In recent years, Phoenix adopted measures to close hiking paths during the hottest days of the year. With triple-digit temperatures settling in for the summer, those restrictions will be back on some of the city’s most popular trails.
When the National Weather Service issues an excessive heat warning, all Piestewa Peak trails, as well as the Echo Canyon and Cholla trails at Camelback Mountain, will be closed from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Previously the trails did not close until 11 a.m. Last August, the city moved the start time up two hours. Dogs are never allowed on these trails, and when the heat reaches 100 degrees, dogs are not allowed on any city trails.
Adam Waltz is with city of Phoenix Parks and Recreation.
"The mountains are just sitting in the sun, and they’re just baking overnight. They don’t really have a chance to cool down. The idea of expanding this program is not only to keep hikers safe, but it’s also to keep first responders safe," Waltz said.
Park rangers will remain on staff at Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak, and gates to those trails will be closed.
