South Mountain Park and Preserve — Attraction in Phoenix

It was closed on the 4th Sunday... also, there was a rescue taking place... DON.T WAIT, HYDRATE!!!

Update... 😒I couldn.t give the park 5-stars only because I never made it to the top during two attempts... be sure to check the park hours (they close at 7pm.. so be there by 6p to enjoy the sunset!) ..and if you make it into the park, before you leave, make the right turn after the 2nd guard shack, you will travel to the big ramada which has an overlook to view the city... it a very nice, wish I could have fully enjoyed it... maybe I will try again.🤷‍♂️

2nd Update..!!!! DON.T MISS OUT! I finally made it on my third attempt before leaving AZ. Short on time but determined, I tried again... 😒😯😍 it was a winding drive up to the top with a a couple lookout points (one with a view both north and south sides of the mountian). I arrived at the top near the radio tower and the landscape of all the cities melt in to one gorgeous breathtaking spectacle view. Far as the eye can see with mountain peaks in.the distance...❤❤❤ when worth effort. Peaceful and soothing. The noise of the city melts away - timeless. The stone building is waiting to be explored and there it.s truly gorgeous as you peek down the hillside into a valley. Every once in awhile you.ll see planes taking off from Sky Harbor...I arrived around six and the began to set.. The sun shows many colors during golden hour TRULY BREATH TAKING!! It was one of the best sunset i.ve seen in my life!!! The city lights begin to appear as the transition from day to night magically takes place... beyond words. More people began to gather and everyone was quiet (yes, a special moment to witness). The cars below that didn.t arrive before the gates closed truly missed out.(i.ve been but please don.t give up...it.s truly worth it!!!) Memories for a lifetime... i.ve shared my experience with some locals that haven.t venture up there... I encourage them and anyone to see it... you.ll be amazed! Arrive by 5:45p - 6p be sure to get a spot. Tou will not regret it... I only leave my previous reviews because I know the frustration but that all melted away. NO REGRETS! IT.S TRULY BREATHTAKING and I got some of the best Arizona sunset pictures I could imagine. **Also, the park gates may close at 6:30p- 7p nit if you are in the park...you can peaceful enjoy the enjoying as long as you like... I found myself there until 9p!!! Time easily slipped away... and there is a second overlook down the hill called the Big Ramada... it.s truly a magical place and a god given beauty to behold. Please go and enjoy.. if this review encouraged you to do so and you made it to the top, please give this review a like.🤗it would mean a lot to me. (Thank you...

Visiting the mountain viewpoint was an absolutely breathtaking experience. The scenery from the top was simply stunning, with panoramic views of lush green valleys, majestic peaks, and a clear blue sky stretching as far as the eye could see. The peaceful atmosphere and serene beauty of nature truly made this spot a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

What made the experience even more magical was the presence of the beautiful horses. These majestic creatures added an extra touch of charm to the already picturesque setting. Watching them graze peacefully against the backdrop of the mountains was a sight to behold, making the visit even more memorable.

Overall, the mountain viewpoint was not just a place to admire nature's beauty but also an opportunity to connect with these magnificent animals. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking some tranquility, this spot offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe. I highly recommend visiting this gem of a location, where the stunning views and the presence of horses create a truly...

We stopped at this nature preserve to take a picture of a saguaro cactus as we had read it was a great place to get photos of the saguaro. We tried to park up the hill closer to the paved path for guests but were turned away due to staff resurfacing the parking lot. We pulled onto the shoulder of the road as close to the path as possible and within less than ten minutes the park ranger wrote us a $100 ticket! No signs were posted anywhere saying “no parking” but we were expected to know this somehow! Beware of the unchecked authority these officers that run this park brandish on the unsuspecting visitors to the park. We were told we “should have known you can’t park on the shoulder of the road by the officer who answered the door. Most expensive thing we did while here on vacation. The Grand Canyon doesn’t even give out $100 tickets for parking on the shoulder of the road. Don’t stop here or you will be sorry I’m one of at or another. We should have read the horrible reviews other have posted. Turn around and save...