West Trailhead

Trail Hours: 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Difficulty: Medium

Access: Start from the Deem Hills Park to proceed to Deem Hills Circumference Trail.

Description: The Deem Hills Circumference trail traverses the entire recreation area and commands excellent views of the Phoenix area, the Hedgepeth Hills to the south, and the Hieroglyphic and Bradshaw Mountains to the north. Taking the Circumference trail will take you around the entire Deem Hills system, but not in the normal way. For instance, on the north side, the Circumference trail cuts into the mountain instead of going around it, taking you into a small valley. For 5.7 miles, you will go through flat sections to steep and rocky sections. You will have fantastic views of the CAP canal to the north and the surrounding mountains. To the south and west, you will see Phoenix surrounding the lower flanks of the hills. And to the east, you will see the McDowell Mountain range.

Distance: 5.7 miles

Elevation Change: 306 feet

Trail Hours: 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Difficulty: Difficult

Access: Start from the Deem Hills Park to connect to Deem Hills Circumference Trail. From Deem Hills Circumference Trail, proceed to Deem Hills Ridgeline Trail.

Description: As it's name suggests, the Ridgeline Trail will take you to the highest parts of Deem Hills in between the .50 and .79 trail posts at 2,050 ft. From the trail you will have incredible views all around. The Ridgeline trail is the most challenging trail in the park with an elevation gain of 353 ft and several steep switchbacks. It has excellent views all around including a great view of Ludden Mountain to the west. The highest point is 2,050 ft. This is where to go for some great panoramic pictures and a workout. You can connect with the Circumference Trail at both the beginning and the end of Ridgeline.

Distance: 1.5 miles

Elevation Change: 353 feet