National to Hidden Valley to Mormon Loop

Using the Mormon Trail, Hidden Valley Trail, and National Trail, this hike gets you up into the hills of Phoenix’s South Mountain Preserve for impressive sightlines over the city below and to the mountains around you. The route undulates, keeping things fresh with broken-up sections of climbing and descending.

As with all hikes in the Phoenix area, bring lots of water with you and avoid hiking in the heat of the day. Consider wearing sun protection. Watch for mountain bikers as this is a multi-use trail.

From the trailhead, take National Trail heading west along the wash. You’ll climb gradually next to the base of a ridge. Pass the old stone houses and arrive at the fork. Go right onto Mormon Loop Trail, staying left where Javelina splits off. You’ll climb out of the other side of the canyon and towards Two Peaks.

At Fat Man’s Pass, follow the route as it turns east and continue onto Hidden Valley Trail. Stay right at the fork to get onto National Trail and begin your gradual descent back down alongside the canyon and the ridge. This route will take you back to the trailhead.