terrain is unstable, and many hikers have become disoriented trying to find alternate exits.

Exit at the Visitor Center. Check in with the ranger station to confirm your safe return. Many hikers overlook this step, but it’s critical for search-and-rescue protocols.

Best Practices

Timing: When to Hike

The best months to hike the Mormon Trail are October through April. Temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F, and the desert blooms with wildflowers in March. Avoid May through September — temperatures regularly exceed 110°F, and heat exhaustion is common.

Start your hike before sunrise. The trail is exposed, and by 9 a.m., the sun is unforgiving. A 6 a.m. start allows you to complete the 7-mile round trip before the heat peaks.

Group Size and Safety

Never hike alone. The trail is remote, and cell service is spotty. A group of three or more is ideal. Assign roles: navigator, medic, and timekeeper. If someone shows signs of heat stress — dizziness, nausea, confusion — stop immediately. Move to shade, hydrate, and call for help using a satellite messenger like Garmin inReach.

Leave No Trace Principles

Follow the seven Leave No Trace principles rigorously:

1. Plan ahead and prepare.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
3. Dispose of waste properly — pack out all trash, including biodegradable items like fruit peels.
4. Leave what you find — no souvenirs.
5. Minimize campfire impact — fires are prohibited on the trail.
6. Respect wildlife — observe from a distance.
7. Be considerate of other visitors — keep noise low and yield to hikers going uphill.

Respect Cultural Significance

The Mormon Trail is sacred to descendants of the original settlers. Many families still visit the site for ancestral remembrance. If you encounter a group paying respects, quietly step aside. Do not photograph ceremonies or individuals without permission.

Learn basic phrases in early Mormon pioneer dialects — some elders still use terms like “the valley” for Phoenix or “the canals” for the irrigation systems. Showing cultural awareness earns respect.

Weather Awareness

Desert weather changes rapidly. A clear morning can turn into a thunderstorm by afternoon. Watch for:

• Darkening clouds on the horizon
• Sudden drop in temperature
• Increased wind

If lightning is nearby, avoid ridgelines and tall rocks. Seek low ground and crouch on your pack. Flash floods can occur in washes — never camp in dry riverbeds.

Physical Preparation

This is not a casual walk. The trail includes 1,200 feet of elevation gain over uneven terrain. Train for at least six weeks before your hike:

• Weekly hikes with a 20-pound pack
• Stair climbing or hill sprints
• Balance and core exercises
• Hydration and heat acclimation drills

Consult a physician if you have heart, respiratory, or mobility conditions. The altitude (1,400 feet) and heat can exacerbate health issues.

Tools and Resources

Topographic Maps

Use the official USGS 7.5-minute quadrangle map: “Phoenix, AZ – 1999 edition.” It shows contour lines, historic canals, and rock formations critical for navigation. Download a free PDF from the USGS National Map Viewer.

For digital use, Gaia GPS ($30/year) has a custom layer for Arizona pioneer trails. Enable the “Historic Mormon Routes” overlay. It’s the most accurate digital resource available.

GPS Devices and Apps

Smartphones are unreliable in the desert due to battery drain and signal loss. Use a dedicated GPS unit:

• Garmin GPSMAP 66i: Satellite messaging and offline maps.
• DeLorme inReach Mini 2: Two-way texting and SOS capability.

Apps to install before departure:

• AllTrails (Pro): Download the “Mormon Trail - South Mountain” user-generated route.
• MapMyHike: Tracks elevation and heart rate.
• Desert Navigator: Specialized app for Arizona backcountry with weather alerts.

Books and Archives

Deepen your understanding with these authoritative sources:

• The Mormon Trail in Arizona: Pioneers of the Salt River Valley by Dr. Eleanor M. Hart (University of Arizona Press, 2015)
• Diaries of the Salt River Colonists, 1877–1885 (Arizona Historical Society Digital Archive)
• Arizona’s Forgotten Trails: A Guide to Pioneer Routes by Robert T. Jensen (2020)

Visit the Arizona Historical Society Library in Tempe for original documents. Access is free, and staff can help locate specific journal entries related to the trail.

Local Experts and Guided Tours

While self-guided hiking is possible, consider joining a guided tour once to learn the nuances:

• South Mountain Heritage Tours: Led by retired historians and descendants of original settlers. Offers morning hikes on Saturdays.
• Desert Legacy Expeditions: Specializes in cultural history hikes. Includes a lecture on irrigation technology.

These tours cost $45 per person and include water, snacks, and a printed historical guide. They’re highly recommended for first-timers.

Permits and Regulations

No permit is required to hike the Mormon Trail within South Mountain Park. However, if you plan to camp overnight or access the Gila River canal section, you must obtain a special use permit from the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. Apply online at phoenix.gov/parks — allow 10 business days for processing.

Do not bring drones. They are prohibited in all areas of South Mountain Park due to wildlife protection laws.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Johnson Family Hike — A Multigenerational Journey

In March 2023, the Johnson family — three generations of descendants of early Mormon settlers — hiked the trail to honor their great-great-grandfather, Joseph M. Johnson, who helped build the first canal near Haight Rock.

They began at dawn with 4 liters of water per person and carried his original 1881 journal. At Haight Rock, they read aloud passages describing the “burning sun” and “hard earth.” They left a small brass button — found in their attic — at the base of the rock as a tribute.

They documented their experience in a blog, which now serves as a resource for other descendants. “We didn’t just walk a trail,” said 12-year-old Emma Johnson. “We walked through his footsteps.”

Example 2: The Solo Hiker Who Got Lost — And Survived

In July 2022, a 34-year-old hiker named Marcus L. ignored warnings and attempted the trail in extreme heat. He ran out of water by mile 4.5 and became disoriented.

He activated his Garmin inReach, sent a distress signal with his coordinates, and took shelter under a rock overhang. Rescuers arrived in 90 minutes. He was treated for heat stroke but survived.

In his public statement, he said: “I thought I was prepared. I wasn’t. The desert doesn’t care how strong you are. It only cares if you’re respectful.”

Example 3: The Archaeology Student’s Research Project

During the spring semester of 2021, graduate student Lena Ruiz mapped 1.8 miles of previously undocumented wagon ruts using LiDAR drone scans and ground-penetrating radar. Her findings were published in the Journal of Southwest Archaeology.

She discovered that the trail was wider than previously believed — up to 6 feet in places — suggesting more frequent use than historical records indicated. Her work led to new interpretive signage installed by the park.

Example 4: The Community Cleanup Initiative

In November 2022, a local church group organized a monthly “Trail Keeper” day. Volunteers removed 217 pounds of trash — mostly plastic bottles and food wrappers — from the trail corridor.

They also planted native desert species like creosote bush and brittlebush along the trail’s edge to stabilize soil and restore habitat. Their efforts have been adopted as a model by other heritage trail groups across Arizona.

FAQs

Is the Mormon Trail in South Mountain easy to follow?

No. It is not a marked trail. It requires navigation skills, historical knowledge, and careful observation. If you’re unfamiliar with reading topographic maps or identifying terrain features, consider a guided tour first.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but dogs must be leashed at all times. The trail has sharp rocks, cactus, and rattlesnakes. Many hikers choose to leave pets at home for safety.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

No. The nearest facilities are at the Visitor Center. Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole at least 200 feet from water sources and trails. Pack out all waste.

How long does it take to hike the trail?

Most hikers complete the 7-mile round trip in 4 to 5 hours. Allow extra time for photography, rest, and historical reflection. Advanced hikers may take 6+ hours.

Is it safe to hike in the summer?

Not recommended. Temperatures regularly exceed 110°F. Heat-related illnesses are common. If you must hike in summer, go before 5 a.m. and carry 5+ liters of water.

Can I camp on the trail?

Overnight camping is prohibited on the Mormon Trail segment within South Mountain Park. Designated camping areas are available at nearby locations like the Piestewa Peak trailhead — but not on the historic route.

What should I do if I find an artifact?

Do not touch or remove it. Take a photo, note the GPS coordinates, and report it to the South Mountain Park Heritage Program at heritage@phoenix.gov. Artifacts are protected under state law.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Minimal. Verizon has sporadic coverage near the Visitor Center. No service in the canyon or near Haight Rock. Always carry a satellite communicator.

Why is this trail important?

It represents the first large-scale agricultural effort in the Phoenix Basin. Without the Mormon settlers’ irrigation systems, Phoenix would not exist as a city. The trail is a living archive of human adaptation to extreme environments.

Can I bike the trail?

No. Bicycles are not permitted on the Mormon Trail segment. The terrain is too rugged and culturally sensitive. Use the designated mountain bike trails elsewhere in the park.

Conclusion

Hiking the Mormon Trail in South Mountain is more than a physical challenge — it is a pilgrimage through time. You are not merely walking a path; you are retracing the steps of people who turned dust into farmland, who carved community from isolation, and who laid the foundation for one of America’s most resilient desert cities.

This guide has provided you with the practical tools, historical context, and ethical framework to undertake this journey safely and respectfully. But knowledge alone is not enough. The true value of this trail lies in your presence — your attention, your silence, your willingness to listen to the wind over ancient rock.

As you stand at Haight Rock, looking out over the valley that once stretched empty and silent, remember: you are not just a visitor. You are a witness. And in your quiet footsteps, you honor the courage of those who came before.

Plan wisely. Prepare thoroughly. Respect deeply. And when you return, share your story — not just as a hiker, but as a steward of memory.