Incredible Hidden Valley Petroglyph Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert

Phoenix, Arizona

Incredible Hidden Valley Petroglyph Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert

Phoenix, Arizona

Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes

Overview

Discover the rugged beauty and ancient secrets of Hidden Valley on a four-mile hike through South Mountain, Phoenix. Traverse challenging terrain, explore historical petroglyphs, and uncover the mysteries of an abandoned mine in this moderate to difficult trek.

🏞️ Traverse the unique landscape of Hidden Valley, navigating through Fat Man’s Pass and natural rock tunnels

🎒 Engage in physical challenges like rock hopping and scrambling over dry waterfalls

👀 Discover ancient petroglyphs that offer a glimpse into the area’s early inhabitants

🔍 Explore an abandoned mine and uncover the hidden secrets of South Mountain

Availability

When do I choose a date?

After purchase, you can request your preferred dates and times by following the instructions in the email you receive. If it's a gift, the recipient will also get an email with booking instructions.

Year-Round,
Daily

Full description

Set out on a four-mile hike through Hidden Valley in South Mountain, Phoenix, where challenging terrain meets rich history. The trail climbs 1,117 feet and features distinctive landmarks such as Fat Man’s Pass, a Natural Cave, and massive rock formations that create natural tunnels. More than just a physical journey, this hike offers a glimpse into the past with its ancient petroglyph sites and an abandoned mine, providing a direct link to the area’s early inhabitants.

This hike, rated as moderate to difficult, requires some rock hopping and scrambling over dry waterfalls, adding an element of adventure to the experience. As you navigate through Hidden Valley's rugged landscape, you’ll encounter both the natural beauty and the mysterious historical artifacts that make this area unique. Ideal for those interested in geology and archaeology, the trek is a rewarding exploration of both the natural environment and the cultural heritage of the Sonoran Desert.

Practical information

Any restrictions to participate?

Age: 12+
Experience level: This hike is considered moderate to difficult, and may not be suitable for beginners due to the physical demands of scrambling and rock-hopping.

Who can you accommodate for?

Children: All participants must pay to participate, children included.
Individuals with disabilities: The route may not be accessible for individuals with mobility impairments due to the nature of the terrain.
Pets: Sorry, no pets allowed.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

Duration: 3-4 hours.
What’s included: Professional guide service, use of lightweight backpacks, purified bottled water, healthy trail snacks, sunscreen, and cold drinks post-hike.
Who will be present: You will have a professional guide with you at all times; the group size is limited to 10 people.
Photo/ video: You are encouraged to take your own photos during the hike.

How to prepare?

Weather dependency: The hike will proceed rain or shine, except in severe weather conditions.
Arrival: Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start to allow for preparation.
Parking: Parking details will be provided upon booking.
What to wear: Running or hiking shoes with good grip and tread, hiking shorts or pants, long-sleeved layers in cooler weather, a hat, and sunglasses.
What to bring:
- Reusable water bottles are highly encouraged to minimize plastic waste. Additional water will be available.
- You might also want to bring additional snacks, personal medications, and cameras.

Anything else I should know before going on this experience?

Gratuities for your guide are not included but are appreciated for great service.

Returns, exchanges and cancellation

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 30 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 24 hours before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 24 hours in advance means losing the value of your experience.