West Wing Mountain Preserve

The West Wing Mountain Preserve is situated in Peoria amidst residential areas, featuring a collection of low-elevation mountains. These mountains include Peoria Sunrise, East Wing, West Wing, and the Thunderbird Mountains, none of which exceed 2,000 feet in height. Despite their modest elevation, all of them offer enjoyable hiking experiences.

West Wing Mountain is particularly suitable for a leisurely day hike, providing ample space for a 4-mile trek with various loops and side trails. While it may not be as popular as some of the urban hiking destinations in Phoenix, it is still frequented by hikers, especially on weekends.

The primary summit of West Wing Mountain stands at 1,930 feet, accompanied by several other peaks and lookout points accessible along the ridge.

To access the main trail, one must either park in the nearby neighborhoods or walk through them. There is an abundance of parking available, and the trail can be accessed from the southern side. Notably, the lands to the north of West Wing Mountain have remained undeveloped as of the autumn of 2018.

Hiking in the West Wing Mountain Preserve is viable throughout the year, although embarking on early morning hikes during the summer is advisable. The optimal period for hiking in this area is between October and March.