How to Hike North Mountain in Phoenix

Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, North Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona, offers one of the most accessible yet rewarding hiking experiences in the Southwest. Known for its panoramic views of the city skyline, rugged desert terrain, and diverse wildlife, North Mountain is a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking an authentic desert adventure without leaving the urban core. Unlike more crowded trails in nearby Camelback Mountain or South Mountain Park, North Mountain provides a quieter, less commercialized environment where hikers can connect with nature while enjoying the benefits of proximity to downtown Phoenix.

This guide is designed to help you safely and confidently hike North Mountain, whether you're a first-time desert hiker or a seasoned trail enthusiast. We’ll walk you through every critical step—from planning your route and preparing your gear to understanding trail conditions and respecting the desert ecosystem. With over 15 miles of interconnected trails and multiple access points, North Mountain can be intimidating to navigate without proper knowledge. This comprehensive tutorial eliminates guesswork, equipping you with the insights needed to make the most of your hike while minimizing environmental impact and personal risk.

Why is this hike important? Beyond physical exercise and scenic beauty, hiking North Mountain fosters a deeper appreciation for the resilience of desert ecosystems. The Sonoran Desert is one of the most biologically diverse deserts in the world, home to iconic species like saguaro cacti, Gila monsters, and desert bighorn sheep. By learning how to hike responsibly here, you contribute to the preservation of this unique landscape. Moreover, North Mountain serves as a vital green corridor in an increasingly urbanized region, offering mental health benefits and a sanctuary from city noise and stress.

In this guide, you’ll discover a step-by-step approach to planning and executing your hike, proven best practices for safety and sustainability, essential tools and resources to enhance your experience, real-life examples from experienced hikers, and answers to the most common questions. Whether you’re hiking at sunrise to catch the golden light over the valley or exploring at dusk as the temperature cools, this guide ensures you’re prepared for every phase of your journey.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose Your Trailhead

North Mountain is not a single trail but a network of interconnected paths, each offering a different experience. The most popular trailheads are located along North Mountain Parkway and provide varying levels of difficulty. The two primary access points are the North Mountain Park Trailhead (off 35th Avenue) and the North Mountain Nature Preserve Trailhead (off Dunlap Avenue).

The 35th Avenue trailhead is ideal for beginners and families. It provides a paved parking area, restrooms, and a well-marked trail that ascends gently along the eastern slope. This route connects to the main ridge trail and offers a moderate 2.5-mile round trip with approximately 600 feet of elevation gain. For those seeking a more challenging ascent, the Dunlap Avenue trailhead offers steeper switchbacks and direct access to the summit ridge. This route is roughly 3.2 miles round trip with 900 feet of elevation gain and is recommended for hikers with prior desert experience.

Before choosing your trailhead, consider your fitness level, time of day, and weather conditions. If you’re hiking during summer months, opt for the 35th Avenue route as it has more shade from mesquite and palo verde trees. For panoramic views and a longer workout, the Dunlap route is unmatched.

Step 2: Plan Your Timing

Timing is one of the most critical factors in hiking North Mountain successfully. The Phoenix area experiences extreme temperatures, especially from late May through September, when daytime highs regularly exceed 105°F (40°C). Hiking during these months requires extreme caution.

The optimal hiking window is between October and April, when temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Within that window, aim to start your hike between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM. Early morning hikes allow you to complete the trail before the sun reaches its peak intensity and reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Additionally, morning light enhances photography opportunities and provides better visibility for spotting wildlife.

If you prefer evening hikes, begin no later than 4:30 PM during winter months. Sunset occurs around 5:30 PM in December and 6:30 PM in March, so plan accordingly. Never hike after dark unless you’re equipped with a headlamp, extra batteries, and a detailed trail map. Trails are not lit, and navigation becomes hazardous without proper lighting.

Step 3: Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear can mean the difference between a comfortable hike and a dangerous situation. Here’s a non-negotiable checklist:

• Water: Carry at least one liter per person for short hikes (under 3 miles) and two liters for longer or steeper routes. In summer, increase this to three liters regardless of distance. Use a hydration bladder or durable water bottles that won’t leak in your pack.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners with excellent grip. The terrain includes loose scree, sharp volcanic rock, and uneven desert soil. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or worn-out sneakers.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Light-colored, moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal. Long sleeves and pants protect against sunburn and prickly vegetation like cholla cactus. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses are essential.
• Sun protection: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen 30 minutes before departure and reapply every two hours. Don’t forget your ears, neck, and the backs of your knees.
• Navigation tools: Even if you’re familiar with the trail, carry a physical map and a fully charged smartphone with offline maps downloaded via AllTrails or Gaia GPS. Cell service is unreliable on the upper ridges.
• First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for cactus spines), and blister treatment. A small emergency blanket can be lifesaving if you’re stranded after sunset.
• Snacks: Bring high-energy, non-perishable snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or dried fruit. Avoid sugary snacks that cause energy crashes.

Do not rely on finding water or shade along the trail. There are no natural water sources, and shade is sparse beyond the lower trail sections.

Step 4: Start Your Hike

Begin your hike by walking the designated trail markers. Do not create shortcuts or follow animal paths—they often lead to unstable terrain or private property. Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and protect native vegetation.

As you ascend, take frequent breaks—every 20 to 30 minutes. Use this time to hydrate, check your footing, and observe your surroundings. The desert rewards patience. Look for signs of wildlife: tracks in the sand, feathers near rock outcrops, or the silhouette of a red-tailed hawk circling overhead.

On the 35th Avenue route, the trail climbs steadily through a desert wash lined with creosote bushes and brittlebush. Around the 0.7-mile mark, you’ll reach a junction. Stay right to continue toward the summit ridge. Left leads to a loop that rejoins later but adds unnecessary distance for first-timers.

On the Dunlap route, the trail becomes noticeably steeper after the first 0.5 miles. Use your hands for balance on rocky sections. The final 0.3 miles involve scrambling over boulders—this is where many hikers turn back. If you’re uncomfortable with exposure, it’s perfectly acceptable to stop at the ridge overlook, which offers 360-degree views without the technical climb.

Step 5: Reach the Summit

The summit of North Mountain stands at 2,670 feet above sea level and offers sweeping views of downtown Phoenix, the Salt River, and the McDowell Mountains to the northeast. On clear days, you can see as far as the White Tank Mountains to the west.

Take time to rest and enjoy the view. This is not a race. Find a flat rock to sit, hydrate slowly, and eat a small snack. Avoid sitting directly on hot rock surfaces—use a lightweight towel or pad.

Photographers should be especially mindful of the light. The golden hour—just after sunrise or before sunset—casts long shadows across the desert floor and highlights the textures of the saguaros and boulders. If you’re staying for sunset, ensure you have enough time to descend safely before darkness falls.

Step 6: Descend Safely

Descending can be more taxing on your knees than ascending. Use trekking poles if you have them—they reduce joint impact by up to 30%. If you don’t, use the natural contours of the trail: step down with your heel first, and avoid leaping between rocks.

Watch for loose gravel and scree, especially on the return leg. Many slips occur on the way down when hikers are fatigued. Keep your eyes on the trail, not the view.

If you took the Dunlap route up, consider returning via the 35th Avenue trail for a different perspective and a gentler descent. This creates a loop and adds variety to your hike.

Step 7: Post-Hike Care

After completing your hike, rehydrate thoroughly. Drink water over the next hour, not all at once. Eat a balanced meal with protein and complex carbohydrates to aid muscle recovery.

Check your body for ticks, cactus spines, or insect bites. Cholla cactus, in particular, can detach and embed tiny spines in skin or clothing. Use tweezers to remove them gently. If you experience dizziness, nausea, or confusion, seek shade and medical attention immediately—these are signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Finally, clean your gear. Rinse off dirt and sweat from your shoes and backpack. Desert dust contains minerals that can degrade fabric over time if left untreated.

Best Practices

Leave No Trace Principles

North Mountain is part of a protected desert ecosystem, and every hiker has a responsibility to preserve it. Follow the seven Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan ahead and prepare. Know the rules, weather, and trail conditions before you go.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces. Stick to established trails. Avoid walking on cryptobiotic soil—those dark, crusty patches on the ground. They take decades to form and are critical to desert health.
3. Dispose of waste properly. Pack out all trash, including food wrappers, tissue, and even biodegradable items like orange peels. They don’t decompose quickly in the desert.
4. Leave what you find. Do not pick flowers, move rocks, or carve into trees. Even small actions have cumulative effects.
5. Minimize campfire impact. Fires are prohibited on North Mountain trails. Use a stove if cooking nearby.
6. Respect wildlife. Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them. Saguaro cacti may look like sculptures, but they’re living organisms that take 75 years to grow their first arm.
7. Be considerate of other visitors. Keep noise levels low. Yield to uphill hikers. Share the trail with cyclists and equestrians where permitted.

Weather Awareness

Phoenix’s desert climate is unpredictable. A clear morning can turn into a sudden thunderstorm by afternoon, especially between July and September during monsoon season. Watch for darkening clouds, distant thunder, or a sudden drop in temperature. If you hear thunder, descend immediately. Lightning strikes are common on exposed ridges.

Flash floods are another hidden danger. Even if it’s not raining where you are, a storm miles away can send a wall of water through dry washes. Never cross a flowing arroyo. Wait it out or find a safe detour.

Hydration and Heat Management

Dehydration is the leading cause of emergency rescues on North Mountain. Your body loses fluids faster in dry heat because sweat evaporates quickly, making it harder to notice you’re losing water.

Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, headache, dark urine, dizziness, and reduced sweating. Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and cool, moist skin. Heat stroke—a medical emergency—presents with hot, dry skin, confusion, and loss of consciousness.

Prevention is key. Drink water before you feel thirsty. Use electrolyte tablets or sports drinks on longer hikes to replenish sodium and potassium. Wear a damp bandana around your neck to help cool your body. Seek shade during peak heat hours—even 15 minutes can make a difference.

Trail Etiquette

North Mountain sees a mix of hikers, mountain bikers, and dog walkers. Always yield to uphill hikers. If you’re biking, announce yourself politely when passing (“On your left!”). Keep dogs on a leash at all times—wildlife can be startled, and some animals carry diseases transmissible to pets.

Respect quiet zones. Many hikers come for solitude and reflection. Avoid loud music, phone calls, or shouting. Use headphones if you need audio.

Group Safety

Hike with a partner whenever possible. If you must go solo, leave your itinerary with someone reliable: trailhead, expected return time, and route taken. Consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger like Garmin inReach for emergencies.

Never let someone in your group push beyond their limits. Turn back if someone shows signs of distress. The summit isn’t worth risking health or safety.

Tools and Resources

Mobile Applications

Technology can significantly enhance your hiking experience. Here are the most reliable apps for North Mountain:

• AllTrails: Offers detailed trail maps, user reviews, elevation profiles, and real-time GPS tracking. The “North Mountain Loop” and “North Mountain Summit via Dunlap” trails are well-documented with photos and recent condition reports.
• Gaia GPS: Ideal for offline use. Download the USGS topo maps for Arizona. This app works even without cell service and allows you to mark waypoints for future hikes.
• Weather Underground: Provides hyperlocal forecasts for Phoenix. Use it to check temperature, UV index, and storm predictions for your specific trailhead.
• Desert Botanical Garden App: While not a hiking app, it includes a desert plant identifier that helps you recognize saguaros, ocotillos, and jojoba shrubs as you hike.

Official Resources

The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department manages North Mountain Park. Visit their official website for:

• Trail closure notices due to maintenance or wildlife activity
• Seasonal alerts (e.g., rattlesnake activity in spring)
• Permits for group hikes or photography sessions
• Volunteer opportunities for trail maintenance

Also check the Arizona Game and Fish Department website for information on desert wildlife, including how to respond to encounters with snakes, coyotes, or mountain lions.

Guidebooks and Maps

For those who prefer analog tools:

• “Hiking Arizona’s Phoenix Area” by Michael Lanza – Includes detailed trail descriptions and historical context for North Mountain.
• USGS Topographic Map: Phoenix North 7.5-minute Quadrangle – Available for free download or purchase as a waterproof paper copy.
• Arizona Hiking Trails: A Guide to the Best Hikes in the State – Features photos and difficulty ratings for all major Phoenix trails.

Local Communities and Clubs

Joining a local hiking group can deepen your experience. Organizations like the Arizona Hiking Club and Phoenix Outdoor Adventures host weekly group hikes on North Mountain. These groups often include experienced guides who share tips on plant identification, navigation, and desert safety.

Facebook groups like “Phoenix Hikers & Trail Runners” are also active, with members posting real-time trail conditions, photos, and safety alerts. Many posts include videos of recent hikes, giving you a visual sense of what to expect.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah’s First Desert Hike

Sarah, a 32-year-old software engineer from Tempe, had never hiked in the desert before. She chose the North Mountain 35th Avenue trail on a crisp January morning. “I thought it would be easy,” she says. “But the sun hit me harder than I expected—even in winter.”

Sarah underestimated her water needs and ran out after 1.5 miles. She found shade under a mesquite tree, drank the last of her electrolyte drink, and waited 20 minutes before continuing. “I learned the hard way: carry more than you think you need.”

She reached the summit and described the view as “like standing on the edge of a giant painting.” She returned the next week with a hydration pack, hat, and a friend. “Now I bring a snack, a bandana, and a trash bag. I leave nothing behind.”

Example 2: Carlos and the Rattlesnake Encounter

Carlos, a 45-year-old retired firefighter, was hiking the Dunlap route in April when he spotted a Western diamondback rattlesnake coiled on the trail. “I froze,” he recalls. “I remembered training: don’t run, don’t provoke. Just back away slowly.”

He gave the snake a 10-foot buffer, circled wide, and continued. “It wasn’t aggressive. Just sunning itself. But I didn’t know that then.”

Afterward, Carlos shared his experience on a local hiking forum, advising others to wear high-top boots and listen for the rattle. “Most snakes want to avoid you. But you have to assume they’re there. Look where you step.”

Example 3: The Family Hike

The Rodriguez family—parents and two kids aged 7 and 10—hiked North Mountain on a Saturday in November. They started at 7:00 AM, packed snacks, water, and a small first aid kit. The kids carried their own small backpacks with a water bottle and a nature journal.

“We stopped every 15 minutes to look for animal tracks,” says mom Elena. “We found coyote prints, lizard scat, and even a shed snake skin. The kids were obsessed.”

They didn’t reach the summit but stopped at the ridge overlook. “We didn’t need to climb higher to feel accomplished,” Elena says. “We took photos, ate oranges, and watched the sunrise paint the valley gold. That’s the beauty of North Mountain—it’s not about how far you go. It’s about how present you are.”

Example 4: The Monsoon Emergency

In July, a group of five hikers started their ascent at 4:00 PM. The sky was clear. By 5:30 PM, dark clouds rolled in. Rain began falling, and within minutes, the wash below them turned into a rushing stream.

One hiker, unaware of the danger, tried to cross. “The water was waist-high and moving fast,” says group leader Marcus. “We pulled him back. We huddled under a rock overhang for 45 minutes until the flood passed.”

They descended carefully, soaked and shaken. “We didn’t check the weather forecast properly,” Marcus admits. “We thought Phoenix was dry. But monsoons don’t care about your plans.”

Since then, Marcus and his group now check the National Weather Service’s flash flood outlook before every hike. “It’s not just about the sun anymore. It’s about the whole system.”

FAQs

Is North Mountain safe for beginners?

Yes, North Mountain is safe for beginners if you choose the right trailhead and follow safety guidelines. The 35th Avenue route is moderate and well-marked. Start early, carry water, wear proper shoes, and don’t push beyond your limits. Many first-time hikers complete this trail successfully.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, dogs are allowed on North Mountain trails but must be kept on a leash at all times. Bring extra water for your pet and clean up after them. Be aware that desert heat can burn their paw pads—consider booties in summer.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

Restrooms are available at the main trailheads (35th Avenue and Dunlap Avenue) but not along the trail itself. Plan accordingly.

When is the best time to see wildflowers?

Wildflowers typically bloom between late February and April, depending on winter rainfall. Look for desert lilies, brittlebush, and purple lupine along the lower trail sections. The best viewing is after a rainy season.

Are there any dangerous animals I should worry about?

Common desert wildlife includes rattlesnakes, scorpions, and Gila monsters. While encounters are rare, always watch where you step and reach. Do not provoke animals. Most will retreat if given space. Carry a first aid kit with tweezers for removing cactus spines or stingers.

Can I hike North Mountain at night?

Technically yes, but it’s not recommended unless you’re experienced with night hiking and have proper lighting, a map, and a companion. Trails are unlit, and visibility is low. The risk of injury or getting lost increases significantly.

Do I need a permit to hike North Mountain?

No permit is required for individual hikers. Group hikes of 10 or more people should notify the City of Phoenix Parks Department for safety coordination.

How long does it take to hike North Mountain?

Most hikers complete the 35th Avenue route in 1.5 to 2.5 hours round trip. The Dunlap route takes 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on pace and stops. Summit views are worth the extra time.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stay calm. Stop moving. Use your phone to check your location on an offline map. If you have no signal, retrace your steps to the last known landmark. Do not climb higher in confusion. If you’re still disoriented after 15 minutes, call 911 and provide your best estimate of location (e.g., “near the red rock outcrop on the ridge”).

Can I camp on North Mountain?

No camping is permitted on North Mountain. It is a day-use park only. Overnight stays are prohibited to protect the environment and ensure public safety.

Conclusion

Hiking North Mountain in Phoenix is more than a physical activity—it’s a journey into the heart of the Sonoran Desert. With its accessible trails, breathtaking views, and rich biodiversity, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature just minutes from the urban sprawl. But this experience demands respect: for the land, for the climate, and for your own limits.

By following the step-by-step guide, adhering to best practices, utilizing the recommended tools, and learning from real hikers’ experiences, you transform a simple walk into a meaningful, safe, and sustainable adventure. Whether you’re seeking solitude, exercise, or a deeper understanding of desert ecology, North Mountain delivers.

Remember: the desert does not forgive carelessness. But it rewards mindfulness. Pack your water, check the forecast, wear your hat, and step lightly. The trail will remember your respect.

So lace up your boots, fill your bottles, and head out. North Mountain is waiting—not to be conquered, but to be experienced.