PHOENIX, AZ — As Phoenix temperatures begin to climb into triple digits, the City of Phoenix is expanding its Trail Heat Safety Program to better protect hikers during the hottest parts of the day.
The latest update, announced by the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board, imposes immediate closures on select trails within South Mountain Park when the National Weather Service issues an extreme heat warning.
What trails are affected?
Under the new policy, the Holbert, Mormon, and Hau’pal Loop trails will close to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.during any NWS-issued extreme heat warning. These restrictions do not affect the National Trail, as long as it’s accessed from trailheads other than Pima Canyon.
Though approximately 7 miles of trail will be impacted by the rule, the city noted that over 100 miles of trails at South Mountain Park will remain open, ensuring hikers still have access to a wide range of recreational options.
Cynthia Aguilar, Director of the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department, said the changes are intended to strike a necessary balance between access and safety.
“South Mountain is one of the largest urban parks in the country,” Aguilar said in a release. “These changes help us minimize risk to hikers and first responders during extreme heat while keeping a majority of the park accessible.”
Are Camelback and Piestewa trails changing too?
No. The existing policies for Camelback Mountain’s Echo Canyon and Cholla trails, as well as Piestewa Peak’s Summit Trail, will remain the same. These trails are already closed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during extreme heat warnings and were not affected by the latest updates.
How did this change come about?
Originally enacted in 2021, the Trail Heat Safety Program underwent review in early 2025 by the Parks and Recreation Board. The updated rules were finalized on March 27 after public input and data analysis supported further action.
According to the city, Phoenix saw 121 days of 105-degree heat or higher last year, prompting 35 trail rescuesinvolving first responders.
Tips for hiking in Phoenix heat
To help hikers stay safe, the City of Phoenix offered the following guidance:
Start early – Plan hikes before sunrise to avoid peak heat.
Hydrate ahead of time, and bring more water than you think you’ll need.
Dress smart – Wear light-colored, lightweight clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
Don’t go it alone – Always let someone know your route if hiking solo.
Know the signs of dehydration and heatstroke.
For more information on Phoenix’s trail rules and safety programs, visit the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department website.
