I love South Mt. So why three stars? I'll tell you why. Because recently our bonehead government decided to start charging $6 per vehicle when it used to be free. Do any government officials have a clue that it was already getting harder and harder to drive to South Mt. on account of the gas prices? Do they have a clue that it's possible to work your ass off and still be bored out of your skull come the weekend because there's no money left over after the bills? Of course not.
That being said, I loved it when it was free. The Kiwanis Trail offers glimpses of petroglyphs carved by the Hohokam. The trail going up to Dobbin's Lookout is scenic. One time I was hanging out at a ramada when a coral snake slitthered happily past me, like hi ya, I'm just chillin'. Another time, I drove my husband up to the Lookout and he was freaked out about the height. Another time I took my red tabby to Scorpion Gulch for some photos. My cousin-in-law was conceived at Dobbin's Lookout. For some of you, it would make a good baby making place.
In Phoenix's efforts to be touristy and environmentally friendly, they have started a ridiculous schedule where the fourth Sunday of each month, they close all vehicle access and all the marathoners crowd the place. San Juan Rd., which leads to the National Trail, is only open the first Sat and Sun of each month. Check the website schedule before you get disappointed.