Shaw Butte Trail

The Shaw Butte Trail is part of Phoenix Mountain Preserve, and is described as very dog friendly. This trail is a great way to get a workout, while enjoying Arizona's classic desert landscape. The early mornings are a great time to enjoy this hike, so as to beat the crowds and the blistering hot sun. It's the pawfect way to enjoy some fresh air and exercise with your canine adventure companion. 

The trailhead can be found on the left side of the North Mountain Visitor Center. The center is open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Here you will find free parking, although on a gorgeous day it may be a challenge to find a spot. On your travels you're likely to encounter other doggos, mountain bikers, and maybe even horseback riders. There are plenty of other creatures in the area as well, including falcons and rabbits. 

The trail is an old service road that leads up to the broadcast antennas on top of the butte. There are sections of the trail that are made of asphalt, but it's mostly loose, rocky terrain. From the trailhead, it starts off fairly easy, but there are some steep and rocky sections that are sure to kick your butte! While this hike will get your heart pumping and give you a workout, it's also not too difficult for children if you take your time. It's wide and nicely marked, so you're unlikely to lose your way. 

Once you reach the top of Shaw Butte, you and your pupper will be rewarded with 360 degree views of the city and the surrounding landscape. This is also the location of "Cloud Nine", the concrete remains of an elite Phoenix restaurant that burned to the ground and was never rebuilt. 

Dogs are more than welcome along trail, as long as proper petiquette is followed. This includes keeping your pal leashed, on the trail, and picked up after, so be sure to bring clean up bags. 

Spending some time on Shaw Butte Trail with their favorite human is sure to get your dog's tail wagging!