Join Barbara for a 4.5-mile out and back moderate hike in South Mountain on the Holbert to Dobbins Lookout Trail. There is only 997 feet elevation gain.
Location: South Mountain Preserve
South Mountain Preserve is off West Baseline Road on Central Avenue. Drive to the main entrance to South Mountain Preserve and make a left past the visitor’s center. Go to the end of the road to the parking lot. The trail head will be towards the end of the parking lot on the left side as you face towards the exit. We’ll meet at 8:45am at the trailhead to start hiking around 9 am. There are bathroom facilities available. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. There are also improved bathroom facilities at Dobbins Lookout.
Hike Description: After some desert walking, the trail becomes moderately challenging with switchbacks through rock formations to the saddle. This is a popular trail so we may encounter other hikers. At the top, right turn to the stone structure that is Dobbins Lookout. Great views of Phoenix and the surrounding desert and mountains. There are petroglyphs at the beginning of the trail.
Don’t forget to bring water, wear sunscreen and a hat. Due to the rocky trail, wearing hiking boots preferable. Bring trekking poles if you use them.
After the hike, which should take 2 -2.5 hours, consider gathering at Starbucks at 2340 E Baseline Road for coffee and conversation.
Please beware that there are no trip leaders for the second Saturday April or May Hikes. If you would like to lead a hike, please send an email to outdoorgroup@phoenixuu.org with a description of the hike to be added to the calendar.
For more information, contact outdoorgroup@phoenixuu.org .