PHOENIX — With temperatures in Phoenix already reaching triple-digits twice in 2025, the city is being proactive by updating its Trail Heat Safety Program to keep hikers safe.
A few major trails will be affected by the latest provisions of the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board. All of these rules are effective immediately, not reserved for official summer days and months.
What Phoenix trails are affected by the program updates?
At South Mountain Park, the Holbert, Mormon and Hau’pal Loop trails will not be open to public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. whenever the National Weather Service issues an extreme heat warning.
However, these new restrictions will not touch the National Trail if a hiker gets to it from all other trails besides Pima Canyon Trailhead.
While roughly 7 miles will be closed off, the city said in a press release that “more than 100 miles of trails” at the park will remain open during extreme heat warnings.
Cynthia Aguilar, director of the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department, said the updates are being made to preserve the “right balance between public access and public safety.”
“South Mountain is one of the largest urban parks in the country, and these changes help us minimize risk to hikers and first responders during extreme heat while keeping a majority of the park accessible,” she said in the release.
Did policies change at Camelback and Piestewa trails?
No, the existing extreme heat restrictions will remain in place.
Camelback Mountain’s Echo Canyon and Cholla trails and Piestewa Peak’s Summit Trail will continue to be restricted for hikers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. when NWS issues an extreme heat warning.
How did the Phoenix program changes come about?
The Trail Heat Safety Program, which was first enacted in 2021, was reviewed by Parks and Recreation board members in January and February before changes were cemented on March 27.
Public opinion and data supported the board’s decision, according to the city of Phoenix.
Last year, Phoenix saw 121 days of temperatures reaching or surpassing 105 degrees and first responders were needed for 35 rescues.
Tips for hiking in Phoenix heat
The city of Phoenix offered five quick — and potentially live-saving tips — for planning a hike as the temperatures climb.
- Schedule your expedition early, before the sunrise to avoid peak daily temperatures.
- Remember to hydrate before your hike and bring more water than you think with you.
- Dress in light-colored and light-weight clothing. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, if possible.
- Always let someone know when you are hiking if on a trail by yourself.
- Be knowledgeable of the signs of dehydration and heat stroke.
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