Lookout Mountain

A short, steep summit trail in north Phoenix with views toward Shadow Mountain, North Mountain and Scottsdale, popular at sunrise.

The City describes Lookout Mountain as a summit without the crowds or the climb of nearby Piestewa Peak. The trail switchbacks to a saddle, then gets rocky, with a few spots where you'll use your hands. The top looks over north Phoenix in every direction, and the 16th St. lot can fill before sunrise.

Parking

The trailhead lot on 16th St. can fill before sunrise; street parking nearby where signs allow.

Trailhead: Lookout Mountain Trailhead (16th St.).

Fee

Free

Dogs

Dogs on leash

Shade

Not confirmed yet

Hazards

• No dogs on City trails when it’s above 100°F.
• No specific hazards recorded beyond desert heat.

Best months

1. J
2. F
3. M
4. A
5. M
6. J
7. J
8. A
9. S
10. O
11. N
12. D

October to April, when the average high in Phoenix is under 90°F.

Trail map

Phoenix Mountains Preserve trail map · City of Phoenix (PDF)

Sources

6 sources · last verified Sep 24, 2026. Report a change

Photo: Patrick Alexander · CC0

Where each fact comes from

• Phoenix Mountains Preserve trail map — City of Phoenix (PDF) checked 2026-09-27
• Lookout and Shadow Mountain Trails — City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation checked 2026-09-24
• Hiking and Trails (leash and heat rules) — City of Phoenix checked 2026-09-24
• Free: the City lists hours and rules for Lookout Mountain but no fee checked 2026-09-24
• Lookout Mountain Summit Trail — 10Adventures (updated 2026-09-01) checked 2026-09-24
• Best months: normal high under 90°F, Phoenix Sky Harbor 1991–2020 (NOAA NCEI) checked 2026-09-24