An amazing hike! Start early, bring gloves, lunch/snacks, and water! My friends and I hiked to the peak via the Sunset trail, taking the loop back down the Hunter trail (7.1 mi). The first part of the hike is very easy, just out in the open. Though, once you start climbing you are climbing! The gardening gloves we brought helped us feel more secure, so that we didn't lose our grip. Honestly, the pictures made it look more scary than doing it, but if you are afraid of heights do take caution. The cables felt very secure and I felt safe the whole time. The top is very rewarding! There are a lot of bees though, so I wouldn't recommend hanging out there too long. We ended up having our lunch at on of the campsite benches in the shade at the end of the Hunter trail, which was very nice. The last part of the hike is walking on the road, but we didn't mind it after the steep and rocky decline. The bathrooms in the park are incredibly nice for a state park and there were also water bottle fillers. This was a great hike and the Park is also very well-maintained! read more

See all

I checked out Picacho Peak State Park, not to be confused with Pikachu, on a Saturday afternoon. Located between Phoenix and Tuscon, Picacho was a hike unlike any I've done before. After arriving, you have to pay a $10 entrance fee per person to hike (a bit annoying for a state park but o well). You're given a pamphlet about the park and then it's time for what you came for. We did Hunter's Trail and there was a good amount of parking close to the start of the trail. It's a difficult trail on Alltrails and for good reason. There are parts of the hike where it's so narrow that only one person can go through at the time. There are other parts of the hike where there are steep inclines. And not only that. You'll have to climb using the cables that have been attached to the rock formations. Pro tip: bring gloves. That also means you have to be careful on the way down as you're going down on a decline. Which will be hard on your knees. It's all worth it though, because once you climb the mountain, you'll have breathtaking views of the park. And you'll be so high up that you can see both Tucson and Phoenix in the distance. All in all, if you go at a decent pace, the hike will take you 3-4 hours. There's at least one other trail. And you can also camp in the state park. Last but not least, there's a little museum in the visitor's center. And plenty of facilities. You'll get quite the workout! read more

Such a great State Park! Campsites are well maintained and range from rustic to full hookup. One of the bathrooms was set up with showers and I even spotted a mini library there. We stayed in the quail loop with about 75 other campers. It had plenty of spaces for tents, a nice central area with a huge grill amidst ramada covered picnic tables, and a large firepit in the shadow of Picacho Peak. It was the third year for this gathering, but my first time. read more

See all

A Via Ferrata...in America?! This style of climbing is so rare in the states that even many rock climbers have never, ever heard of it. The idea is that there is gear fixed to the rock that makes ascending easier. Often in the form of steel cables, chains, or even metal grips and foot holds. There are hundreds of such routes in the alps. In the states? Maybe a dozen? Anyway, this is the closest you'll get to experience via ferrata in the states, on public land. For liability reasons, the rare via ferrata that is in the US is usually on private land and requires heavy fees and instruction. (think: Zipline tours) This is mostly a steep hike but there are sporadic sections that require you to use your hands. If you're an experienced rock climber, you'll probably find these sections fun to do without even using the cables. If you've never rock climbed and/or are afraid of heights, you might be death-gripping these cables and shaking but...you can do it, you got this, we believe in you! Summit views are clear and free in 360 degrees. There's a fee to get in, but it is absolutely worth it. State Parks like this are very rare these days, Arizonans are lucky to have it! read more

See all

If you want a hike that offers great, challenging fun, you need to check out Picacho Peak via Hunter Trail. This well-maintained trail is filled with rock climbs, steep descents, and plenty of areas where gripping the chains is the only (safe) way up. Head's up: This hike isn't for anyone who's deathly afraid of heights. You'll be pretty close to the edge in quite a few areas. But you'll have a blast challenging yourself across a few miles and over 2k ft of elevation -- Picacho is similar to Camelback, though you can use more upper body strength due to the vast amount of sturdy rope/chain barriers. Be sure to bring your water, sunscreen, grippiest hiking shoes, and (if desired) some gloves for the climbs. There may be a bit of a wait in one-way areas, but everyone on the trail was so friendly! Just be prepared to give people a shout and ask to take turns as needed. Other pro tips: There's plenty of parking, but the most convenient spots fill up by around 9am on Saturday. Shade is great on the first half of the mountain, so try to get back before midday. Park fee is $7/car for four people + $3 per person after that. Happy trails!! read more

Picacho Peak State Park - Parks Near Me

See all

Up there with one of the hardest hikes I've ever done in my life. The cable sections were a little scary. But the pride and accomplishment I felt.... read more

It was a great morning hike with a buddy. The hike was more technical at the top than expected. It started getting crowded on the way down, so I recommend starting early. The views were amazing as the sunrise rose over the peak. As always, we enjoyed our Turkish Coffee, aka jet fuel at the top! read more

Picacho Peak State Park - Parks Near Me

See all

Park is amazing but the it seems the park is getting greedy with entrance fees. $20 to enter with my wife and I? Crazy. Instead of charging per vehicle, the park charges per individual inside the car. It's not a theme park. Turning nature into a commodity. Sad. read more

The three main trails offer easy, intermediate, and advanced options. March is unmatched with the beautiful view of wildflowers if we get enough winter rain. It's only $7 for the day and you can totally use one of the shaded benches to have a nice lunch with a view. One of my favorite spots to hike. read more

See all

Pictures taken as we drove by in our Corvette, shot from the highway. Rainy day but still beautiful sight to see! read more

See all

Stopped by Picacho State Park when I was driving to Tuscon for Thanksgiving. The Park has some really beautiful trails. I wasn't able to make it to the top of the Hunter Trail (was wearing sneakers and kept sliding - it is really steep the higher you get on this trail), but I did what I could and then hike on some of the less steep trails in the Park. Next year, I'll pack my hiking boots and gloves so that I can make it to the top of the Peak. After hiking several trails, I drove around the park to get a full idea of everything the park offered. It has camping sites and picnic areas. If I lived in Tuscon I'd be at these trails at least once a month followed by picnics below. A great day trip and hiking place. read more

See all

TIP: THE SPRING WILD FLOWERS ARE SET TO BE A GREAT SHOW IN 2023. I STOPPED AND SPOKE WITH A RANGER WHO SAID 2ND WEEK OF FEBRUARY IS WHEN THEY WILL (LIKELY) APPEAR. WORTHY OF ANY PHOTO SHOOT AND A GLORY TO BEHOLD. Also, the Campgrounds have a great view of the face of Picacho Peak and nice facilities. Make a reservation, it's a popular place to camp and hike. Enjoy the comical scampering of the tiny squirrels (they make me laugh with their silly antics and yoga poses on warm rocks), watch for the hawks that nest in the peaks, don't wear colors that attract bees - particularly yellow, if you don't want to bee followed. The staff at the park offices are educated, friendly and welcoming. The hikes range from easy peasy, suitable for elders to kid friendly, to truly challenging (my son and I made it to the Saddle (Hunters Ridge) which was a hard and very physical hike that will leave you sitting in the saddle of the peak. Incredible. If you are going to do that one, must bring thick GLOVES so you can hang on for dear life to the steel cables that are necessary to make the ascent. We love this place. I go up and run up a moderate rated trail (Callaway .7 mile one way) and meditate at the top and run back down. Picacho is so accessible and a respite of calm along I-10. There's even a gift shop, drinks to purchase and nice bathroom. $7 per car for day pass or $75 for Year. Worth every penny. read more

Picacho Peak State Park - Picacho Peak as seen from Red Rock Exit on 1-10. What a great place to hike. - Parks Near Me

See all

Stopped by for a hike with my fiancé and this place definitely delivered!! We did the sunset vista trail and boyyy did we get a workout in. We made it all the way to where it meets the hunter trail and we were so dead that we ended up turning back lol. Overall had a great time and the trails are so clean it's crazy! read more

See all

This is a beautiful gem that's easily accessible from Tucson or Phoenix. This past spring, I planned to take my elderly mother but called ahead to see if the flowers were visible from accessible paths since she uses a cane. The helpful ranger informed me that the road through the park and several pull-offs offered ample views. She was right, which is fantastic news for those who aren't able to navigate the gravel paths. Several pull-offs also have picnic areas with shorter trails that offer various views of Picacho and the surrounding area. After we drove through and took in views from the car, we stopped at several of the picnic tables. My mom enjoyed the breeze and views from there, while I explored some of the trails. We really enjoyed our morning here and will be back again. I'll also come back with my partner in the winter to try Hunter Trail. read more

See all

Challenging but worth it! The gloves were definitely clutch. Easy to purchase at the entrance.

This is the first time I've done this hike and I'm glad I made the drive from Phoenix. This is a perfect time of year to come out here. The hike involves some uphill at the start, a saddle area, then up some steep climbs followed with an amazing view. There are cables to help in the difficult areas. The downhill is technical in areas, but doable being cautious. Based on the reviews, I thought this would be really tough, however, if you've done Half Iron or Humphrey's peak, this is not as trying. I would recommend this hike to anyone looking for an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, great views, and physical challenge. Bring water, good gripping shoes (a must), gloves, friends for safety and help coming down the chute, snacks and a camera. read more

Picacho Peak State Park - A-Mazingggg!!! Beautiful hike. Worth the drive from Phoenix - Parks Near Me

See all

As an University of Arizona alumni, I'm ashamed to say that I never took advantage of this hike ever during my four college years in Tucson. I always drove by, thinking, "I realllllly need to stop by there some time!" Fast forward, some odd years later, after living in Oregon for several years and then returning to Arizona, I finally decided to hike it and have been forever in love with it. Now, instead of being only a half hour drive from me dorm, the drive is just under two hours driving from Peoria, in the NW valley! This hike is rated as Difficult. The peak is 3,374 feet. Most of it is climbing switchbacks. Some areas are steep so there are metal cords and horizontal poles to keep you upright as you make your ascent or descent the rocky terrain. At only 3-ish miles give or take a half mile depending on how much you "play" along your journey, you don't expect to be breathing hard, but you will be within the first 10 minutes. I think that's why I like it as sick as that sounds. I want to jump right into the "meaty" portion of the hike and get that heart working. In my BIASED opinion, when hiking it during January or winter months, provided it's good weather, I think due to the distance, I'd rate it more moderate-hard than straight difficult. However, during the summer, I think the climbing and light scrambling would be pretty strenuous and you'd require a lot of water and a hat for shade. This trail is a playground of sorts and I really enjoy the variety. It's definitely worth the drive out and I'd recommend getting a bite to eat in Tucson since it's nearby. You will encounter people that are afraid of heights, so just make sure that you have plenty of time to take the trail at a leisurely pace! Happy hiking!!! read more

See all

You'll need to pay a daily fee but this difficult to the top is challenging but rewarding. Plan for 3-4 hours and bring gloves, water and a jacket to layer on and off. read more

See all

Wow! What an intense hike this was!! The mountain looks so small and easy from the highway but...it's not lol. My friend and I did the Hunter's trail which is a steady incline leading to a descent around the side of the mountain and then a steep incline to the summit. Along the way are some cables to grip on. There's one section of cables where you go right near the edge which is kinda scary if you're afraid of heights, but there are cables and wires do you don't fall over the edge. Overall the hike was exhilarating and intense. If you're going to hike this, I recommend a good pair of hiking shoes and some gloves to help grip the cables. I didn't have gloves and my hands hurt after from the cables. The views from the top are really nice and worth the strenuous hike. read more

See all

A great place to hike and watch the sunset. I live in the SLC, UT area, I hike the backside of Picacho every February when I go to Casagrande. The peak can be hiked from the front or backside. I prefer the backside, because aside from the saguaros it is desolate for miles. It's nice and quiet. Military helicopters can be seen quite regularly. Also, in the distance can be seen a commercial airline boneyard. I recommend one plans their hike so that when arriving back at the parking lot one catches the unobstructed view of the sunset which is magnificent. read more

See all

This is an amazing, but challenging hike. I would not recommend the top half for children. The views are beautiful! We took about three to fours hours to get up and down with stopping for pictures and a snack at the top. I would recommend bringing gloves. There are a couple spots where you have to scale up using cables. They do charge to enter the park, and offer a military discount for my fellow veterans. There are picnic areas and a playground for day use if you want to skip the hike and just enjoy the scenery. You can also camp here. We have a couple times and woke up to beautiful sunset views. If you have kids and are already in the area stop by the ostrich farm that's at the base. It's really fun. read more

I have reviewed the trails in another Yelp post. All good. My "fav" is Sunset Vista which is rolling up and down the desert with vistas with lots of wildflowers in spring. Some really good day hikes "5"-star. I am adding some flower pics of mid-Feb. read more

See all

Super cool hike and I absolutely loved it! It took us 3 hours in total which was not bad at all. We started at 10:30am and the temperature was 86f' that day, I recommend to start early during the hot months because I felt like my back was burning from the heat on the way hike down. Bring plenty of water, must use sunscreen, good shoes, hat and biker/gym gloves to protect your hands from rough rocks. I also recommend to carpool because the parking is very limited. Happy adventure hiking! read more

See all

"That was such a fun hike!" -Yuko (after it was over and no one was injured) This mountain has been on my radar for years, as hiking tales from my co-worker danced in my head, with promises of steel cables and more steel cables. And yes, I'll have to admit, this tough hike was incredibly fun. Tzarina, Yuko and I took the Hunter trail to the saddle, hiked back down the other side, and then up again to the peak. It felt a little like Flagstaff Extreme a few times. Interesting note... when you're at the top, you can hear the freeway traffic. That's a different experience. There was also a cute little chipmunk. On our way down, I spied a guy sitting, eating a sandwich. I said "Whatcha got there? A sandwich?" He replied "Yep, and I'm just taking it...", and thats when I passed him and couldnt hear what else he was saying. I thought it looked like a chicken sandwich, while Yuko thought it was egg salad. Oh yeah, on the way up, you'll reach the eastward facing side of the mountain, and have to head north. At that point, it really stinks. The boy scout leader said it was bat poop. That sounded plausible, because it smelled like steer fertilizer read more

Picacho Peak State Park - Tzarina, Yuko and I at the top of Pikachu Peak! - Parks Near Me

Very beautiful. A lot of huge cactus. There is a hike up but it's very steep and snakes lol read more

Picacho Peak State Park - Parks Near Me

See all

Hunter Trail is the most fun hike I've done in AZ! That was my thought even before I arrived at the summit. Preparing for the hike, I learned a new word, Via Ferrata. I went to Wikipedia site to learn more about Via Ferrata, and made me nervous. Do I need carabiner, ropes, harness, helmet???? A couple Yeplers hiked the Hunter Trail recently said if I did the flatiron then I should be okay here. That made me feel better, although I was still warned as the toughest hike in AZ outside the flatiron. Since I was prepared for worse in my head, when I arrived at the summit, I said to myself, was that it? It was easier than I anticipated. (Thus being said, I still suffered from muscle ache that evening...) Initial one mile on the Hunter Trail to the saddle was tough. No breaks, just keep going up and up. Trail is not difficult, it just constant ups and ups. Once you reach the saddle, that's where the fun begins! Lots of Via Ferrata throughout, first you trek down, down, and down... Yes I know, you just came up and have to go down again? A little discouraging.... also it means going up again on return trip. From there was so much more fun. I look up, I see very steep rocks with wire, I question myself, really? Then I go up one step at a time, before I know it, was that it? It wasn't too bad at all. I enjoyed Via Feratta so much, it reminded of me of the Flagstaff Extreme. This trail was a combination of the Flagstaff Extreme and Flatiron hike. Balance and rock climbing. Gloves and good hiking boots were definitely the must have. They really helped me a lot. I took 3.0 liter camelbak and consumed about 1/3 of it (it was a cold January morning), I carried two extra bottles in my backpack to make my backpack weigh more than I needed. I had four layers of clothes to adjust my body temperature. I brought my beanie and baseball cap and used both (one at a time, of course). Trail was well marked compared to other hiking trails in AZ. Lots of sign throughout to make sure you stay on the trail. (I missed the sign 3 times but that was when I was engaged in conversation, that's my execuse). It's a state park. $7 entrance fee. If you have a time, stop by at the visitor center as friendly staff will eager to tell you about the park, and they have a clean bathroom. It's not too far from Phoenix at all. I would definitely come back for the fun hike again, and again! read more

See all

Wow! This hike to the peak was awesome. I'm just proud of myself for doing it. If you plan to go to the top, be prepared for a strenuous hike. read more

See all

This hike is no joke. I did plenty of research before hand and somehow didn't believe all of the warnings, but yes, the Hunter trail to the peak definitely lives up to its HARD difficulty rating. Let's just say I had to slip into a long, hot epsom salt bath when I got home. A few tips for anyone considering this quest: - Dogs are allowed, but probably would have difficult climbing the steep and slippery rocks, where there are iron cables placed in for safety (and sometimes your only source of stability from falling off sheer rock cliffs). - You will not have a good time if you're wearing running shoes or sneakers. Please be fitted for proper hiking boots with deep tread to navigate the loose rocks and tiny foot holds. - Gloves are recommended but you could probably get by without them. They will help protect you from sharp rocks, cactus spurs, and chafing from the iron cables. - Go early in the morning to avoid crowds as some parts of the path only allow one person through. Otherwise you will have to wait for other hikers to pass before moving forward. - Bring $7 cash to enter the state park per vehicle, plus $3 more per additional person over 4. - Probably the best time to hike this is in the fall months when temperatures aren't too hot and there isn't any ice on the rocks. - It takes about 2.5 -3 hours for a moderately skilled hiker to complete. This includes about 30 minutes of break time. While the view is not particularly amazing, this is a super fun hike that will leave you with a great sense of accomplishment at the top. Good luck to all who dare to climb Picacho Peak! read more

See all

Whewee now THIS is what I call a hike! Chose this hike with my wife as our New Years Day adventure and it did not disappoint. It's about an hour drive south from us in Chandler, and halfway between Phoenix and Tucson on the I-10. Be warned: do NOT take the first "Picacho" exit going southbound on the 10. I made that mistake and ended up driving down a road that seemingly led to nowhere in search of the visitor center/trailhead, then was told by Siri to turn left when there was no intersection (lol thanks Siri). Instead, take the "Picacho Peak" exit a couple miles further South. Arriving at the entrance/visitor center, we were greeted by friendly park rangers with tips and a trail map. The entrance fee is $7 which is pretty typical for hiking trails/parks in the region. Parking also isn't bad as there are actual lined spots as well as the right side of the road. Now onto the hike. Looks can be super deceiving. I remember first thinking "Oh, this should be easy. I've done Flatiron, Camelback, South Mountain...and they all look more challenging than this." Uh, WRONG. They rate this thing difficult for a reason (I'm talking about the Hunter Trail). The first part of the hike has you going up some slightly steep switchbacks to the saddle. If you only do this part, it's a piece of cake. However, once you get to the saddle, you realize you have to then descend on the other side of the mountain and then climb up again using a series of cables due to the steepness. Tackling all of these cable sets up and down is exhilarating and excruciating all at the same time. I recommend wearing a pair of gloves as they definitely helped me tackle the ascent. Once you get to the top, the 360 view is amazing! On a clear day you could probably see Tucson (there was some haze on NYD probably from all the fireworks and burning). The way down isn't as hard as coming up, but still definitely watch your step and hold those cables with the best grip you've got! Overall, you should be able to complete this hike in about 4-5 hours. read more

See all

Amazing campsites and absolutely beautiful scenery- would totally recommend the Hunter Trail- awesome cable climbing experience. read more

Picacho Peak State Park - View from the hunter trail - Parks Near Me

The volunteer working at the information center was very helpful. She took our entrance fee and talked to us about what to expect on the hike, different trails we could take, and provided a map. We decided to take the Hunter Trail, the shortest trail to the top. Whew! This is one strenuous hike. First, you climb practically all the way up the mountain, then the trail winds back around the mountain and you have to go down practically all the way to the bottom, and then back up to the summit again. The views on the far side of the mountain are definitely worth it though! Everything else around the mountain is flat so you can see for miles and miles and miles. We took lots of photos of the gorgeous scenery. Definitely bring gloves as the other reviews said. Also bring water, bc there is none available at the trailhead. I didn't see any restrooms either, although there might be some. $7 for a car entrance fee. read more

See all

Great place to go out and do stuff like family picnic or the great walking trails, great exercise and wonderful mountain view, special up on top the mountain. I highly recommend it. read more

A nice park to visit. Some breathtaking scenery. The trails could be a little treacherous for older folks like us as there are lots of loose rocks on pathways. I didn't see any path that would be wheelchair accessible. The campground had some wide sites, however only electric hookup is available. There is a dump site though. Trailheads all had a portapotty. Cost is $7 to use park campground charges additional fee read more

See all

It is a nice place to visit and hike. It has a lot of history. However their volunteers could be a little nicer

What a beautiful hike! And one that I can't believe I haven't done until recently. Picacho Peak state partly is well run, clean and the hike is well marked. We only hiked to the saddle, as we didn't prepare for the full hike but if you do plan on doing the film hike to the top definitely take gloves, water and snacks. It's definitely a climb up to the saddle and this time of year it's just gorgeous. Morning is ideal. The spring flowers are in full bloom. It's a busy place so plan for families, kids, dogs, etc. We lucked out and found a parking spot at the the entrance of the trail. Others might have to walk a quarter of a mile to the lower lots from the start of the trail. So just keep that jn mind. $7 for entry to the park. Definitely want to hike the rest of the way to the top soon! read more

This is one of my absolute favorite hikes in Arizona! While I can't say the view is incredible or anything, the experience is just so fun. The hike is so steep they have iron bars and rungs to hold onto. I love a hike with a lot of scrambling and this one is just really tough and enjoyable. Definitely recommend to anyone trying to conquer fun peaks in AZ. read more

I arrived with my dog later in the day so we weren't really able to hike the trails, we did take a quick look at the view from the sunset trail which was nice. It was very very hot, so glad that I brought a case of water with me, there wasn't much shade and my husky wasn't all to good with the heat. It did cool down around 10, but right when the sun came up we just stayed out of the tent. Also beware of rattlesnakes, came across one lingering at the campsite, little scary because of my curious little one, Islamist felt the need to carry her everywhere when at the site. The reason I can't five stars, showers and restrooms weren't open. Maybe I have bad luck with timing but I really wish I could've showered after sleeping in a hot tent all night. Plus side is both the sun sets and sun rises are gorgeous. read more

Picacho Peak State Park - Sunset was nice, but I may have liked the sunrise more. - Parks Near Me

See all

Amazing state park. Scenery is spectacular, and, what a fantastic place to hike. It was 110 degrees when I visited, so no hike for me. But the loop drives and the picturesque landscapes make this a must-see location. read more

Nice camp ground, clean quiet..no sewer or water connection at site, but the restrooms are clean and there is a dump station...2nd time here for a night.. read more

Great hiking and run by some great people. We were a little late coming off the mountain at dusk and found a ranger who was happy to see us returning to our car. They have a nice souvenir shop too! read more