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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
189 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.9 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Phoenix Mountain Preserve Loop

Measurement:

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Table of contents

This loop hike leads you through an easier, flatter section of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. If you’re looking less for big mountain climbs and more for laid-back desert scenery, this trail is a great pick. We rate it as moderate, but it leans on the easy side of moderate. Except for a few rocky stretches, there are no significant challenges to note. Dogs are welcome on this trail as long as they’re kept on leash.

Route Description for Phoenix Mountain Preserve Loop

The Phoenix Mountain Preserve Loop is a relaxed trail that explores a flatter route in the preserve situated between East Thunderbird and North Cave Creek. This is a good pick for beginners and families with kids because of its forgiving elevation profile. It’s a generally well-kept trail, but it does have some rocky sections.

You’ll need to deal with a bit of traffic noise on this hike, but it’s just one of the few downsides to having hiking areas so easily accessible within the city. Watch your step on rocky sections of trail and make sure you bring water with you while you hike.

From the trailhead, you’ll need to cross the road heading east. Hike to where the loop splits. Our route goes clockwise, so take a left and then go straight through the multi-way junction. You’ll hike alongside the low hills towards the intersection of the two roads. Loop from north to south and then turn west to begin your return trip, hiking towards the large ridge and then taking a right at its base to return to the base of the loop. From here, head back towards the road and the trailhead.

Getting to the Phoenix Mountain Preserve Loop Trailhead

The trailhead for this hike is near the North Mountain Visitor Center off N 7th Street.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    October-May

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Loop

Phoenix Mountain Preserve Loop Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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