Overview
South Mountain Park is the largest municipal park in the United States, offering stunning desert landscapes, hiking trails, and panoramic views of Phoenix. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Home to ancient Hohokam petroglyphs and offering some of the best views of the Phoenix valley.
Location
Address
10919 S Central Ave., Phoenix, Arizona
Neighborhood: South Mountain Village
Coordinates
33.392100, -111.971300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
October-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
warm, pleasant
- • wildflowers
- • clear skies
summer
hot, sunny
- • extended daylight
autumn
warm, cooling
- • fall foliage (desert varieties)
- • cool breezes
winter
cool, mild
- • holiday lights at entrance
- • cool, crisp air
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check weather forecast
- Bring plenty of water
- Wear sun protection
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high
- • Heat exhaustion
- • Dehydration
Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor center
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Hiking attire, Comfortable, breathable clothing, Hiking shoes or boots, Inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but recommended for guided tours
- • Official website
- • 24 hours in advance for tours
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
South Mountain Park App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Trail maps, Audio guide, Parking info
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Parking lot
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 10 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Stunning desert landscapes and historical significance
Historical Significance: Home to ancient Hohokam petroglyphs and historic sites
Insider Tips
- Free entry for Arizona residents on certain days
- Best sunrise views from Dobbins Lookout
Local Recommendations
- • Try local coffee at nearby cafes
- • Ask park rangers for trail advice
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Dobbins Lookout
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Wide-angle shots
Result: Stunning desert and city views
National Register of Historic Places site
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Low-angle shots
Result: Historic and scenic shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Phoenix Mountains Preserve
Distance: 5 km
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Park
Desert Botanical Garden
Distance: 10 km
Walking: 2 hours
Type: Garden
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Hike to Dobbins Lookout"
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Bring plenty of water"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (23)
Half-Day Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Optional Hotel Pickup
Sedona Boynton Canyon Trolley Tour
4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim
Grand Canyon South Rim Sunset Tour with Dinner included
Stunning Sunset or Sunrise Guided Hiking Adventure in Phoenix
2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure
Classic Cave Tour at Colossal Cave
3 Hour Back-Road Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate By-Pass at 9:30 am
Sedona with Jerome and Montezuma Castle One-Day Van Tour
Taco Bike Tour
Arizona Ghost Towns and Wild-West Day Trip from Las Vegas
PRIVATE Grand Canyon from Sedona
Sedona to Grand Canyon Day Trip
From Phoenix-Small-Group Full Day Tour in Sedona and Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Full Day Private Tour & Hike
Small-Group Grand Canyon Day Tour from Flagstaff
Small Group Day Tour to Grand Canyon from Flagstaff
Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Hiking Tour • South Kaibab Trail
Guided Hike: Saguaro Lake View
Guided Hike: Lime Kiln Desert Hike on the Lower Salt River
Private Grand Canyon with Sedona Tour from Phoenix
From Sedona Flagstaff Small Group Grand Canyon Complete Tour
Awesome Standup Paddleboard Adventure in a Sonoran Desert Oasis
Quick Info
Available Tours
3
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$0 (parking fee applies)