Fat Man's Pass via National Trail
4.3 mi
Distance
2 hrs 25 min
Time
terrain
428 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This is a easy loop trail to Fat Man's Pass in South Mountain Preserve.
Getting Started
National Trail is really popular with the mountain bikers and you will pass many on this section of the trail. Fatman’s pass is the highlight of this trip. The rock formations make a natural slide where both kids and adults slide down the slick rock and squeeze though the pass. This area is a natural playground and you should plan to spend some time around beautiful rock formations and take a snack break before heading back on the trail.
Taking Children
This is a great hike for pets and children.
Sights to See
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Public Tracks
Fat mans Pass at National & Hidden Valley Trails at South Mountain 5.1 Miles, 780’ Elevation
Fat Man’s Pass from the West (South Mountain). Rating D+. Dennis Zigmunt leads. This is a 4.5-mile out and back hike with an elevation gain of about 600 ft. It follows the National Trail starting at the Buena Vista lookout, looping at Hidden Valley through boulders and rock tunnels, and returning on National Trail. Interesting, fun hike, with a few large boulders to climb over and slide down. Restrooms are at the park office. No park fee. Driving distance is 60 miles RT. [SCG=5.0/750/2.6]. http://pchikingclub.smugmug.com/Other-4/Fat-Mans-Pass-West
Directions to South Mountain Park (North) Main Entrance
Take I-10 east to I-17 south (exit 143B). Exit I-17 at 7th Ave.
Turn right on 7th Ave to Baseline. Turn left on Baseline to Central Ave.
Turn right onto Central Ave. Follow Central into South Mountain Park.
Meet at park office / restrooms. Caravan to trailhead (trailhead is at the Buena Vista Parking area).
