Sunnyslope Mountain facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Sunnyslope Mountain
S Mountain
Highest point
Elevation	c. 1,500 ft (460 m)
Geography
Sunnyslope Mountain Location in Arizona
Location	City of Phoenix Maricopa County, Arizona, U.S.
Topo map	USGS Sunnyslope

Sunnyslope Mountain, also known as "S" Mountain, is a well-known hill in the Sunnyslope area of Phoenix, Arizona. It's easy to spot because of a giant, white "S" painted on its southern side. This "S" is about 150 feet tall! On a clear day, you can see it from far away, even up to thirty miles. People flying in airplanes can also see it clearly as they come into Phoenix.

Even though it's part of the larger Phoenix Mountains, Sunnyslope Mountain is most famous for its connection to Sunnyslope High School.

The Famous "S"

The large "S" on Sunnyslope Mountain is a special symbol for Sunnyslope High School. It's a tradition that has been going on for many years.

Keeping the "S" White

Every year, the new students (freshmen) at Sunnyslope High School have an important job. They hike up the mountain together. Their mission is to give the big "S" a fresh coat of white paint. This keeps the "S" looking bright and visible for everyone to see. It's a fun way for new students to connect with their school and its history.

Homecoming Tradition

There's another cool tradition involving the "S" Mountain. At the end of the Homecoming football game, the "S" gets a special glow. Members of the freshmen football team go up the mountain. They light red flares around the edges of the "S". This makes the "S" light up in red, creating a spectacular sight for the whole community.

A Special Change

In June 2004, students decided to do something different with the "S". They changed it into a "J" for a short time. This was done to honor Josh Conard. Josh was a member of the Sunnyslope basketball team who sadly passed away. Changing the "S" to a "J" was a way for the school to remember him.

Seeing the "S"

Sunnyslope Mountain is a very noticeable landmark in northern Phoenix. Even after the school was updated in the 1990s, which partly blocked the view from the football stands, the "S" Mountain remains a key part of the city's skyline. It's one of the most visible human-made features in the northern part of the Valley of the Sun.

Where Does the Name Come From?

The mountain gets its name from the nearby Sunnyslope area of Phoenix. This area is generally found east and south of North Mountain. It is also north of the Arizona Canal. The Sunnyslope district is important enough to be listed on the Phoenix Historic Property Register. This means it has historical value and is protected.

Images for kids

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  Phoenix Historic Property Register marker at the summit trailhead

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  View from the trail

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  Northern skyline, downtown Phoenix in foreground, "S" mountain clearly visible on high resolution.