Dobbins Lookout via Holbert Trail

The hike to Dobbins Lookout is an awesome adventure. It’s just hard enough to challenge more experienced hikers, but it’s still accessible for strong beginners thanks to its non-rocky path (relative to the usual in Phoenix) and lack of technicality. The view from the lookout is a treat, and it won’t take too long to reach it. You can also check out petroglyphs on this trail.

At the top of this hike, you can hang out at Dobbins Lookout, where there’s an old stone structure. Have you looked at this ramada and thought, “I would definitely live there?” Us too. This is the highest lookout available to hikers on South Mountain and the views are excellent.

The ramada is a perfect shady lookout on a hot day. The great thing about South Mountain Park is that each trail offers its own special view despite originating from the same area, and this hike offers a wide-open sightline of the city and the surrounding mountains.

This hike does get busy, which is the potential downside. Expect a busy trail! If you can manage to hike in the middle of the week, that’ll help. We’ve done this hike in the evening, and with a headlight to help, the city view sparkling in the dark is amazing. No matter when you come, remember to bring lots of water, consider sun protection, and don’t hike in the heat of the day. This trail is too steep and unshaded for 100 degrees!

Begin from the main entrance to the South Mountain Park. Make a left past the visitor center and continue to the end of the road, where Holbert Trail starts.

The route is mostly gravel and sand. Follow the obvious trail as it starts flat, crossing a wash and meandering towards a canyon. The grade increases as you climb up through the canyon and then traverse into the canyon next to it.

The best is yet to come! Take on a heart-pumping ascent through the canyon that leads to the lookout. A set of switchbacks gets you there, where you can rest up and check out the lookout.
You’ll see a road here and maybe curse the fact that you hiked up here when you could’ve driven. Remind yourself why you love hiking and then begin the return trip.

Hiking Route Highlights

Phoenix

The highlight of your view from Dobbins Lookout 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

Who is Dobbins Lookout named after?

The lookout is named after James C. Dobbins, the chairman of the Phoenix Planning Commission who led efforts to purchase this land.

Do you have to pay to hike to Dobbins Lookout?

No, there is no fee required for this trail.

Can you drive up to Dobbins Lookout?

Yes, there is vehicle access to the lookout via Summit Road. The road is usually open from 5 AM until 7 PM.