PHOENIX — The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board has unanimously decided to keep more trails open in South Mountain Park and Preserve during extreme heat warnings issued by the National Weather Service. This decision came on Thursday, following criticism from the hiking community.

In October, the Board expanded the Phoenix Trails and Heat Safety Program, which initially led to closures on all 128 miles of trails during extreme heat alerts. However, following the recent vote, only three trails will be closed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during such conditions.

The trails affected by the closures are:

• Holbert Trail (2.56 miles)
• Mormon Trail (1.35 miles)
• Hau’pal Loop Trail (2.8 miles)

Access to the National Trail from the Pima Canyon Trailhead will also be limited, but the National Trail will remain accessible from other locations within the park. Other trails connected to the Pima Canyon Trailhead will remain open.

These specific trails were selected for closure due to their difficulty, which poses challenges not only for hikers but also for rescue teams. The Board emphasized the importance of safety during extreme heat events.

Rangers will be present to educate hikers about potential closures, and those who ignore the restrictions may face trespassing charges or fines. Kurt Augistine, a local hiker, expressed concern over hiking in extreme heat, highlighting the risk to both hikers and rescue personnel.

It is important to note that this new resolution will not affect Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak, which remain closed to hikers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during extreme heat warnings.