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Holbert Trailhead

4.6 (12 reviews)

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View from the lookout
Tien D.

This trail is okay. Compared to other hikes I've done in Phoenix, this one was the least rewarding in terms of scenic landscape. The trail is pretty easy and you can see the city from the lookout. On the day I went there were lots of people blaring their music on this trail and Dobbins Lookout was occupied by a group that drove up there to exercise inside the structure. Underwhelming compared to Tom's Thumb or Peralta trail, but great if you are looking for some exercise close to the city

Climbing up the trail
Grace A.

This trail was so fun! My family and I stumbled along this trail when looking for hiking during our trip to Phoenix. It was a great moderate climb as the first half of the trip was completely up hill and then you come back down on the second half. Even though it was uphill for the first half I did not feel that it was too hard. We saw many young families doing and completing this trail. The only thing that I would be cautious with if your wanting to do this with younger kids, is the trail does have a lot of rocks so you have to really watch your footing. The trial also is on the edge of a steep hill for most of the climb. There is a lookout point about half way up the trial as well. At the top you get to Dobbins Lookout. It was very cool to see above the city. I absolutely loved this trail (about 4.5 miles overall or 2.25 each way)

Panoramic view from the top!
Hailey P.

I have to start out by saying, I LOVED THIS HIKE! Do. It. Now. Here are the facts: 1100 feet elevation change, difficult rating, 2.5 miles one way, 5 miles round trip. To put it in perspective, it is actually less of a climb than Camelback Mountain but a longer distance; which I LOVE! The scenery at the top is gorgeous and there is a cool rock house to relax in the shade, enjoy a snack, and take a quick break before heading back down. There were people of all ages doing this hike and even our 10 year old sheepie made the trek! It was a gorgeous day when we hiked and I felt like I had the best workout when we were finished. I have never done any of the South Mountain hikes but I can definitely say that we'll be back! :) There is also a TON of parking and bathrooms at the bottom, which is so great!

Tall cacti!
Jackie T.

Best. Trail. Ever!! It's hard finding a nature trail that both offers a challenging and great views, but Holbert Trailhead did not disappoint! Firstly, bring lots of water! It gets pretty hot on the trail, so be sure to hydrate. Secondly, bring sunscreen, because like I said: HOT! I put on 70 spf sunscreen and still got a mild sunburn ): this trail is pet friendly, but please keep them on a leash. While hiking with our fur babies we encountered not one, not two, but a whole family of coyotes. Majestic as they are, we were pretty scared to see them crossing right in front of us! The climb up is about 1000ft in elevation, but this would be an easy hike compared to Tom's Thumb since the climb is gradual rather than a continuous steep upward climb. If you don't feel like hiking, there's a drive up to Dobbin's peak where the view is spectacular! We also saw lots of cacti along the way and met some amazing people. Follow the trail markers, because it is easy to get lost! At one point we didn't see any trail markers and ended up going the wrong way, but as long as you end up at the top, it's worth it!

The shorter route if you just want to get in a quick hike without a lot of incline.

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18 days ago

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Review Highlights - Holbert Trailhead

FYI: at Dobbins Lookout there are toilets (technically) but they are not plumbed and as such, the stench will keep you away.

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Echo Canyon Trail

Echo Canyon Trail

(36 reviews)

Hiked the death trap that is echo canyon trail and it did not disappoint…read more Made for mountain goats aka I recommend it if you're okay with basically rock climbing the whole way up, it's pretty vertical. It's a fun hike and definitely a good workout. It's also very well marked for people who frequently get lost on trails like me. I wasn't super impressed with the view at the top since it's just overlooking the city but it's probably one of the highest vantage points compared to other hikes. Tips: There is one part where the stairs and rails are where it gets very windy so sunglasses can help. You don't necessarily need gloves to do the hike, just be careful with how you pivot with your hands, I got through it without any callouses, scabs or scratches. Like others said, try to wear shoes with some type of traction, I got through it with sneakers. Very small parking lot so come at sunrise or if you come around 7am, sometimes the early risers leave around that time. There's bathrooms and a water fountain at the beginning. Have fun and be safe!

The views on this trail the higher you go are priceless. However, one time is enough for me lol. It…read moretook an hour and a half up and another hour and a half down. This was my first time doing a hike like this and it's definitely not a "beginners" hike but I had no expectations & didn't know what I was getting myself into. On the way down, I fell and busted my knee. My only recommendation is to take your time & take breaks while going up/down the mountain. & listen to your body if you get tired!

Reach 11 Recreation Area - Rattlesnake

Reach 11 Recreation Area

(19 reviews)

This is way the heck out there, and maybe it depends from which direction you arrive. We arrived…read morefrom south Phoenix and the apocalyptic industrial zone that precedes was not fun. There is also a library right next door - cool, but what an odd location - seems they plan to expand the housing nearby. Okay but about the hiking and the trails and site itself - great. The entire time we were visiting the area we were so impressed by the upkeep of the trails and the abundance of facilities and helpful information. This is an extensive recreation area with a lot of trails to choose, including convenient loops, so you can decide how much you are up for. We ventured up to the waterfall, which of course was not active due to the dry weather; however, there was a small pool there which was stunning. The trails are well kept and there is a mix of cement and dirt trails. Must note, though, that it's a bit quiet and remote, so can be a magnet for crime - we were warned upon entering one parking lot that someone had just been there breaking car windows. We moved on to a different lot and didn't have any issues. So just make sure there are other cars and people around, to be on the safe side. PS there is also a small nature center next to the library; both are prior to the main entrance of the Recreation Area. The nature center has some information, specimens/artefacts and a small gift shop. PPS the staff at the Recreation Area entrance were very friendly and helpful.

Good place for a quick walk. There are several trails here but I like the main one that is…read moreasphalted and takes you by a pond. Takes about an hour to walk. Very flat, easy hike. It is not the most scenic place in town to hike but it is a solid spot.

Holbert Trailhead - hiking - Updated May 2026

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