Alta Trail

The Alta Trail in South Mountain Preserve is a beautiful adventure that follows a ridge with excellent views of the unique landscape of the preserve below. This trail is one of the lesser-known ones in the preserve, so you can sometimes score some solitude if you’re lucky. If the full distance is too long for you, you can hike part of the trail and still have a great experience.

This is a longer hike with considerable elevation gain at the start, so prepare accordingly by packing more water than you think you’ll need, wearing sun protection, and wearing good boots. Poles could be helpful for the main climb up to the ridge.

From the trailhead, the route curves to your left and begins its ascent up to the ridge. This is the most tiring part of the trail, so it’s nice that you get it over with first. Atop the ridge, head to your left and gently descend as you admire the views. The route ends at a T-junction at the bottom of the ridge. From here, retrace your steps to the trailhead.