South Mountain Preserve

South Mountain Preserve is a vast urban park and natural area located in the southern part of Phoenix, Arizona. Spanning more than 16,000 acres, it is one of the largest municipal parks in the nation, featuring rugged desert terrain, towering mountain ridges, and expansive desert landscapes. The preserve protects a portion of the South Mountain range, which rises sharply out of the desert floor and provides sweeping views over the Phoenix metropolitan area. The area is ecologically important, hosting native Sonoran Desert plants such as palo verde, saguaro cactus, creosote bush, and a variety of wildlife including mule deer, roadrunners, and desert bighorn sheep. Historically, South Mountain was sacred ground for local indigenous peoples and contains numerous petroglyphs and archaeological sites that reveal centuries of human presence. Recreational opportunities abound with more than 50 miles of multi-use trails designed for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Popular trails include the challenging National Trail, the Hidden Valley Trail, and the scenic Mormon Trail, each offering unique desert and city vistas. Key landmarks include Dobbins Lookout, the highest accessible point in the park with panoramic views, and the Telegraph Pass entrance, a gateway to high desert terrain. The preserve is popular year-round but especially frequented in cooler months, attracting day hikers, mountain bikers, and nature photographers. Its proximity to Phoenix makes it a convenient outdoor escape from the urban environment, inviting a diverse range of visitors to experience the Sonoran Desert close to home.