Red Mountain Park
Mesa's expansive desert park with trails, a lake for fishing, sports facilities, and picnic spots. Also features a historic mine in Birmingham.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the intense Arizona heat.
Red Mountain Park
Best Time
Escape the intense Arizona heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Mesa's expansive desert park with trails, a lake for fishing, sports facilities, and picnic spots. Also features a historic mine in Birmingham.
"A surprisingly large desert park with nice trails and a lake, perfect for outdoor activities."
💧 Beat the Heat
Visit during cooler months or early/late in the day to avoid extreme Arizona temperatures.
🎣 Fishing Fun
The lake is stocked periodically; catfish are a possibility if fishing deep.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Desert Trails
Various locations throughout the park
Explore miles of scenic desert paths perfect for walking, running, or mountain biking. Enjoy the unique flora and fauna.
The Lake
Central area of the park
A surprisingly large lake offering fishing opportunities and a pleasant spot for a peaceful picnic or relaxation.
Sports Complex
North end of the park
Featuring fields for soccer, baseball, volleyball, and a pickleball court, it's a hub for active recreation.
Abandoned Mine
Birmingham, Alabama location
Discover the remnants of Birmingham's industrial past with this historic, though inaccessible, abandoned mine.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mesa's Desert Oasis
Beyond the High School
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Beat the Heat
Visit during cooler months or early/late in the day to avoid extreme Arizona temperatures.
🎣 Fishing Fun
The lake is stocked periodically; catfish are a possibility if fishing deep.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the desert trails; mountain biking is popular.
🐶 Pet Friendly
Leashed pets are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Beat the Heat
Visit during cooler months or early/late in the day to avoid extreme Arizona temperatures.
🎣 Fishing Fun
The lake is stocked periodically; catfish are a possibility if fishing deep.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the desert trails; mountain biking is popular.
🐶 Pet Friendly
Leashed pets are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends.
🚗 Easy Parking
Ample parking is available, and park rangers help keep things running smoothly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Red Mountain Park in Mesa for its surprisingly large desert landscape, extensive walking trails, and pleasant lake area, making it ideal for fishing and picnics. The park is also noted for its clean facilities, good lighting, and friendly atmosphere, though some mention the lake isn't always stocked for fishing. The Birmingham location offers historical intrigue with its abandoned mine.
"This is a really nice park in north Mesa that is much larger than I thought. I have lived in this area for 4 years and have only driven by a few times. There are a lot of very nice areas to walk through the desert and around the small lake. I will definitely be going back to spend more time when it is cooler. Today thought I saw two bald eagles; one flew over my head and then grabbed something, probably a fish, out of the lake. It landed on top of a power pole and started chowing down. Another eagle, definitely larger, was farther down on another pole. Truly surreal as it was 104 out today."
John Payne
"it was a beautiful day out. There’s an easy walking trail around the lake. The lake was bigger than I was expecting. There’s a lot of people fishing, but nobody seem to have any fish yet. One guy told me there might be some catfish down deep but they only stock it like every three months or so! Lots of places to sit on a bench and enjoy the view!"
Rose Curtis
"Excellent spot to fishing,running or walking,its pet friendly and great spot to celebrate birthdays or just to have a peaceful picnic,lovely playground for the little ones plus bathroom 🚻"
Paulina K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Red Mountain Park is located in Mesa, Arizona. It's accessible by car, and there are multiple entrances. It's a larger park, so check a map for the best access point to specific facilities you plan to use.
No, they are separate. Red Mountain High School is a landmark in Mesa, but Red Mountain Park is a distinct, expansive recreational area.
The park is best explored by car to reach different areas, but once there, walking, running, and biking are ideal for enjoying the trails and facilities.
Public transport options to Red Mountain Park in Mesa may be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services.
No, there are two distinct Red Mountain Parks. One is in Mesa, Arizona, known for its desert trails and lake. The other is in Birmingham, Alabama, famous for its historic industrial sites and hiking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Red Mountain Park in Mesa is generally free to enter, offering access to trails, the lake, and playgrounds.
Park hours can vary, but it's typically open from early morning until late evening. It's advisable to check the official Mesa Parks and Recreation website for the most current hours.
For general park access, no booking is required. However, if you plan to reserve a picnic area or host an event, you may need to contact Mesa Parks and Recreation.
Standard park rules apply. Alcohol and amplified music may be restricted. Check with Mesa Parks and Recreation for specific guidelines.
No, the abandoned mine in Red Mountain Park, Birmingham, is not accessible to the public for safety reasons, but it's an interesting historical site to view.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, running, mountain biking on desert trails, fishing in the lake, picnicking, playing at the playground, and participating in various sports like soccer, baseball, volleyball, and pickleball.
Yes, clean bathrooms are available throughout the park, which is a great amenity for visitors.
Absolutely! It features a lovely playground for little ones, plenty of space to run around, and picnic areas, making it a family-friendly destination.
Yes, fishing is permitted in the lake. While it's stocked periodically, some visitors report success catching catfish.
The park is well-lit at night, contributing to a safe and pleasant evening experience for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within Red Mountain Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics.
The park offers numerous picnic sites with benches, providing lovely spots to enjoy a meal amidst the natural surroundings.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, especially for picnics.
Typically, there are no regular food vendors at Red Mountain Park. It's best to come prepared with your own provisions.
Given the desert setting, light and refreshing foods are popular. Think sandwiches, salads, fruits, and plenty of water.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning desert landscapes, the serene lake, wildlife (like eagles, as one visitor reported!), and the sports facilities. The abandoned mine in Birmingham also offers unique historical shots.
Yes, the desert scenery, especially during sunrise or sunset, provides beautiful opportunities for landscape photography.
You might spot various desert creatures and birds. Remember to maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones.
Drone usage is typically regulated in city parks. It's essential to check with Mesa Parks and Recreation for their specific drone policy before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents can also feel at ease knowing that the park is well-lit at night and often has park rangers present, ensuring a safe environment. While the lake offers fishing opportunities, it's also a pleasant spot for kids to observe nature. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, especially during warmer months.
👟 Active Adventurers
Beyond the trails, the park features dedicated sports facilities, including soccer fields, baseball diamonds, volleyball courts, and a pickleball court. Whether you're looking for a strenuous workout or a friendly game, there are plenty of options to keep you engaged.
🎣 Anglers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to explore the desert flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for local bird species; one visitor even reported seeing bald eagles! The park's natural setting provides a refreshing escape and a chance to connect with the environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Red Mountain Park's Trails
When planning your trail adventure, remember that the Arizona sun can be intense. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, bring plenty of water, and consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day, especially in spring and fall. The trails provide a fantastic way to experience the local flora and fauna, with some visitors even reporting sightings of wildlife like bald eagles.
For those interested in the Birmingham, Alabama location, Red Mountain Park also offers significant hiking opportunities, including access to historical sites like the abandoned mine. The trails here are known for their beauty and the chance to connect with the region's industrial heritage.
Fishing and Recreation at the Lake
Beyond fishing, the lake area is perfect for picnics and enjoying the scenic views. Benches are scattered around, offering comfortable spots to sit and take in the surroundings. The park's commitment to providing amenities like clean bathrooms and ample parking enhances the overall visitor experience, making it a convenient place for a day out.
The park also offers a wide array of sports facilities, including soccer fields, baseball diamonds, volleyball courts, and a pickleball court, making it a versatile destination for both active pursuits and leisurely enjoyment.
A Glimpse into History: Birmingham's Red Mountain Park
The park itself is a beautiful expanse with numerous hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area while connecting with its history. Events like 'Go Tell It On Red Mountain' further immerse visitors in Birmingham's industrial narrative, bringing to life the experiences of its former workers.
This blend of natural scenery and historical significance makes Red Mountain Park in Birmingham a compelling destination for those seeking both outdoor activity and a deeper understanding of the area's heritage.
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