4 Ridgeline Hikes Near Phoenix
I’ll admit it. I’m a huge sucker for ridgeline hikes. I love standing on peak after peak, enjoying 360-degree panoramic views, and watching the views change throughout the day.
So any time I hear of a hike that traverses a mountain range, I’m in! If you feel the same way, try these four ridgeline hikes near the Phoenix area.
Superstition Ridgeline
Mileage 10.6
Elevation gain 4860
The crown jewel of the Superstition Wilderness, this strenuous hike across the ridgeline of the Superstition Mountains also happens to be my favorite hike in the valley. Make an optional side trip to Peak 5057 or Flatiron, and be prepared for rugged terrain and some route finding.
The full report
Superstition Ridgeline
South Mountain Ridgeline
Mileage 15.8
Elevation gain 3650
Though longer than the Superstition Ridgeline, somehow this hike just doesn’t feel as difficult. The trail is well-defined, but the tradeoff is you’ll have mostly city views and some sections that parallel the summit road. Visit Fat Man’s Pass and the Natural Bridge along the way.
The full report
South Mountain Ridgeline
Pass Mountain Ridgeline
Mileage 7.7
Elevation gain 2155
If you don’t mind a bit of scrambling, this hike will take you to the two summits of Pass Mountain where you’ll get far better views than what you see from the Wind Cave. Complete this as a loop by hiking down the Wind Cave Trail, or just turn around and go back the way you came.
The full report
Pass Mountain Ridgeline
McDowell Mountains Rim to Rim
Mileage 14.5
Elevation gain 2967
Okay, this one isn’t exactly a ridgeline. There is no trail along the ridgeline, so you’ll have to settle for the next best thing: a hike from Tom’s Thumb on the north end to Sunrise Peak on the south end. If you’re not feeling challenged enough, you can always summit Thompson Peak on the way.
The full report
McDowell Mountains Traverse
If you do these hikes, let me know! Which one is your favorite?
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