North Mountain Park

North Mountain Park is a beautiful park in Phoenix that is surrounded by urban neighborhoods and features crisp views of surrounding peaks. It has a number of hiking trails that range from barrier-free to difficult and is home to the second-highest peak in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Shaw Butte. See more.

What to Expect

Despite the Arizona heat, this park is a top summer destination with stunning natural landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. Make sure to wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water when visiting this unique region.

Located near the Metrocenter Village, this popular park is a great spot for hiking, trail running, and walking. The park also offers a variety of picnic areas and trails for the entire family. This is one of the best Phoenix hiking parks for families.

The Shaw Butte Trail is a moderate hike that provides breathtaking views of the north, south, and east. The trail is fairly steep and rocky in parts, so it can be difficult for some hikers. During the day, you’ll see locals cramming in a quick workout by hiking, trail running and even pushing strollers up and down the paved trail. The area is also a popular sunset hike location for the area’s gorgeous glowy skies.

Parking

Phoenix Mountains Preserve offers hiking trails for visitors of all experience levels. While Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain steal the spotlight, there are other enticing routes to explore, including North Mountain and Shaw Butte.

For hikers who prefer a less strenuous trail, Quartz Ridge Trail is an excellent option. This 6-kilometer path boasts manageable elevation gains and showcases a variety of large granite and quartz stones. It also provides scenic views of the Sonoran Desert.

The summit of North Mountain is a popular place to see birds, particularly Cactus Wrens -- Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus. This species requires more food than can be found in this habitat, so they gather near picnic areas to forage on crumbs and handouts from visitors. Explore more!

Hiking Trails

North Mountain Park features some of the best hiking trails in Arizona. The park and adjacent Sonoita Creek State Natural Area are perfect for hiking, biking, and a variety of other activities.

The park has a number of trails that range from paved, to dirt and rocky with some steep grades. The trails are used by hikers, runners, and strollers alike. Hikers can choose to do small segments of the trail at a time or complete a loop hike to return to their parking location.

The most popular hike is the 2.2-mile out-and-back trail to Shaw Butte. The trail is paved and offers stunning views of the surrounding city and Phoenix mountains. At the top of the trail, you will find a few satellite towers. Hikers can veer off to the left around the towers and descend on a rough, rocky trail or hike back on the paved path they started on. This is a moderately difficult trial and is not recommended for children or those with mobility challenges.

Facilities

North Mountain Park is home to some of the most scenic trails in the Phoenix area, including a paved trail that is often used by families with small children and dogs (on leashes). The Park also offers summit climbs and other hiking opportunities of varying distances and difficulties.

The Park is a popular location for picnickers. Picnic ramadas are available throughout the Park, however, reservations are required for some. The Park’s ramadas are a great way to take in the view and relax before or after your hike.

With amazing hiking trails, incredible resorts and golf courses, upscale restaurants, and a top-ranked university, it’s no wonder that North Mountain Village is a sought-after neighborhood for everyone from college students to young professionals to families. Its beautiful mountains and parks, upscale dining, and easy Metro Valley access make it a perfect place to call home. Definitely worth checking out!

Driving directions from Pressure Power Pros to North Mountain Park

Driving directions from North Mountain Park to Castles N' Coasters