Acer Summit via Mormon Trail

Mormon Trail is one of the main routes in South Mountain Park. This busy trail can be used to reach Acer Summit as described in this guide, or it can be used to create loop hikes with the several intersecting routes along the way. The trail isn’t technical, but it offers unique rocky desert terrain flanked by saguaros. You can also check out petroglyphs on this trail.

The top of this route is Acer Summit, named for a Latin word meaning “sharp” and “strong.” The view of Phoenix from this point is expansive, and while we like it any time of day, this is a particularly fun trek to do in the evening to watch the lights of the city begin to sparkle.

Mormon Trail is one of the busiest routes in this area of South Mountain Park, which has its upsides and downsides. You’ll be able to DIY your route with the various connecting trails if you’re interested in a loop hike, and the route is easy to follow and well-maintained.

On the flip side, this trail gets super busy. The trailhead parking can fill up by 9 AM on peak days and you’ll need to share the trail as hikers pass in the opposite direction. Get here early or try to visit in the middle of the week if possible. Mountain biking is technically allowed on this trail, but we don’t recommend it because of the level of foot traffic normally present.

As with all hikes in the Phoenix area, you’ll want to avoid this one in the hotter months and prepare for heat even in the middle of winter. Bring lots of water, wear sun protection, and time your hike so you’re not on the trail in the middle of the day. Should you choose to bring your dogs with you, make sure they have water, too.

Begin from the Mormon Trailhead off E Valley View Drive. Take a minute to review the signage at the trailhead that describes the route, the conditions, and the area. You’ll take the obvious route as it begins its approach towards the mountain.

Expect a mix of gravelly, sandy, and rocky footing. Some sections of the trail are smooth rock, which can be slippery in some cases. The trail is easy to follow as it begins to unevenly switchback up the mountain.

You won’t encounter any junctions on your way to Acer Summit, so there are no navigational considerations. The trail is consistently graded and somewhat steep, so expect a steady workout as you make your way up the smooth rocks.

Where you find Mormon Loop Trail heading off to your left, look for the trail just before it that leads left to Acer Summit. Take some time here to enjoy the view of the city, the mountains on the horizon, the saguaros on the mountain below, and the wide sky.

When you’re ready, you’ll return to the trailhead by retracing your steps.

Hiking Route Highlights

Phoenix

The highlight of your view from Acer Summit is the entire city of Phoenix. Phoenix is the largest city in Arizona and has been the capital of the state since 1889 (Tucson and Prescott were previously the capitals). The city has become a sprawling metropolis of over 1.6 million people known for its golfing, resorts, and entertainment. With access to nearby mountain ranges and a hot, snowless climate, Phoenix is a great base for hikers wanting to explore the desert mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mormon Trail okay for kids?

This is a kid-friendly trail, although some children may struggle with the grade of the route.

Do you have to pay to hike to Acer Summit?

No, there is no fee required for this trail.

How much parking is there at the Mormon Trailhead?

There isn’t quite enough trailhead parking for this route considering the traffic the trail gets. You’ll want to aim to arrive before 9 AM on weekends to get a spot.