South Mountain Park351

South Mountain Park is a wonderful recreation area for Valley families and visitors. At over 16,000 acres, it's considered the largest municipal park in the country and ranks second only to the Grand Canyon for the number of annual visitors.

A part of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, the park offers more than 58 miles of multi-use trails for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians. Ranging from one mile to over 14 miles in length, the trails are moderate to strenuous in difficulty.

The best trails for families with children are the Javelina Canyon Trail (1.7 miles) or the Telegraph Pass Trail (1.5 miles, with steep areas at the top); both are rated easy to moderate. All trails offer spectacular views of the surrounding desert and the city.

Ponderosa and South Mountain Stables offer trail rides for riders of all skill levels. Families can experience breakfast, cookout, and hay rides; riding lessons are also available. Kids must be at least two years old to ride (ages two to five ride with a parent or guardian). Call 602.268.1261 for pricing and reservations.

For a more relaxing afternoon, pile the kids in the car and drive to Dobbins Lookout. At 2,330 feet, it's the highest accessible peak in the park. Take it slow on this winding mountain road - you're sharing it with bikers, tourists, and other vehicles. Be sure to pick up a map at the main gate.

Picnic ramadas accommodating a single family to 5,000 people are available for picnics, barbecues, and parties. The smallest ramadas are on a first come first served basis; reservations are suggested or required for the larger areas. Restrooms are easily accessible.