Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike in Phoenix
Phoenix, United States

Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike

Outty Ranking 74 4.9 · 39 traveler reviews1.5 hoursFrom $35

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September 2026

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Adults

Age 13 and over

2

Children

Age 12 and under

0

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From, per person$35
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Outty Ranking

74/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 39 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike worth booking?

Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike is a 1.5-hour experience in Phoenix, United States, from $35 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 39 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
74 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (39)
Duration
1.5 hours
From
$35 per person

On this unique experience, you'll explore the Sonoran Desert in Phoenix under a canopy of darkness. Armed with a UV flashlight, you’ll uncover scorpions—their exoskeletons aglow in mesmerizing blue-green hues—and other c

What you get

    About this experience

    On this unique experience, you'll explore the Sonoran Desert in Phoenix under a canopy of darkness. Armed with a UV flashlight, you’ll uncover scorpions—their exoskeletons aglow in mesmerizing blue-green hues—and other cool things that glow at night. City lights twinkle in the distance, while above, a canvas of moon and stars unfolds. It’s a dance between the earthly and the cosmic, leaving you both humbled and exhilarated.

    What's included

    Included

    • Expert guide
    • Immersive learning
    • Ultraviolet flashlights
    • Scenic views

    Not included

    • Transportation
    • Snacks
    • Bottled water
    • Gratuities

    What you'll see and do

    1. Phoenix Mountains Preserve

      For this fun, nighttime glow hike in the iconic Sonoran Desert of Arizona, I’ll provide everything your group needs for an unforgettable outing. As daylight fades to night, we’ll hike into the desert. When the only light is the glow of stars and distant city lights, everyone’s invited to switch on their special ”black light” flashlights that I’ll provide. You’ll be amazed by the number of bioluminescent things your magic light reveals that are invisible in broad daylight or with a regular flashlight. Be mesmerized by glowing insects, minerals and fossilized algae to name a few of the objects we’ll see. In case that’s not enough, you’ll laugh like a kid as members of your crew light up like glow sticks when you aim your purple beam at them. After spotting cool finds and once-in-a-lifetime photo opps, we'll head back to starting point. Want to take it to the next level? Wear blacklight-friendly clothing for the hike.

      65 minutes here

    2. Piestewa Peak

      First, we’ll take a few minutes to get acquainted just before dusk at a little-known trailhead in North Phoenix. Next, we'll make our way into the desert on a gently sloped trail with great views of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, with Piestewa Peak-second tallest in Phoenix-in our line of sight.

      15 minutes here

    3. Phoenix

      As we approach the high point of the tour, you'll be amazed by the splendor of millions of city lights stretching for miles across the desert landscape.

      10 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Phoenix

    You'll find our meet up location just east (left) of 3143 E Puget Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85028. Head south on 32nd Street from State Route 51 or Shea Blvd until you arrive at the end of the street.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    You'll find our meet up location just east (left) of 3143 E Puget Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85028. Head south on 32nd Street from State Route 51 or Shea Blvd until you arrive at the end of the street.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 12 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    AZ Wonders

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Must be able to walk 2 miles on rugged, hilly terrain.
    • Not recommended for anyone with poor night vision.
    • Not recommended for anyone bad knees or ankles.
    • Not recommended for anyone who cannot walk 2 miles on rugged, hilly terrrain without assistance
    • Not recommended for anyone with poor balance.

    Photos

    Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike in Phoenix, photo 2One of a kind experienceFun group experienceSee and learn about desert lifeDiscover unforgettable sights in the desert

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 39 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Physical effort

    7 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    5 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Good for families

    5 mentions

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Photo opportunities

    3 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    39 verified traveler reviews for Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    37
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    stefano_s · August 2026

    Great experience

    We had a great time on the Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike with our group (3 adults and 1 kid). It was a very cool and unique experience. During the hike, we only saw scorpions, but it was super interesting! The best part was that we even spotted two giant scorpions, which was really exciting for everyone. The guide made sure we were safe and showed us how to find them in the dark. We loved the experience from start to finish. Highly recommended for families looking for an exciting night activity!

    via Viator

    Michelle_B · July 2026

    Loved this glow hike!

    Wear cool, white or bright clothing, short sleeves, shorts, comfortable hiking shoes. Bring water. Bring your phone fully charged for pictures and videos! My husband and I ended up being the only ones on this hike. It was great! Paul was very knowledgeable. We saw lots of scorpions and a mouse! The view of the city from the top was lovely! If I go again, I would bring glow sticks or glow necklaces/bracelets! So fun!

    via Viator

    fglasker · June 2026

    No show!!!

    My family and I were really looking forward to this tour, especially coming all the from Michigan but no one showed up for the tour. No participants and no activity director. The only positive thing I can say is Viator returned our payment without issues.

    Response from the operator: From tour operator: A glitch in the app showed that this booking was cancelled by the guest.

    via Viator

    241abbeys · May 2026

    Even cooler than we expected!

    Very cool experience; would be especially great for kids who might not be thrilled with a more traditional hike.

    via Tripadvisor

    Rasa_K · May 2026

    Fun experience

    It is easy hike, but still make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes , and have a bottle of water . We saw 25 plus scorpions!! The tour guy was wonderful, and very knowledgeable. We learned lots of interesting facts about night desert life.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    1.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $35 to $75
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    14
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Why this scores 74

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)91
    Review evidence (18% weight)51
    Booking momentum (14% weight)44
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)70
    Local standing (8% weight)57
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Phoenix.

    How much does Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike cost?

    +

    Prices start at $35 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Phoenix usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike take?

    +

    Plan for about 1.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Phoenix is not rushed.

    Is Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 39 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Phoenix, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike?

    +

    Around 14 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Phoenix can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Phoenix and add a light layer if any part of the 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Phoenix Mountains Preserve Night Glow Hike start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Phoenix within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Phoenix?

    +

    Phoenix runs on desert experiences: sunrise hot air balloon lifts over the Sonoran, Camelback and South Mountain hikes, off-road Tonto Forest tours and day trips to Sedona and the Grand Canyon. Heat safety and start times decide whether a tour is good, so we weight timing detail in the ranking. On Outty we rank every Phoenix experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kayaking the Salt River Foxtail Trip, Grand Canyon with Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon Van Tour, Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Phoenix?

    +

    November to April. Summer tours run at dawn or not at all. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Phoenix?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

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