Shaw Butte Loop
The Shaw Butte Loop is a heavily trafficked loop trail in Phoenix Mountain Preserve. This hike is 7.2 km long and rated as moderate. It first takes you up to the top of Shaw Butte, where there’s a great view of North Mountain, and then down the butte to hike between it and North Mountain on the return trip. It’s a slightly longer version of the traditional Shaw Butte Trail that’s still easy enough for beginners and active families.
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Route Description for Shaw Butte Loop
Shaw Butte Loop is a route in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve that begins near the North Mountain Visitor Center and leads you up Shaw Butte for an excellent view of nearby North Mountain. As it deviates from the traditional Shaw Butte route, it leads you down and back to the trailhead between the butte and the peak. This hike is moderately difficult and it’s generally suitable for strong beginners and active families. This route is the best way to enjoy the view of North Mountain, and active hikers can even add on an ascent of North Mountain on their way back to the trailhead.
This hike is dog-friendly as long as furry friends are kept on leash. Remember to bring lots of water with you and consider wearing sun protection. Avoid hiking during the heat of the day if temperatures are forecast to be high.
From the trailhead next to the visitor center, follow the signage for Shaw Butte Loop. You’ll hike along a flat stretch of trail towards the butte, bearing left at the fork onto the trail that leads uphill. You’ll crest the ridge that leads to the top of the butte and follow it up to the summit. Look out at North Mountain to the southeast. Continue off the butte on the south side and then bear left to follow Shaw Butte Trail back to the trailhead.
Getting to the Shaw Butte Loop Trailhead
The trailhead for this hike is near the North Mountain Visitor Center on Visitor Center Access Road.
Route Information
Shaw Butte Loop Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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Nearby Trails
- Trail 306 via Trail 100
- Maxine Lakin Nature 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
- North Mountain Trail
- Trail 101 to North Mountain National Trail
- Shaw Butte Trail
- Lookout Mountain Summit Trail
- North Mountain National Trail