Deem Hills Recreation Area
4.6(803)google
4.5(54)yelp
HikingMountainOutdoor
Overview
Deem Hills Recreation Area is a rugged natural desert park situated in north Phoenix, renowned for its unique basalt rock formations resulting from ancient volcanic activity. The park boasts an extensive trail network winding through dramatic ridgelines, steep switchbacks, and rolling desert valleys. Hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers frequent the prominent Circumference and Ridge Trails to enjoy strenuous outdoor workouts and capture panoramic views of the northern Valley landscapes. Dominated by native vegetation such as brittlebush, palo verde trees, and pristine saguaro cacti, the recreation area offers a quieter, uncrowded wilderness experience for those seeking rugged isolation.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 2-3 hours
Best TimeThe prime visiting time is from 6:00 AM to 8:30 AM during early spring (February to April). The area's unique black volcanic basalt rock formations contrast beautifully with spring wildflowers like brittlebush and lupine after a winter rain, and the early breeze guarantees a safe, scenic hike.
Getting ThereTucked away at the northern edge of Phoenix. Driving is the only choice: take I-17 North, exit at Happy Valley Rd, head west, and turn north onto 51st Ave to reach the main Deem Hills Park entrance, which offers a large free parking lot with full restroom and shade facilities.
Travel Tips
- Loose Basalt Scree & Traction: Trails like the Circumference Trail feature loose volcanic basalt rock and jagged scree with poor traction. Standard running shoes easily slip, increasing ankle sprain risks; deep-lug hiking boots and trekking poles are strongly recommended.
- Dual Trailhead Choice: The preserve has two access points. The north 51st Avenue entrance features shaded ramadas, modern restrooms, dog parks, and water stations, whereas the east Deem Hills Parkway entrance has very limited parking and zero amenities. Navigate north for prep.
- Wildlife Warning & Gate Curfew: As a rugged desert habitat, rattlesnakes, scorpions, and Africanized honeybees are highly active during summer/fall dusk; stay strictly on trails. The parking lot gates are locked promptly at 10:00 PM, trapping any remaining vehicles inside.
Reviews
Positive
- A wonderful, uncrowded local hiking sanctuary; the unique basalt rock formations and spring wildflowers offer wide-open, pleasant scenery.
- Trails are well-maintained with moderate difficulty and smart loop layouts; the base features an excellent community park, playground, and dog parks.
- Completely free with a large, ample parking lot; compared to overcrowded hotspots, this area offers pure, uninterrupted desert serenity.
- The ridge trails are perfect for catch-up viewings of early morning sunrises, offering great panoramic vistas and untouched natural ecology.
Heads up
- There is zero tree shade along the loop paths, leaving hikers exposed; trail markers at technical junctions are worn down and easy to miss.
- The paths feature loose scree and rocky gravel, making descents slippery; wearing sturdy hiking boots and bringing trekking poles is highly advised.
- On-trail public facilities are non-existent; other than the community park at the base, there are no restrooms or emergency stations during the hike.
- Due to surrounding housing developments, specific high vantage points look over endless roofs and power lines, slightly breaking the wilderness vibe.