Described below as an out and back, but a loop on trail #44 is nearly identical mileage from the northwest ramada. The north route to the high point is a popular out and back hike. The south route has some loose sections on a 0.14 mile section that's a steep 44 degree grade.
If you're looking for a nice, short, inner city, family hike this isn't your bag. The average grade on this trail is 15 degrees. Camelback or the Flatiron blow this trail away in grade and distance. At least when you approach those you expect it. Heading into this short 0.71 mile lure to the summit you just don't expect the punch.
From the Maricopa Picnic Ramada trail #44 takes off north. A steep (0.13 mile, 24 degree grade) ascent leads you up to a set of steps on your left. This short set of steps takes you to a road. Follow this road up the majority of the hike. You may be disappointed as the road takes out the natural aspect of hiking. Although you may not rate this as your favorite hike, a change of pace is nice.
Once near the radio towers trail #44 continues a short distance up. Looking south you almost have a direct view straight down Central Avenue. Not quite though, you're actually more in line with what would be 1st or 2nd street. Having driven through 22 miles of solid city to get to North Mountain I began to wonder. What gives this mountain the honor of being the 'North' mountain? Especially knowing the city doesn't even begin to end here I checked it out. Lookout Mountain is further north and falls into the Phoenix Mountain Preserves too, so forget that theory. When the city was small and Central Avenue dominated the landscape this was north. Way back when, North Mountain was a camping area for the Phoenix Indian School.
Other views include: to the south is, you guessed it, South Mountain with the Estrellas behind and west, to the east and a bit south is a great view of Piestewa Peak, looking north northeast is Lookout Mountain, the mountain directly northwest is Shaw Butte. Shaw Butte appears to be considerably less in elevathon. In reality it's a few feet higher.
Return by the same way or... Continue down the ridgeline and enjoy the views of Phoenix. Steep sections are encountered along the way. Follow the North Mountain Loop Drive back to the Maricopa picnic ramada.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
Permit $$
None
Directions
Road
Paved - Car Okay
To North Mountain Trailhead In Phoenix, at 7th & Peoria on the west side of the road. Head on up the park loop drive. The trailhead is located at the Maricopa Picnic Ramada on the north western end of the loop. Ample parking available or you could park several other places within a small walk. Restrooms and pay phones available at the park center.
From PHX (I-10 & AZ-51) 12.1 mi, 24 mins From TUC (Jct 1-10 & Grant) 119 mi, 2 hours 5 mins From FLG (Jct I-17 & I-40) 134 mi, 2 hours 15 mins
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