South Mountain
National Trail is the ultimate test piece for Phoenix mountain bikers.
About This Trail
South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the largest municipally managed parks in the country at over 16,000 acres, with more than 100 miles of trails spanning three mountain ranges. For mountain bikers, this is hallowed ground — National Trail is the premier technical challenge in the Phoenix area and a bucket-list ride for advanced riders. The full National Trail runs about 14.5 miles along the ridgeline, but the eastern 3-mile section from Pima Canyon is what most mountain bikers ride, featuring rock gardens, steep drops, technical features like the infamous Waterfall, and exposure that demands full concentration. If National sounds intimidating, the Desert Classic Trail on the south side offers a much mellower 8.6-mile ride through the lower foothills. The park also features Silent Sundays on the fourth Sunday of each month, when the summit road is closed to cars from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. — perfect for road riding the scenic climb to Dobbins Lookout at 2,330 feet. It’s a longer drive from Anthem, but South Mountain is the crown jewel of Phoenix mountain biking and should be on every serious rider’s list.
Highlights
- National Trail is the Valley’s premier technical mountain bike challenge — steep drops, rock gardens, and the infamous Waterfall feature.
- Over 16,000 acres and 100+ miles of trails across three mountain ranges — the largest municipal park in the country.
- Silent Sundays close the summit road to cars, giving cyclists exclusive access to the scenic 5.5-mile climb to Dobbins Lookout.
- Desert Classic Trail offers 8.6 miles of beginner-friendly riding on the south side for riders not ready for National.
Riding Tips
For National Trail, start at the Pima Canyon lot and climb up — the eastern 3-mile section is the rideable part. Skip the western sections unless you enjoy hike-a-bike.
Bring a full-suspension bike with 140–150mm travel for National Trail — a hardtail will punish you on the rock gardens.
Hit National on a weekday morning to avoid heavy hiker traffic, especially near Mormon Trail junction.
If you’re not ready for National, ride Desert Classic on the south side — it’s a great intermediate ride with good flow and manageable terrain.
Heading to South Mountain?
Stop by Sunset Cyclery first for a pre-ride tune-up, fresh tires, or trail recommendations from people who actually ride here.