Deem Hills
Volcanic rock, punchy climbs, and surprisingly few crowds.
About This Trail
Deem Hills Recreation Area is a nearly 1,000-acre pocket of Sonoran Desert known for its striking black basalt volcanic rock formations — the remnants of 1.6-million-year-old lava flows. The trail system offers about 14.5 miles across five well-maintained trails, with the 5.7-mile Circumference Trail forming the main loop around the two hills. The Ridgeline Trail is the crown jewel at 1.5 miles, climbing to 2,050 feet with steep switchbacks and the most technical terrain in the park. What makes Deem Hills special for mountain bikers is its combination of quick-hit intensity and low crowds — this place never gets the traffic that South Mountain or the Sonoran Preserve sees. The basalt rock creates a uniquely rocky and technical riding surface on the upper trails, while the lower Circumference Trail stays more moderate. Two trailheads provide access from the east and west sides. For Anthem riders looking for a short but intense after-work session with real elevation gain and genuinely technical features, Deem Hills punches well above its weight. You can ride every trail in the park in under two hours and still feel like you got a serious workout.
Highlights
- Unique 1.6-million-year-old black basalt volcanic rock formations create a one-of-a-kind riding surface.
- Ridgeline Trail climbs to 2,050 feet with 353 feet of elevation gain and steep, technical switchbacks.
- Consistently uncrowded compared to other Phoenix-area trail systems — great for a quiet ride.
- Compact trail system lets you ride all 14.5 miles of trail in a single two-hour session.
Riding Tips
Start at the East Trailhead and climb the Water Tower Road to access Palisade and Ridgeline trails for the best technical riding.
Ride the Circumference Trail first as a warm-up before tackling Ridgeline — the switchbacks are steep and rocky.
The basalt rock is extremely grippy when dry but gets slippery when wet — avoid riding after rain.
Bring a hardtail or short-travel trail bike — the trails are technical but not long enough to justify full enduro setup.
Heading to Deem Hills?
Stop by Sunset Cyclery first for a pre-ride tune-up, fresh tires, or trail recommendations from people who actually ride here.