Looking for places in Arizona where you can hike at night without breaking any rules? These 6 parks are open all year, don’t need any special permits, and 6 out of 6 are open and suitable for both solo and group night hiking.
Table of Contents
What Makes a Good Official Night Hiking Spot?
Before we dive into the list, let’s clarify what sets these parks apart:
- Official Night Hiking Access: These parks have clear policies allowing visitors on trails after sunset, ensuring you’re not trespassing or risking fines.
- Year-Round Availability: You can hike these trails comfortably both in the summer heat and during milder winters.
- Self-Guided Trails: No need for permits or mandatory guides.
- Safety: Trails are maintained and well-known, making night hiking less risky if you come prepared.
Can You Camp While Night Hiking at These Parks?
If you’re planning to combine night hiking with camping—these six Arizona parks are not the place to do it.
🛑 Camping is Not Allowed
All six official, self-guided night hiking spots featured in this guide are day-use and night-use only, with no overnight stays, no tents, no fires, and no camping allowed under park rules.
The Top 6 Official Year-Round Night Hiking Parks in Arizona
1. South Mountain Park (Phoenix)
Location: South Phoenix, near downtown
Fame: One of the largest municipal parks in the U.S. and a desert hiking icon.
Night Hiking Access: Officially open for night hiking year-round, with many well-marked trails.
Trail Info: Offers multiple loops ranging from easy to challenging, including the popular Mormon Trail and National Trail.
Safety Tips: Stick to well-marked trails and avoid venturing into rugged, steep areas at night.
Parking & Facilities: Ample parking near main trailheads; restrooms available during daylight hours.
2. North Mountain Park (Phoenix)
Location: North Central Phoenix
Fame: Popular with locals for daytime and nighttime hikes alike.
Night Hiking Access: Open year-round for night hiking on designated trails.
Trail Info: Moderate trails totaling around 5 miles, suitable for evening strolls or vigorous hikes.
Safety Tips: Carry a flashlight or headlamp; watch for rocky terrain.
Parking & Facilities: Free parking near the visitor center; restrooms available during park hours.
3. Papago Park (Phoenix)
Location: Near Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden
Fame: Famous for its unique red sandstone buttes and easy access.
Night Hiking Access: Trails are open year-round and popular for casual night walks.
Trail Info: Short, easy loops like the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail, perfect for beginners.
Safety Tips: Easy terrain but watch your step on rocky paths.
Parking & Facilities: Plenty of parking; restrooms nearby.
4. Tempe Butte (“A” Mountain)
Location: Tempe, near Arizona State University
Fame: Iconic urban hike with the large letter “A” landmark.
Night Hiking Access: Open 24/7, making it a favorite for late-night city views.
Trail Info: Short and steep trails, roughly 1 mile round trip.
Safety Tips: The trail is steep; take care going down after dark.
Parking & Facilities: Street parking available; no restrooms.
5. Thunderbird Conservation Park (Glendale)
Location: Glendale, northwest Phoenix metro
Fame: Local favorite with a peaceful, natural setting.
Night Hiking Access: Open year-round for night hiking.
Trail Info: Moderate trails totaling 6+ miles with varied terrain.
Safety Tips: Trails can be uneven; bring a good light source.
Parking & Facilities: Free parking; limited facilities.
6. Fountain Hills Community Park
Location: Fountain Hills, northeast of Phoenix
Fame: Lesser-known but officially open for night hiking.
Night Hiking Access: Open year-round, popular with locals for evening walks.
Trail Info: Easy to moderate trails, great for casual hikers.
Safety Tips: Well-lit areas but bring a flashlight for trails.
Parking & Facilities: Ample parking and restroom facilities.
What About Other Parks?
While many Arizona parks offer beautiful daytime hikes, most close their trails at sunset or only allow night hikes during special events.
Parks like Usery Mountain Regional Park, San Tan Mountain Regional Park, and White Tank Mountain Regional Park have seasonal or event-based night hiking options but aren’t open year-round after dark.
Do You Need a Special Permit for Night Hiking in Arizona?
One of the great advantages of night hiking in many Arizona parks is that you generally do not need any special permits to hit the trails after dark—especially at the official spots featured in this guide like South Mountain Park, Papago Park, and North Mountain Park.
These parks welcome self-guided night hikers year-round within their regular operating hours.
That means you can explore the trails freely without worrying about paperwork or fees, as long as you follow posted rules and stay on designated paths.
Important reminders:
- Always check the official park website or contact the visitor center before your hike to confirm there are no temporary restrictions or trail closures.
- Special permits might be required for activities such as guided tours, backcountry camping, or organized nighttime events — but not for individual night hiking on marked trails.
- Respect park regulations to help preserve the natural environment and ensure night hiking remains accessible for everyone.
Conclusion
Before reading this post, you might have wondered:
“Do I need permits? Can I go solo?”
“Is night hiking even legal in Arizona?”
“Where can I go that’s safe and open after dark?”
Now, you’ve got clear answers.
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