Near North Top Summit
Looking northeast.
Near North Top Summit
View to the west from the peak. Four Peaks is waaaay back there!
Near North Top Summit
Near North Top Summit
Looking west during sunset.
Near North Top Summit
Looking from peak. Downtown Phoenix with South Mountain behind.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

North Top Summit

3.8 (10 Ratings)
A steep, paved climb to the top of a popular Phoenix summit with 360-degree views of the Valley of the Sun!
1.4
mi
Distance
568
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Family FriendlyViews
Access Issues
Always bring water. Even when the weather is not hot, Phoenix is dry.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.4mi
Distance
568ft
Elevation Gain
568ft
Elevation Loss
55%
Max Grade
2,040ft
High Point
1,468ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
This route features a very steep climb, though there are many chances to take a breath with breathtaking views! Begin from North Mountain park off of 7th Street (this parking closes at 7 pm. If hiking for sunset you may have to park farther away and walk to the trailhead). The path starts out as dirt with stone steps, but joins an old paved road that continues the rest of the way to the top. Once at the summit, you'll want to bear left just below the radio towers and follow the unpaved trail along the ridge to the peak for the final vista of the valley below! Return the way you came or continue on down the other side to complete the North Mountain Loop back to your car.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Jennifer Honn