The National Trail, a.k.a. the South Mountain Summit Trail, winds along the crest of the park's dark crags and is popular with hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers. This is urban desert hiking so don't expect to be lonely out there.

     Keep in mind that you don't have to trek the entire trail. Spend a couple of hours up on the hill and head on home. Or take the trail in stages. How ever much time you spend on the trail or in the park be sure to bring plenty of water.

     To get there, follow Central Avenue, the main drag in Phoenix, south to the park entrance. Take San Juan Road to its demise and follow the signs. There's also a way to get to the trail from Ahwatukee. Take Interstate 10 to Guadalupe Road exit. Follow Guadalupe to 48th Street and turn on Monte Way. Follow the road to the end Pima Canyon Road and loop for signs.

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