Overview

Hype:

The Holbert Trail to Dobbins Lookout in South Mountain Park, Phoenix, is a moderately challenging hike offering expansive views of the city and surrounding desert. The trail spans approximately 3.6 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of about 1,100 feet, and typically takes 2 to 3 hours to complete. Starting from the water tanks on Mineral Road, the trail begins with a gentle ascent. As the hike progresses, the terrain becomes steeper, featuring switchbacks that lead to Dobbins Lookout, the highest point in the park accessible by trail. At the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and can rest under a stone ramada built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The trail is well-marked and maintained, with restrooms available at the summit. Hikers should carry ample water, wear sturdy footwear, and avoid the trail during the heat of the day, especially in summer months. Dogs are permitted on the trail but must be kept on a leash. There is no fee to access the trail.

Trail Condition: Class 2 (Trail may have tree roots or rocks jutting out. Navigation skills may consist of following rock cairns and choosing turns at junctions. Elevation gains may be more substantial.)

Time: 2-3 hours

Length: 3.6 miles out and back

Elevation Gain: 1,106 ft

Fees: None

Recommended Ages:

	0-3
	4-11
	12-19
	20-49
	50-69
	70+

Recommended Months to Visit:

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Links: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arizona/holbert-trail-to-dobbins-lookout

Getting There

Navigate to 33.356053, -112.064076.

Maps

Closest City or Region: Phoenix, Arizona

Coordinates: 33.345486, -112.058626

Interactive Guide Map

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February 21, 2025 Trip Report

By Jeremy Dye

Trip Members

Jeremy Dye,

Logistics

Start: 7:15

Dobbin's Lookout: 8:00

Start Hike Down: 8:10

Finish: 8:40

Story

After my training, on Friday, I hiked the Holbert Trail up to Dobbins Lookout. 

The lookout has a road to it, but by the time I made it up to the peak, there was almost nobody there because it was getting late. I enjoyed taking pictures of Phoenix at night from the top of the mountain and used my headlamp to get some creative lighting on the stone structure framing the views. 

I hiked back down by headlamp then went back to my hotel.

 

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Pictures