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North Mountain Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,761 Google reviews · Running trail in Phoenix, Arizona · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from North Mountain Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Hiking trails of varying difficulty lead to 2 summits for scenic views, plus a visitor center.
What runners say about North Mountain Park
“Plus, the panoramic views of Phoenix and the stunning backdrop of Camelback Mountain only add to its allure.”
“It was not an easy hike for me personally it was still an accomplishment.”
Favorite go to mountain to train. It is paved most of the way up. Great quick hike and a good workout. Minus one star because it can get crowded.
We were suppose to explore Trailhead 100 yet somehow we ended up at 44. That side trek almost killed me for a second time lol..I personally did this hike with someone else a year ago made it to where the pavement began. This time round I almost made it to the antennas they say 3rd time is a charm lol.
Penny Howe Trail is a nice stroll through the mountain on a freshly paved path. It's listed as .5 mile but it feels even faster. This is a great option for strollers or wheel chairs. The playground is a short drive away (or could walk it). It's pretty basic and a bit rusted, but just fine.
This is a great park with a 45 minute mountain hike, with a paved side and rocky trail side. Both paths lead up to towers with fantastic views. The hike may be short but is steep, and perfect for quick workout and mediation after work, or weekends.
Trail conditions & character
“☺️ At 2,104 feet above sea level, the hike is challenging but absolutely worthwhile, and the views are so incredible!”
“The hills block a lot of traffic noise, and sometimes I take off my earphones just to listen to the silence ❤️❤️❤️.”
“There are 2 different parking lots, the second lot closer to the path has some benches with covers and 2 portable bathrooms.”
“This is a great park with a 45 minute mountain hike, with a paved side and rocky trail side.”
“There are 2 different parking lots, the second lot closer to the path has some benches with covers and 2 portable bathrooms.”
“Its moderate difficulty level and convenient location near my residence make it an ideal choice for a quick outdoor getaway.”
“This is a great park with a 45 minute mountain hike, with a paved side and rocky trail side.”
“theres a nice loop around the mountains where you can just walk and enjoy the views of downtown buildings.”
“This is a great option for strollers or wheel chairs.”
Plan your run at North Mountain Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitephoenix.gov
- Phone+1 602-262-7901
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 am–7 pm |
| Tuesday | 5 am–7 pm |
| Wednesday | 5 am–7 pm |
| Thursday | 5 am–7 pm |
| Friday | 5 am–7 pm |
| Saturday | 5 am–7 pm |
| Sunday | 5 am–7 pm |
Running trails near Phoenix
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
North Mountain - Trail 44
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Shadow Mountain
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Phoenix Mountains Preserve
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