Lookout Mountain Summit Trail

About Lookout Mountain Summit Trail

Lookout Mountain is one of the best-kept secrets in the Phoenix hiking scene. Tucked into a north Phoenix neighborhood near the intersection of 16th Street and Thunderbird Road, this compact summit trail delivers big views for a modest investment of time and energy. It is the perfect trail for a quick morning workout or an introduction to Phoenix summit hiking without the crowds and intensity of Camelback or Piestewa.

The trailhead has a small parking lot that fills up on weekend mornings but is rarely a problem on weekdays. From the lot, the trail heads directly uphill with little preamble. The path is rocky and somewhat steep from the start, climbing through desert terrain dotted with saguaros, chollas, and brittlebush.

The footing is a mix of packed dirt and loose rock, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Within the first quarter mile, you gain enough elevation to see over the surrounding neighborhoods, and the views start to open up. The trail follows a series of switchbacks that keep the grade manageable, though there are a few steeper sections where the path goes more directly up the hillside.

The total elevation gain of 500 feet packed into just over half a mile means this trail is steeper than it might sound on paper. At the summit, you are rewarded with surprisingly expansive views for a mountain that sits at a relatively modest elevation. To the south, the Phoenix skyline and South Mountain are clearly visible.

Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak rise to the southeast, and on clear days you can see the Superstition Mountains and the Mazatzal Mountains on the distant horizon. To the north, the expanse of suburban development gives way to the raw desert of the Sonoran Preserve. What makes Lookout Mountain special is its local neighborhood feel.

You will encounter regulars who hike it daily, walking their dogs and greeting fellow hikers by name. It has none of the tourist energy of Camelback and instead feels like a community gathering place that happens to sit on top of a mountain. Dogs are welcome on leash, and the trail sees plenty of four-legged hikers.

The trail is short enough that water requirements are minimal, but you should still carry some, especially in warmer months. There is no shade on the route, so plan your timing accordingly. The descent requires some care on the rocky sections, particularly if you are hiking in the early morning before full daylight.

For anyone staying in north Phoenix who wants a satisfying hike without driving across town, Lookout Mountain is an outstanding choice. Pair it with breakfast at one of the nearby restaurants on Greenway Parkway for a perfect morning.

Best Time to Hike

Best Season: October through May

For the most comfortable experience on Lookout Mountain Summit Trail, plan your hike during the recommended season. In the warmer months, start early in the morning to avoid peak heat, especially on exposed desert trails. Always check current weather conditions and trail status before heading out.