Alta Trail
State: Arizona
Location: Phoenix
Length, One-Way: 4.5 miles
Best Season: Spring, Fall, Winter
Difficulty: Moderate
Usage: Moderate
Coconino Forest Treeline
Trail Information
The Alta Trail in South Mountain Park provides excellent views of the valley below during your climb to the top of these desert peaks. The east side of the Alta Trail is well maintained. There are rocks lining the trail on both sides, lots of switchbacks going up to the ridge, metal signposts (with no signs) and a park bench made of rocks overlooking the Bajada Trail across the valley. The west side of the Alta Trail needs maintenance. Several of its switchbacks have become badly eroded leaving you with a steep, gravely descent. Phoenix is extremely hot in the summer months. Winter, early spring or late fall are the only times to truly enjoy the desert around Phoenix.
Directions
South Mountain Park is located south of the downtown Phoenix.From Phoenix:
Take Central Avenue south to the park entrance. Drive about 2 miles past the park entrance turn right following the signs towards San Juan Valley. Turn left into a gravel parking area at the 2.5 mile marker
