Beginning at Dreamy Draw Recreation Area, most choose to run this route clockwise. There are numerous unmarked trails, presumably old mining routes, that cross the trail on the north side of the mountain. Several of these trails provide shortcuts or alternative routes for mountain bikers and horses. The VOAZ Trail in particular is a popular way to shorten this loop. It is also one of very few marked trails you will encounter.

This is a classic desert trail run and is rather well marked. Expect sandy washes, loose rock, jagged shale, and an occasional scramble as you circle the mountain, but beware of several intersecting trails that lead off the route. Weathered saguaro and teddy bear cholla, named for their "fuzzy" appearance, are also abundant. The rocky geology of the Phoenix Mountains also makes this a great run after a little rain.

Short in length, this is a run that cannot be underestimated. In just 1.2 miles, this trail climbs 1,200' to the summit of the Piestewa Peak, where you're welcomed with incredible 360-degree views of the valley below. Phoenix.gov even states that "This summit trail has been a Phoenix favorite for several decades and is internationally recognized among hiking communities."

The Ford Canyon / Goat Camp loop is arguably the most epic trail running loop near Phoenix. Located in the White Tank Mountains, the mountain range earned its name from the "number of depressions or "tanks" in the white granite near the base of the mountains", according to Wikipedia. As you climb up Ford Canyon, you'll encounter many of them. Monsoon season occurs in the warmest months and is when you can typically find these "tanks" full of water.

The Mesquite/Willow Canyon Loop offers a remote and beautiful trail run through the rugged White Tank Mountains. Simply referred to as "White Tanks" among locals, White Tank Mountain Regional Park provides one the best backcountry experiences around the valley. Less than an hour from downtown Phoenix, this quiet, secluded loop is highly sought after by those seeking solitude in the mountains.

White Tank Regional Park is one of the more rugged and wild hiking areas around the valley. With roughly 30 miles of trail in the park, there's something for everyone. In contrast to to the rest of the park, the Black Rock this routes take you on some of the best-kept trails and is an easy run no matter your ability. The Black Rock Loop and Waterfall Trail provide a short run with ancient petroglyphs and a rock waterfall.

Located within the Sonoran Preserve, this moderate 5-mile loop on Ocotillo and Sidewinder is one of the staple running loops in the northern valley. Expect typical desert flora, including a wide array of cacti and occasional wildlife. Though bordered by neighborhoods, the loop offers a rugged and solemn setting with sweeping views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Don't be afraid to wake up early to catch the sun rising over the Superstitions to the east.

South Mountain Park holds the title of largest municipal park in United States, and this is the perfect route to explore its eastern half. Countless intersections and connecting trails make this trail network hard to follow, so stick close to this route to experience some of the best singletrack Phoenix has to offer.

Holding the title as the "Largest Municipal Park in the United States", South Mountain is a trail runners paradise. This is a perfect loop for newer trail runners, or if you're simply short on time. As compared to other trails further up the mountain, most of this route is well groomed and easy to follow. Most of the elevation change is gradual, and the entire loop is very much "runnable".

The Peralta Canyon Trail is one of the best and most popular hikes in the Superstition Mountains. It extends several miles into the heart of the mountain range, aiming for the highly recognizable peak called the Weavers Needle. A great view of the Needle comes at the trail's highpoint, Fremont Saddle. This trail makes for a great hike or a fantastic trail run!