Shaw Butte is a member of the Phoenix Mountain Preserves and lies directly North of North Mountain. Of all of the mountains in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve that I have climbed so far, I think I enjoyed this one the most.
Take the Thunderbird Road exit (#210). Follow Thunderbird Rd. East for about 3 miles until you reach Central Avenue. Once you reach Central Ave. turn right (South) and follow it for about a quarter of a mile until you reach the trailhead parking lot.
October through April is probably the best time of year to climb, due to Summer temperatures exceeding 110 degrees. Beware if hiking in the summer of the monsoons and lightning storms.