Lookout Mountain Summit Trail
Lookout Mountain is an isolated peak in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, located north of the city. The mountain offers an excellent view of the other peaks of the preserve, which are just south of it, and the city and its suburbs sprawling in all directions. The hike to the top of Lookout Mountain is a short one, but it’s no-nonsense, requiring a bit of light scrambling over rocky sections. It’s a good pick for beginners who want to try out a more adventurous trail that’s still forgiving.
This hike is dog-friendly, but it might be tough for pups to get all the way to the top on those rocky sections. Make sure you bring lots of water with you and plan your hike outside the heat of the day. Might we suggest sunrise or sunset?
Quick Navigation
Join our newsletter
Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers
Route Description for Lookout Mountain Summit Trail
Lookout Mountain is one of the summits included in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, which provides locals and visitors alike with excellent hiking opportunities right within the city limits. That’s the beauty of this mountain (and others in the preserve), you can get outside, be active, enjoy nature, and not have to go far to do it.
The hike up Lookout Mountain on this trail is quite short, but don’t mistake it for a complete beginner-friendly adventure. This route is rocky and requires a bit of hands-on climbing in some parts. Young kids might have a tough time. Although this hike allows dogs on-leash, some may also struggle to reach the top, so think twice about bringing them along unless you’ve tried out the hike and feel confident they can make it.
From the top of the mountain, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city and its suburbs in every direction. Look south and southeast and you’ll see the rest of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, including North Mountain and Piestewa Peak. Next to you to the southeast is little Shadow Mountain.
Although this hike is short, prepare as you would for any other mountain hike in this area: bring water, wear sturdy boots, consider sun protection, and plan your adventure outside of the heat of the day. This makes for a fabulous sunset or sunrise hike. The parking lot for the hike can actually fill up before the sun is even out, evidence of the number of hikers who come here for sunrise views.
The parking lot for Lookout Mountain Summit Trail is on 16th Street. Again, you’ll need to arrive early to get a spot here, but there’s also street parking available nearby as long as you abide by the signage.
There is water at the trailhead if you need to fill your bottle. There are no restrooms here, so plan to stop before arriving if you need.
From the trailhead, the route starts out nice and easy, even if it doesn’t stay that way for very long. You’ll want to follow the signage for Trail #150. You’ll start on Trail #308, the Lookout Mountain Circumference Trail, then you’ll bear left to begin ascending the mountain. The Circumference Trail is a great adventure after your hike or for another day.
The route becomes steeper as you switchback up the mountain. 0.6 km in, you’ll hit a saddle. From here, look for Shaw Butte and North Mountain. The technical part of the climb comes up next. Take a left and hug the ridgeline hiking east.
The route gets harder to make out here, but it’ll be obvious which direction you’re heading in–to the top! Navigate the rocky terrain, taking your time on the steepest sections. Once you make it to the top, soak up those panoramic views.
From here, the route down follows the same trail, so retrace your steps to the trailhead.
Hiking Route Highlights
Phoenix Mountain Preserve
The Lookout Mountain Summit Trail is part of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, an urban park system that includes the impressive Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, Shaw Butte, Dreamy Draw Mountain, and more. The preserve also encompasses Papago Park and the Sonoran Desert Preserve, so it serves to maintain the unique desert mountains and landscapes of Phoenix for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lookout Mountain a dangerous hike?
No, this is not a particularly dangerous hike. There is some exposure on the ridge to the summit, but it’s relatively mild.
Can kids hike Lookout Mountain?
Younger kids may prefer to turn around at the saddle on this hike to skip the most difficult part. Older kids may be able to complete the entire hike.
Can you drive up Lookout Mountain?
No, there is no vehicle access beyond the trailhead parking lot.
Insider Hints for Lookout Mountain Summit Trail
- Lookout Mountain Park is near this mountain. It’s a fine place to spend some time outside after your hike.
Getting to the Lookout Mountain Summit Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Lookout Mountain Summit Trail is on N 16th Street.
Route Information
Lookout Mountain Summit Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherLookout Mountain Summit Trail Reviews
Add a comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Nearby Trails
- Trail 306 via Trail 100
- Shadow Mountain Trail
- Shaw Butte via Shaw Butte Trailhead
- Shaw Butte and Charles M. Christiansen Loop
- Trail 308 Loop
- Lookout Mountain via Trail 308
- Phoenix Mountain Preserve Loop
- Trail 101 to North Mountain National Trail
- Shaw Butte Loop
- Shaw Butte Trail
- North Mountain National Trail
- Shadow Mountain Trail