Dobbins Lookout
Iconic observation point offering sweeping panoramic views of Phoenix, accessible by car or hike, famous for its sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Dobbins Lookout
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic observation point offering sweeping panoramic views of Phoenix, accessible by car or hike, famous for its sunsets.
"Amazing views of the city! Very busy as I got to the parking lot around 3pm on a Saturday."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking means arriving an hour before sunset is key. Weekdays are less crowded!
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable at the top. Plan your route and download maps beforehand.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Phoenix Views
Observation deck
Witness breathtaking 360-degree views of the entire Phoenix valley, especially stunning at sunset.
Sunset Spectacle
Observation deck
Experience one of the most iconic Arizona sunsets, painting the sky with vibrant colors over the city.
Holbert Trail Hike
South Mountain Park Preserve
A moderate 4.2-mile hike offering incredible desert scenery and rewarding views along the way.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunset Views
Navigating South Mountain Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking means arriving an hour before sunset is key. Weekdays are less crowded!
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable at the top. Plan your route and download maps beforehand.
💧 Pack Snacks & Water
Bring your own refreshments to enjoy while taking in the views. Vault toilets are available.
🚶♀️ Hike or Drive Up
Choose the scenic Holbert Trail hike or drive the Summit Road for easy access. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking means arriving an hour before sunset is key. Weekdays are less crowded!
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable at the top. Plan your route and download maps beforehand.
💧 Pack Snacks & Water
Bring your own refreshments to enjoy while taking in the views. Vault toilets are available.
🚶♀️ Hike or Drive Up
Choose the scenic Holbert Trail hike or drive the Summit Road for easy access.
☀️ Silent Sundays
No cars allowed on the fourth Sunday of the month – a unique experience!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely gorgeous, breathtaking views of Phoenix, especially during sunset. The accessibility via car or hike is appreciated, and many enjoy the picnic facilities. However, be prepared for very limited parking, especially on weekends, and the potential for spotty cell service at the top.
"Simply gorgeous! Beautiful sunset and views of Phoenix at night! Bring your chips, water and snacks and come spend an hour or so here! The last 15 minutes of the drive is going up the mountain, it wasn’t bad."
Elena
"Beautiful views but go early for sunset because parking can be limited. This view point also has a vault toilet and some shaded areas with benches and picnic tables."
Nikki Neverdull
"Amazing views of the city! Very busy as I got to the parking lot around 3pm on a Saturday. It was even busier around 6pm when I left. Very small parking lot.
The trails are marked but you have to already know which trail you want to go on. No trail maps posted and almost no cell service at the top so plan ahead."
Eman Adma
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dobbins Lookout is located in South Mountain Park, about a 30-minute drive from downtown Phoenix. You can drive up via Summit Road, which is well-maintained. For a more active experience, consider hiking the Holbert Trail.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for South Mountain Park. However, Dobbins Lookout itself is free to access once you are inside the park.
South Mountain Park is generally open from 5 AM to 7 PM daily. Always check for any seasonal or event-related changes.
Public transport options to Dobbins Lookout are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the lookout.
Absolutely! The Holbert Trail is a popular 4.2-mile moderate hike that leads to Dobbins Lookout, offering stunning views along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need tickets to visit Dobbins Lookout. Access to the lookout point is free, though there is an entrance fee for South Mountain Park.
Dobbins Lookout is accessible during South Mountain Park's operating hours, typically from 5 AM to 7 PM.
Yes, on the fourth Sunday of every month, the road to Dobbins Lookout is closed to motorized traffic for 'Silent Sundays,' allowing for a car-free experience.
There is no separate parking fee for Dobbins Lookout itself, but you will pay the general entrance fee for South Mountain Park. Parking can be limited.
Dobbins Lookout is accessible during park hours, which typically end at 7 PM. For nighttime city views, consider visiting just before closing.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is incredibly popular for photography, offering dramatic lighting. Golden hour before sunset also provides beautiful, soft light for capturing the city and desert landscapes.
You can capture panoramic shots of the Phoenix skyline, expansive desert vistas, and stunning sunset colors. It's also a great spot for portraits with the city as a backdrop.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A tripod can be helpful for low-light sunset shots, but be mindful of limited space.
Yes, the observation deck offers numerous vantage points. The railing can sometimes obstruct lower shots, but there are plenty of angles to explore.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the incredible panoramic view of Phoenix. You can also enjoy a picnic, take photos, or hike the Holbert Trail to reach it.
Yes, there are vault toilets available at Dobbins Lookout for visitor convenience.
It can get very crowded, especially on weekends and around sunset. Arriving early is recommended to find parking and a good spot.
On the fourth Sunday of each month, the road to Dobbins Lookout is closed to cars, making it a peaceful, pedestrian-only experience.
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to hike. Layers are a good idea as temperatures can change.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during 'Silent Sundays' on the fourth Sunday of the month for a unique, car-free experience where kids can safely explore the area around the lookout. If your family enjoys a bit of adventure, the lower portions of the Holbert Trail can be a fun, shorter hike for older children, offering a taste of the desert landscape without the full commitment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and drinks to save money on dining out. The hike up the Holbert Trail is a free and rewarding activity that offers incredible scenery. Overall, Dobbins Lookout provides a high-value experience without a significant cost.
❤️ Couples & Date Nights
Consider timing your visit for 'Silent Sundays' for an even more intimate and peaceful experience. The drive up the mountain and the expansive views offer a sense of adventure and shared discovery, making it a memorable outing for couples.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Dobbins Lookout Sunsets
+1To truly capture the magic, arriving at least an hour before sunset is crucial. This allows ample time to find parking, which can be extremely limited, especially on weekends. Many visitors recommend bringing snacks and water to enjoy while waiting for the main event. The changing light throughout the hour before and after sunset offers a dynamic photographic opportunity, from the warm golden hour glow to the deep purples and oranges of twilight.
For those seeking a more serene experience, consider visiting on a weekday or during the 'Silent Sundays' on the fourth Sunday of each month, when the road is closed to vehicles. This unique event transforms the ascent into a peaceful journey, allowing for a more immersive connection with the natural beauty of South Mountain Park.
Hiking to Dobbins Lookout: The Holbert Trail
Reviewers often note that the views during the hike itself can be as impressive as those from the lookout point. The trail is generally well-marked, but it's always wise to have a map or download an offline version, as cell service can be unreliable at higher elevations. The Holbert Trail is a fantastic way to experience the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert and earn your panoramic reward at Dobbins Lookout.
When planning your hike, remember to wear appropriate footwear, bring plenty of water, and check the weather conditions. Starting earlier in the day can help you avoid the midday heat, especially during warmer months. The hike provides a great alternative for those who prefer to explore on foot rather than drive to the top.
South Mountain Park: A City Gem
The park's history and natural significance are often highlighted by park staff, like the knowledgeable gentleman mentioned in one review. It's a testament to the city's commitment to preserving natural landscapes within a bustling metropolitan area. The variety of terrain, from desert scrub to higher elevations, supports diverse flora and fauna, making it a valuable ecological resource.
Beyond Dobbins Lookout, South Mountain Park offers numerous other points of interest and trails. Its sheer scale means there's always something new to explore, whether you're seeking challenging hikes, scenic drives, or simply a quiet spot to enjoy the desert air. The park truly embodies the spirit of outdoor adventure within the city limits.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit