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Dobbins Lookout: Phoenix's Panoramic Peak

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Phoenix from Dobbins Lookout, the highest accessible point in South Mountain Park.

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Dobbins Lookout, perched atop South Mountain, offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and the surrounding Sonoran Desert landscape. A historic stone ramada, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, provides shade and a glimpse into the area's rich history.

A brief summary to Dobbins Lookout

  • 10919 South Central Avenue, Phoenix, South Mountain Village, Arizona, 85042, US
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Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Bring water, especially if you plan to hike, as the desert climate can be very dehydrating.
  • Check the South Mountain Park website for alerts, closures, and information about Silent Sundays when vehicle access is restricted.
  • Keep an eye out for chuckwallas, harmless lizards with orange tails, that are commonly found in the park.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Phoenix, head south on Central Avenue. Central Avenue becomes Summit Road once you enter South Mountain Park. Follow Summit Road for approximately 5.5 miles to reach Dobbins Lookout. The road is paved but winding with a speed limit of 15 mph, so exercise caution and be aware of cyclists and hikers. Parking is free, but the lot can be crowded, especially on weekends. There is no fee to enter South Mountain Park.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Valley Metro bus service to the vicinity of South Central Avenue. Route 77 stops at 40th St & Fremont Dr, about a 7-minute walk from the South Mountain Park entrance. From there, walk or use a rideshare service to reach Dobbins Lookout at 10919 South Central Avenue. A single bus fare is $2.00.

  • Walking

    For hikers already within South Mountain Park, follow the well-marked trails leading to Dobbins Lookout. A popular route is the Holbert Trail, a moderately challenging 4-mile round trip hike. From the main entrance, the hike is approximately 2.5 miles and can take 1-1.5 hours. Ensure you have comfortable shoes and plenty of water.

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Discover more about Dobbins Lookout

Dobbins Lookout, situated at 2,330 feet within South Mountain Park and Preserve, stands as one of the highest accessible points in the area, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Phoenix and the valley. From this vantage point, visitors can see the sprawling cityscape, the surrounding desert, and landmarks like the Superstition Mountains. The lookout is named after James C. Dobbins, who spearheaded efforts to purchase the land in 1963. The stone ramada at the summit, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression, provides a tangible link to the past. This structure offers shade and frames the stunning views, reminding visitors of the conservation efforts that shaped the park. South Mountain Park itself was established in 1924 and has grown to over 16,000 acres, becoming a cherished natural escape for both locals and tourists. Visitors can reach Dobbins Lookout either by hiking or driving. Summit Road, a scenic 5.5-mile paved road, winds its way up the mountain, offering stunning views at every turn. For those who prefer to hike, the Holbert Trail provides a moderately challenging 4-mile round trip experience. Along the trails, hikers can discover ancient petroglyphs, remnants of the Hohokam people who once inhabited the area. Dobbins Lookout is a popular spot for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a stunning perspective of the Valley of the Sun.

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