Phoenix is home to tens of thousands of acres of untouched desert lined with majestic saguaro and cholla cactuses, home to coyotes, great horned owls and gila monsters -- all just minutes from downtown Phoenix. It's no surprise Phoenix is one of National Geographic's best hiking cities and has been recognized by by AARP and TravelNerd as one of the Top Urban Destinations for Nature Lovers.
If you'd like to submit comments regarding parking and resource management at desert preserves, you can submit them by phone at 602-261-8318 or by e-mail at pks.phoenix.mountain.preserves.parking@phoenix.gov. You also can view a Parks and Recreation Board informational report on these issues.
NOTE:
2014 fire ban lifts October 15th
*Hiking during hot-weather months. Please use extra caution if you’re planning on using trails during hot weather months, try to wait for shade when hiking as full sun temperatures can be more than 20 degrees higher than the official shade temperature. So hike in early morning or near dusk when there’s more shade and less intense heat. Remember, even if you are hydrated you can still suffer from heat-related illness on the hottest days. During excessive heat warnings, consider whether it's safe to hike at all. Follow our full safety guidelines for staying safe on the trail.
