Lookout Mountain Circumference Trail #308

Dogs Leashed

Features Views

This is a popular loop trail in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve in North Phoenix. There are multiple access points including North 16th Street access on the north, the end of Coral Gables Drive on the west, and Lookout Mountain Park on the southeast.

The north parking area at 16th Street is a good place to start, as that is also the trailhead for Trail 150. There is a water fountain there. Be sure to carry plenty of water on this trip. The lot often fills by sunrise; there is nearby street parking but pay attention to the signs. The clockwise loop is described here.

As you leave the parking lot, turn left, following the Trail 308 signs and passing just below the water tank. The trail is fairly gentle here, as it passes around the northeast shoulder of Lookout Mountain. The main peak is never far out of view. As the trail heads south along the east side of the preserve, you can see the backs of many fancy homes.

At about 0.7 miles in, at the southeast corner, there is a side trail heading out to Lookout Mountain Park. From here, the trail climbs steadily to a pass at 1.2 miles, where numerous trails join together. Also, from this junction, if you are getting tired, you can take a shortcut back to your car at the parking lot.

The official Trail 308, mapped here, descends quite far down the hill. It is common for people to take an obvious track that runs higher on the hill, and maintains better views. The lower track gives you good views of mansions on the west side of the preserve, as well as some majestic cacti.

At 1.9 miles, the trail picks up the path coming up from Coral Gables Street. This could be a good place to leave and call for a ride if you are getting tired or thirsty. If you continue, climb up to one more pass, and then down to return to your car at about 2.3 miles.

Beware of various spiny cactus, rattlesnakes, scorpions, and bees in the park.