I'm not breaking any new ground by reviewing Piestewa Peak. But for those of you out there who are new to the Phoenix area or are just visiting, well, maybe you haven't heard of Piestewa... My nickname for this hunk of metamorphic rock is "the StairMaster" because I primarily travel the summit trail, and well, it's a big giant natural StairMaster. Every step is is step up. Literally. Your buns will be burning by the time you get to the top. And your prize is the view from the top - a 360 degree uninterrupted view of the Valley. The best part? It's in our backyard. How great is that?! Name another major city the size of Phoenix where you can drive 10 minutes to a trail head... okay, there are probably a few... but that doesn't diminish my appreciation of the fact that I can be on the trail with such a minimal time investment. For those of you who have hiked this route and are turned off by the crowds, I offer you an alternative. Hike at night. In the dark. Yep. You heard me. This is the way to do it. Not only are you guaranteed much more pleasant temperatures, you are also guaranteed a moment of solitude. It is quiet, lovely and largely untraveled during the darker hours. Wait. I didn't just say that. It's dangerous and stupid to hike at night. Don't do it. I'm warning you. Your run the risk of stepping on a rattlesnake, getting bitten by a rabid ringtail or walking of a dangerous precipice and breaking your neck. I hereby disclaim all liability (I had to throw that disclaimer in there, I'm a lawyer). That being said, I enjoy hiking at night. The city lights are spectacular. If you decide to live dangerously, make sure you bring a headlamp, some water, hiking poles, and a friend or two. read more

Too bad I can't bring my dog along- very cool trail. Good workout, lots of people, lots of parking, very central location- super easy to get to. Bring lots of water, and bring your camera or some great shots. read more

Im still in love with this hike!! Definitely went back thinking I was a beast but it didn't take long for the trail to tell me otherwise. It was more like a stair master on crack than a paved out trail.. Went alone this time. I would say it's a safe hike for a solo trecker. Saw a lot of families, solo-ers, duos, etc. Everyone is super friendly and encouraging. Once you make it past all the steep inclines, the view will be nothing short of amazing. Warning: there did seem to be a lot of flies around so maybe bug spray could be recommended..but..could've just been me, who knows. read more

If I did it, you can do it! (Blah, blah, blah) Okay, but really....I'm not one of those cool people that hikes as a hobbie, or ever, but I did manage to make my way to the top of this mountain to behold the magnificent view that everyone boasts about, and I'm damn proud to have survived to Yelp about it. Maaaybe it took me an hour (or two) to finish and maaaybe I took a few breaks in between to soak in the view (i.e. prevent myself from throwing up) but I did it and that's what matters, right? :) In truth it's not that bad, but being the complete opposite of an avid hiker, I don't think I was nearly as hydrated or nourished as I should have been to take on this venture. Luckily I was not alone, and it was fun bantering with the friendly people along the way that appeared to be having the same issue. Granted there were also a fair share of scantily clad, mega in shape passers-by quickly jolting to and fro, and I did get a few hmmm glances from them, but that was only until I learned the rule of the mountain (which by the way, didn't take long) and that was to GET OUT OF THE WAY! Remember that simple notion, throw on some nice grippy shoes and one of those groovy camelbaks that the real hikers are toting around, and be on your way. You'll feel really good about yourself, after. read more

Tooooooo crowded!! That takes all the fun of the place. As a mountain is a nice place to go up without feeling that you will loose your lungs. Going down feels faster than up. Being in regular shape it took us about 50 minutes to go up. A moderate hike and doable by all the family. read more

I have only hiked three times so far and have yet to make it to the top. Most people on the trail are very friendly. There are old, young, black, white, brown, handicap, healthy. It's a real challenge. My friend says her mother can hike all the way to the top in 26 mins. It takes me 2 hours to get back to my car from wherever I stop. I WILL MAKE IT ONE DAY! read more

Wow, what a hike! Like Camelback, Piestewa Peak is a workout! And like Camelback, it is as hard going down as it was going up. The top provides a perfect 360 view of the Valley, but yesterday it was pretty smoggy, so seeing downtown was a tad hard. Even still, a great view. I found Piestewa to be much more peaceful at the top than Camelback...probably because there weren't a ton of people up there when we made it to the top. However, my peaceful thinking at the summit was interrupted by a man who decided this was the best time to make a speech about his best friend...who just happened to be Jesus. We hiked the Summit Trail and while there were definitely a lot of people there since it was gorgeous out yesterday, it didn't feel as crowded as Camelback and there were times where it was just me and my husband. Close to the summit are handrails, which come in handy on the way down. Parking was 100% better than Camelback...plenty of spots and the turnover was pretty quick at the lot at the Summit Trail trailhead. It looked like there were other lots nearby, so parking is not a chore like it is at Camelback. read more

This has been a favorite of mine since college days. It still is a great climb( sorry, Elle T. ) For those wondering if they would like to climb for a date or just a Sunday activity , it is a bit intense and a very long uphill climb. the steps are are big steps you will need to be able to negotiate big spaces. You will or at least I was huffing and puffing like crazy and I hike Thunderbird park every weekend. But I felt like I was dying . It takes about an hour if you are on the constant move. With breaks it's understandably a bit longer. But once you endure you feel like you are on top of the world! It is a blast to sit on top and see literally everything in the Valley. Here are a few tips before going : Take water , lots of water Wear sunscreen , you have little shade Wear sensible shoes , no flip flops , no converse , you need sturdy People on the uphill traditionally have the right of way Don't take the kids there are edges with no railings and you can get hurt Bring a cell phone you or someone else might need help If you have health problems don't go read more

Based on Yelp reviews, I decided on Piestewa Peak as my first hike in Arizona and absolutely loved it! I was looking for cardio with a beautiful view and that is exactly what I got! I went solo on Easter Sunday and was pleased that quite a few fellow hikers joined me on my mission to take on the Summitt. In my experience I found parking to be a breeze. The people were all friendly and the people watching was hilarious. Be sure to bring plenty of water since it really is a trek and if you can fit it, bring your camera-it is worth the extra effort! read more

Summit trail not that bad, way easier than expected. Easy access by bus (slight walk from main road) if you don't have a car. Great view from the top! read more

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I can't wait to do this one again! It's a tough one, but it feels great to get to the top of this bear! I had so much fun coming down this hill, I couldn't help but smile the whole way.. Even though my legs were quite shaky and wobbly.. haha. Only bummer... no dogs :( read more

What a workout I had some out of town guest who are passionate about hiking and wanted to hike Piestewa Peak. I have climbed this peak several times and know just how challenging the hike can be, especially when the it is still in the 90's and in the middle of the day but we decided to give it a shot. Piestewa is a great hike (workout), but worth it for its seneic beauty. Piestewa has a lot of steep, stair-like ups and downs that can be hard on the knees and ankles, so if you are expecting a hike up smooth paved trail, Piestewa may not be the hike for you. If you decide to take the challenge, take water, lots of water and be up for the challenge, and enjoy the view! read more

I love to hike Piestewa (formerly known as Squaw) Peak, obviously not for the solitude - since it's so crowded. It's a rigorous 2.4 (round-trip) mile hike and NOT for beginners. But it is the most fun. It reminds me of our version of the New York street scene - almost egalitarian in a way. You see people of all sizes, ages, ethnicities, physical abilities, socioeconomic levels, families, friends, lovers, first-dates. This is where you see Phoenix's diversity, ladies and gentlemen. It's definitely a wonderful first impression of Phoenix -- from the cross-section of society to the people-watching, and last but not least, the AMAZING breathtaking views, of wildlife (like roadrunners, chipmunks, and lizards), flora and the Valley below. It's been noted as one of the most hiked trail in in the nation. read more

The summit trail is a great moderate-difficulty hike that can be completed by average hikers in about two hours, and much less if you're in particularly good shape (there were a number of people who appeared to run/jog the whole thing). Terrific views of the greater-Phoenix area, and lots of critters running around -- even at mid-day we saw squirrels, chipmunks, and several types of lizards. Be sure to wear plenty of sun screen, and bring at least one full bottle of water per person. It can get quite hot, and there's very little shade on the trail (although there are a several good spots to stop and catch your breath, or just take in the views). Also note that the trail is quite popular. We were there on a Friday, and there was almost always someone in sight ahead or behind us. I imagine the weekends might be a bit over-crowded. read more

Piestewa Peak might be one of my favorite hikes. It is the perfect any day of the week hike but you note that Saturday/Sundays will get packed. Good luck finding parking. Not impossible but can be somewhat challenging for sure. At the peak there will be a lot of people but there is plenty of areas to sit and hang out and take good picture or just enjoy the view. Don't let this hike scare you, there are many of ages making this hike. You can make it a bit more challenging by picking up your paste if you feel that the hiking isn't challenging enough. Hike responsibly, drink water, pick up your trash and share a smile with those that walk by. More importantly, enjoy yourself. read more

I've only ever heard one rattlesnake here. It's only crowded at peak times on weekends. Good view, not great, but good. The wikipedia article has a good but brief overview: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piestewa_Peak read more

What a fantastic park. I wish I had my mountain bike but hiking with non-hikers and a small 5 year old we were very limited in what we could explore. From the couple of bikers and hikers though this place was perfect for a simple kid friendly hike. We did get to see a road runner. read more

This is a nice, steep, 1 mile hike that will give you a great workout. It's pretty rocky, and there's a few benches along the way to the top that you can use to rest. Like other people have mentioned, I would recommend light hiking shoes instead of heavier boots as this terrain is difficult and can wear out your knees and ankles - the extra weight of a heavy shoe doesn't help. Bring some water and try to go early on the weekend or any time during the week to avoid a ton of people. read more

I just hiked the Summit trail and it was incredible. There are definitely some parts that are more challenging than others but overall it's a great workout. Be sure to bring lots of water and snack as there are areas to stop and take in the view read more

Piestewa Peak - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Piestewa Peak is okay if you want a quick cardio work out! What I like about this hike is it's local and easy. If I want to get outside and do something active, I'll choose Piesteway Peak or Camelback. What I don't like about it, is it's heavily populated and not all people have the ability or stamina to hike this local hike, thus if the trail gets narrow, you're stuck behind someone. read more

Excellent place to hike and take in jaw dropping views of Phoenix. The Summit trail didn't seem imposing but the inclines starting midway make you appreciate reaching the trail peak. The trail has several rest areas with benches to allow a slight rest and reprieve along the way. The trail is fairly populated and I got the sense this was one of the more popular places to hike in the Phoenix area. I was in awe after reaching the top and taking in the stunning views; however I was attacked by a gang of bees. Turns out someone left behind a pile of orange peels... read more

Piestewa Peak - An overlook from the Summit trail - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Let me start by saying that I'm by no means an avid hiker, but this wasn't as hard as I expected! Don't get me wrong though, definitely not a hike for just ANYONE, but isn't impossible either. Hiked this mountain a couple years ago and it was my second hike ever, probably shouldn't have been my second honestly, but I made it to the top! Trails were pretty self explanatory, easy to find your way up, took about an hour at average pace, but I kind of got lost on the way back down, might've just been me. I definitely don't suggest tackling this mountain in the summer, worst decision ever! But once you get to the top the views are breathtaking, as being on any mountain top would be, and a sigh of victory to go with it! I wouldn't mind giving this mountain a try again, but definitely when I'm more prepared next time! read more

I don't like this trail because of the terrain. The rocks are jaggedy and sharp, and it's easy to slip because the rocks are loose. I feel like if I fell from a height of 5 feet or more, I probably will be impaled. I'd rather fall on Camelback's Echo Canyon trail's rocks, which are more rounded and smooth if that's any comfort. This trail is known for it's similarity to a stairmaster, because you literally are climbing nature's steps. It's a little boring for me because it's the same thing all the way to the top. With Echo Canyon, you get level differences and terrain change and it just feels more adventurey, if you will. I'm not rating this 2 stars because I ate it on the way down and gave myself eternal scars on my legs ( I was trying to change songs on my ipod and wasn't paying attention like an idiot)... and not because it's a sucky hike - it's not. You get a REALLY good workout and the wind knocked out of you if you've been slacking on your cardio, and great views at the top. But I feel like for those looking for more of a challenge with an extra oomph, head to Camelback. read more

Not for the faint of heart. For more seasoned hikers, this seems to be a pretty popular place. Going on a weekend you'll probably encounter quite a few people going up and down. My advice to the more amateur of us hikers: take your time. I feel that Summit Trail is a "trail" in a very liberal sense of the word. Save a few brief paths, most of the hike up is unpaved. The path is full of rocks that make going up (and back down, to a lesser extent) pretty challenging if you're used to more friendly hikes. You really need to watch your step if you don't want to hurt yourself. The trail goes pretty far up. I stopped a little past halfway. I'll probably come back once I have more experience under my belt and the weather gets cooler. read more

Now this is a hike more my style. It's quick (maybe 30 minutes up), well marked, and there are a lot of people around with cell phones if disaster strikes. I heard it was aptly nicknamed "Nature's Stairclimber." For sure. I'm not sure what's wrong with those people running down it. Perhaps they have an early death wish. I stop, move over, and let the crazies run past. No need to spend more time near them than is absolutely necessary. If I did this every morning, I'd surely have a gymnast's ass. But I'm lazy and will choose to do it from time to time when I feel I need a lift. read more

Somethings just don't change....Costco will always be Price Club to me, and Piestewa Peak will always be Squaw Peak. The Phoenix Mountain Preserves, which is home to Squaw Peak, is an amazing preserve smack in the middle of a metropolis. The well known Summit Trail is heavily traveled and well loved by regulars and visitors alike. It is a strenuous hike and is most challenging near the top. Stair like rocks lead you to the summit - but watch your step and be very careful as there are few handrails. Parking is always a problem, especially on the weekend as everyone wants to get out and enjoy the outdoors. If the first two lots are full, keep going as there are more opportunities to park further north. And what is an extra few minutes of walking when your planning on hiking 2.4 miles roundtrip anyways? Be sure to check out the other trails - like the Circumference Trail that starts at the north parking lot and circles the preserves, linking up with the Summit Trail near the end - giving you the option to continue to the peak. There are parts of this trail that are secluded and make you forget that you are in the middle of Phoenix. Dogs are allowed on almost all the trails except the Summit, so it is great fun for your pup. Just be sure to keep them safe from the cactus and bring plenty of water. I highly recommend this hike and be safe! read more

My first trip up this mountain produced a pretty intense hike. I have no clue how some people run up and down this mountain, but that won't be me ever. Those folks should use the other side of the mountain or something. The trip up never seemed to end, there was always another corner to turn and even when you see those railings way up high, it's still not over. The payoff though is of course worth the effort to get up there. Dramatic views, yada yada, yada. Tradition for me dictates a healthy yell upon reaching the top, so I hope the 9 people lounging on the rocks up there didn't mind. Clearly don't go here on weekends cause the point of hiking at least for me is to get some solitude and away from people. Also, this will always be Squaw Peak, nobody can pronounce the new name. read more

Great place for a quick hike and views of the valley are beautiful. read more

Piestewa Peak - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This is a pretty good hike. I think most reviews cover the summit trail, but I'd actually suggest hiking the circumference trail instead. You still get some excellent city views and I would say the challenge is comparable since it's twice as long and you have two saddles to climb. But more importantly, the circumference trail is less crowded and the trail surface is in so much better shape (except where it overlaps the summit trail). The traffic on the summit trail is so heavy that there's hardly a scratch of soft dirt left on it. For those with vehicles that have low ground clearance, I would suggest finding a friend to ride with or turning around and going elsewhere if you can't get a spot in the first parking lot. It doesn't matter how slow I go or what angle I approach, my car won't clear some of the speed bumps on the park road. read more

First, this hike kicked my ass. I thought getting to the park at 10.00 would be early enough to beat the Saturday crowds, but I was wrong. There were lots of hikers and wanna-be hikers at the park that April morning. Some of us would make it to the top, and well, some of us wouldn't. The hike is like one giant stair-stepper, part natural and part man made. The first half of the hike is defintely more crowded and difficult to climb because of all the people. Once you get passed the mid point, the crowds thin out and the hike becomes more enjoyable, but it's not effortless. The views at the top are pretty good, but what's cool about it is you know you just had your ass kicked by this hike and so did everybody else, but you did it. It took me about 2 hours to go up and down and I'm in pretty good shape (I run about 20-25 miles a week). Take lots of water with you, and take a good pair of hiking shoes if you have them. And take your time. It's not a race to the top. Yeah, it kicked my ass. read more

This trail provides a great workout in a moderate amount of time. Being only 1.2 miles one way, it's short enough that you can do the whole thing in less than 2 hours. It elevates pretty quickly so it gets your heart rate up, and there are just enough benches along the way to use as trail markers and resting points to pace yourself. It's not as difficult a hike as Echo Canyon on Camelback Mountain, but since that trail is currently closed right now, this is the next-to-best thing in the valley. I love this trail, but it is so popular you can almost never find a parking spot without lingering in the area for at least half an hour (yes it's ridiculous, hence the 4 stars). However, there is a way around this...Some of my friends are training for the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim hike this summer, so we tried to incorporate a longer hike in along with the Summit Trail to add in some difficulty. Since the Phoenix Mountain Preserve trails connect to the Squaw Peak parking lots, we would start hiking the Quartz Ridge Trail from 40th and Shea (a MUCH less crowded spot where you can usually find parking), connect to Squaw Peak and do the Summit Trail, and then continue back on the loop Quartz Ridge Trail back to 40th and Shea. This routine will provide training for strength and distance. Just make sure you start at the crack of dawn in the summer...the heat gets to be unbearable even in the early morning! read more

Piestewa Peak - View from the summit - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

There's parking thank goodness. I hiked here for two hours but my friend says it goes on for 13 miles. I wish the view was cooler but going around and finishing the hike will give you a 360 view of phx. read more

Being new to Phoenix, one of the big things that seem to be a must is hiking. My friend comes here so she took me. So far I've been on two trails. Beware to newbies, these are rocky trails so to all you LAers who are used to dirt, think again. If you wear tennis shoes b/c you don;t have hiking shoes like me, bring your not so good tennis shoes. They'll get pretty beaten up eventually by the rocks. The scenery is really pretty. Tip - seeing as how you are hiking to get exercise, consider parking in the neighborhood instead and then walking in. Otherwise, carpool. read more

Drink some water! They don't have mountains like these in the Midwest so when I stole out here for a few days I had to just climb one. For a 20 something fit dude, this hike is moderate with an altitude change. It even requires a bit of a "real" hike at the very top. Don't be fooled at the summit....look across the way and there's another 30 feet to climb to reach the real summit: with a small metal plaque with the name and elevation. Touch it because if you don't it never happened. There are a few spots that are confusing, where you have to sort of climb over some rocks to see the trail wind down again but just pay attention to other hikers and you'll be fine. There's no water up there and in the summer it is frickin hot so bring some water. read more

I wouldn't recommend going during the mid-day heat, which is what my friend and I did, but it is a great exercise hike! It's like a natural stair master, but not so intense that I would recommend against kids going on this hike. The view was ok, but all in all, I think I prefer camelback for the view and work out.. read more

Piestewa Peak - View from the top - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Good hike, great cardio... Parking could be a lot better One downside... Change the name back. This is called Squaw Peak. The fact that the name was changed is ridiculous. read more

This is my favorite place to hike in Phoenix. It offers everything. The summit trail, which is very popular is 1.2 miles up one way. Its not for beginners! There are steep portions along the way but its an excellent trail to train on for long hikes such as Grand Canyon. What is helpful for some is there are four stone benches along the trail which you can stop to catch your breath and continue. The last part is like a natural stone stair stepper!! But once you get to the top, the view is so worth it!! I love this trail!! read more

I'm in town visiting family and wanted to keep my hiking thing going as I've gone the last 7 wks and had to for sure work off those thanksgiving calories. I remembered doing this hike years ago when I lived here with my girlfriend and all I can say is holy stairmaster! It's basically all steps all the way up. It's a short hike from what I'm used to in CA but it's better than nothing. Parking was easy (or we got lucky). Tons of people there though unless it's just busy from the holiday wknd. Amazing view! Unfortunately not dog friendly but I see why. read more

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Loved this hiking trail! We did the 302 trail. This trail (versus Summit) is beginner type trail. There is very little vertical hiking. Rather, this trail allows you to really enjoy the scenery. It is about 3 miles. read more

5 stars for the variety and well kept trails. I recall a previous time when this was called "Squaw Peak" but the new name commemorates the "first nation" female soldier lost in the Iraq war. Most visitors think about he 1.2 mile hike to the top of the summit. While that is a good hike for those with limited time and it is also a great workout, there is much more to be seen in the park. Much more. Once you've done the peak and are looking for more variety and fewer people, explore the rest of this vast park. I suggest you drive to the very North end of the road where it dead ends. Park there and head North along one of two routes, enjoy a nice loop trek West with a big choice of routes and distances. I think the nature trail stops with plant identification are great to help folks understand what they're around. Piestewa Trails wander through a landscape of ocotillos, saguaros, barrel cactus and palo verde trees. Don't forget to bring water. read more