The McDowell Mountains are home to some of the best climbing in the Phoenix Basin. Encompassed within the McDowell-Sonoran Preserve, this McDowells are a great place the recreate and escape into nature from the bustle of the metro area. This is also a great place to both begin rock climbing push the grades. With many routes of an approachable nature and convenient access to the city, there’s something for everyone here. Phoenix has some of the warmest temperatures in North America and the McDowells are a perfect option in. the winter months but are also climbable in the spring and fall.