Your Guide to Silent Sundays on South Mountain

Love the idea of conquering South Mountain without dodging distracted drivers or sucking down exhaust fumes? Welcome to Silent Sunday, Phoenix's best-kept secret for a peaceful weekend sweat session.

Every Sunday, Summit Road (the main paved, winding roadway that cuts through South Mountain Park and Preserve) closes to public motor vehicles, turning the mountain's main artery into an exclusive playground for hikers, joggers, cyclists, and anyone who just wants to take a leisurely stroll down the middle of the street without getting yelled at.

Here is how the schedule breaks down so you don't accidentally show up ready to drive to the top:

• The Main Event (4th Sunday of the month): This is the big one. Summit Road is completely closed to public traffic from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Just park at the Activity Complex and enjoy the whole mountain car-free. (Note: City staff, tower workers, and emergency vehicles still have access)
• The Early Bird Special (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th Sundays): Summit Road closes at the 1.0-mile marker from 5 a.m. until 10 a.m. It's a great way to beat the heat, get your miles in, and still access the lower picnic areas and trailheads.

Whether you're training for a marathon or just walking off Saturday night's tacos, Silent Sunday is the ultimate way to experience the desert. Grab your sneakers, leave the car keys behind, and enjoy the quiet!

Best of all... it's free!