Fantastic! And SO DAMN challenging! Let me be clear: I am a pudgy person, but I am very active and hike often. I have done Camelback, I have done Sandia Peak/La Luz, I have accidentally done 16 miles in one day after being mislead about the scale of a map without a legend. THIS is the most strenuous hike I have ever done. So be aware. The trailhead that goes to Piestewa Peak (formerly Squaw Peak) is just inside the entrance of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve park area. Not the first trailhead and teeny-tiny parking lot....go just over the small hill and there is a much, much bigger parking lot and the actual trailhead. Now, I knew this was going to take me longer to hike than any random 2.5 mile hike (1.2 miles each way, out and back) because it was climbing a dang mountain. But I didn't realize quite how much of a climb! You go up 1400+ feet in elevation across a mile! It is like...a stairmaster, for more than a mile. And then having to come back down. The trail is very clearly marked and easy to follow. It is mostly fairly wide so it isn't too taxing most of the way for passing people, people passing you, or having two directions of traffic. There are a couple spots where it is narrower, but overall it isn't bad. But do yourself several favors, if you aren't from the area/aren't used to desert hiking/don't do a lot of hiking with intense elevation changes: bring a LOT of water. No, more. Bring what you think will be too much. Be aware of your own abilities and limitations. Take rests when you need to. There is no shame in it at all. And if you don't think you can make it, turn back. The climb is STRENUOUS. I assumed my pace would be half my usual hiking pace, thanks to the climb. (This was important as our group only had one car for our visit, and I was dropped off for my hike and set to be picked up when I was done and my dad wanted to know about how long I expected to be.) It was even slower than that! Thankfully, since you are in the middle of a major metropolitan area, there is pretty reliable cell service. So I was able to let my dad know just how much longer I was going to be. This is an exceptionally taxing hike. I think it is possible for most hikers, provided they give themselves enough time, have the right clothing/footwear, have enough water, and don't push themselves too hard too fast. The views are much lovelier from this hike and peak than Camelback, and it seems to be just as busy and popular. Piestewa has more parking and facilities. If you are in to a good, hard hike....a challenge with wonderful views and an undue sense of accomplishment as payoff....conquering this hike is for you! read more

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The new parking lot, bridge, and bathrooms are amazing. They really did a great job updating this and there is more to come! It's a busy park and there is ample parking now! Individual bathrooms, a wash sink, drinking fountains, and aesthetic parking lot and information plaques, it almost looks like the zoo. read more

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Part of the Phoenix Park Preserve this place has trails and climbs for everyone! We did a total of 6 miles of hiking by going around the peak and then the .5 mile climb to the top! It's a strap climb but path is clearly laid out and is like walking steps all the way to the top. The view is amazing and is a fantastic place for sunset! One of my favorite places to hike and climb. read more

Piestewa Peak - Mountain top! - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Did this the morning of July 4th! Three parking lots (1st one before the gate, 2nd where trailhead is, and 3rd past the trailhead after the bridge). Parking is really a toss up, but when I arrived at 6:30am there were waves of people leaving - waited about 10 min for a spot. I'd say it was 50/50 for people wearing masks. Started at 6:52am, took 47 mins up (3-4 stops), 37 min down (no stops) [2.2 mi round trip, 1151 ft elevation]. Well-maintained trail, mostly in the form of rock stairs. Once you reach the handrails, you're getting very close to the top :) There are many peaks you can clamber around at the top, all offering beautiful 360 views of Phoenix. Parking lot area is very nice, has water fountains + bathrooms. Would highly recommend summiting before 8am during the summer because it gets HOT. There are some parts which offer shade, but it does get very hot so make sure to have plenty of water. Hope to be back to do a night hike and see the city lights. read more

Piestewa Peak - 7/4/2020 8am - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

A handful of different trails at various difficulty levels. Bring proper shoes and some water, maybe a few snacks too. These trails are great but some parts the stones can get slippery. There are restrooms at the trailhead and parking. Parking gets full pretty fast so arrive early depending on when you are hiking. Stay hydrated, safe, and fun!! read more

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This trail is great if you enjoy the stair master at your local gym. I don't, and the summit trail up to Piestewa Peak is nothing but climbing for an hour. I really don't enjoy such a hike personally. Also do not even think of trying this between 9am and later afternoon in summer, the heat is brutal and shade is very rare. My highlight of the trail was a rainbow colored cactus:) The parking lot, entrance signage and restrooms are under construction. There's a small parking lot and a lot of people park on the side of the road. This is a busy spot. read more

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This review is for Trail 300 - Summit Trail The views from the top are stunning and its a beautiful trail all the way through. If I was a local, I would be doing this hike all of the time! I did this as a sunset hike and the temperatures were cooling down so it was perfect. This trail is rated as 'Difficult' so please be prepared and know your personal limits. Do not look at the short distance and think it's an easy trail. Its only 1.18 miles each way (~2.4 miles round trip) although it has a high elevation gain of 1,168 feet and its very hot, even at night. The terrain is rocky; some parts of the trail have steps leading to the top and each step is a different height and width, so wear appropriate shoes. This trail is awesome as long as you come prepared! read more

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This is an absolute gem of a hike so close to DTPHX! It has plenty of parking spots and many entry points to the trail. Also, there is a trail for every level, pick and choose. read more

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A great hike but not for the faint of heart. The mountain may look small and the trail may seem short but looks are deceiving. The trail is pretty much up hill the entire time and believe me, you'll feel it the next day. It is a really great workout though. The trails are clearly labeled and they're all pretty highly trafficked so you can see where you're supposed to go pretty easily. Make sure you bring enough water...a 16.9 oz bottle isn't going to cut it. I have an 85oz Camelbak and during the warmer parts of fall and spring I'll go through the entire thing. Make sure you wear cooler clothing too and I'd recommend a hat for when you get to the summit, there's no shade. Make sure you wear sunscreen as well. Good hiking shoes are recommended as some of the rocks are slick, so you'll want shoes with good traction. Overall I'd recommend this hike. It's strenuous but a good way to spend a morning or afternoon. read more

Piestewa Peak - From the summit - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Piestewa Peak is a fabulous local hiking destination... it's a challenging 1.2 miles due to the elevation and many steps you'll take to get to the top, but the view from the top is one of the best you'll find. Piestewa Peak is conveniently located and has a good amount of parking, but it can get a bit crowded. Depending on the time of year you go, I'd suggest starting early to avoid the crazy heat. Note: dogs are not welcome on the main summit trail, nor are hikers with music blaring without headphones. Most people adhere to these rules ;) I don't hike PP as often as I'd like to, but it's definitely a great option that I always enjoy when I do it. Enjoy your hike if you go and don't forget to bring water and take photos of the view from the top! read more

Piestewa Peak - We made it to the top! Such a fabulous hike and great views too. - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

A gorgeous way to get in those 10,000 daily steps- although technically, it was only around 7,000 to make it all the way to the top and back down. I totally recommend timing your hike around sunset (when it's not summer) so you can see the rocks turn a beautiful pinky orange. It's not as isolated as other places I've been around, but the trail to the top is conveniently clear. The steps are very stair-like in most areas, but once you near the very top, it gets super steep. Have both hands free if you expect to make it all the way. I wore hiking boots and I definitely recommend that. A friend in tennis shoes said her feet were definitely going to be blistered tomorrow. There's decent parking for a hike area, but the only bathrooms are port-a-potties. read more

Piestewa Peak - A third of the way up - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

First time EVER going mountain hiking. Easy to get in and out of the parking lot. No tourist BS. You park and start climbing up. I'm 42 and hate tall bridges and my son is 8...I'm in very good shape so cardio was no issue...but saw people sweating and huffing puffing up and down...my son who usually Complains about walking to his buddies houses but had zero complaints as it's a constant adventure. It is tiered for a challenge...wide easy path to start and each "rest stop" with a bench it picks up after...close to the top I felt my scared of heights nerves kick in...but we made it all the way up! Lots of people up and down but I was fine with that as it comforted my nerves...I saw 4 year olds and 84 yea r olds...but it is a challenge for sure. I have no idea what some people were thinking bringing babies...must not go up halfway...the people who jog it are crazy hahaha...one wrong step and bye bye...but this was my sons FAVORITE part of a 4 day stay in Arizona... read more

Piestewa Peak - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Beautiful hike! We did the Summit Trail, that in spite of being "extremely difficult" was very reasonable. My kids (ages 9 and 7) did not have any difficulty walking up. The terrain is uneven, with a lot of loose rock but the trail itself has firm edges (no danger of falling off a cliff). Scenery was beautiful as the elevation gain was rather quick. I think this trail is easier than Camelback. Big parking lot by the trailhead but it was full at 10am on a workday when we got there so we parked in a parking lot before the one by the trailhead and walked extra 5 min. read more

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Beautiful Hike but extremely scary if you are new to this hiking working, especially in AZ! It would make sense that there is a huge sign that say EXTREMELY DANGEROUS, but if you are like me ( hardheaded) that will not stop you. Just ensure you have proper shoes, water, possibly a headlight (if it gets darks), charged phone, and motivation because it will take about 90 minutes to get to the top ( if you are afraid of hikes or just out of shape). The going down part was the most challenging for me, as it was then that I realized I could be facing my doom of slipping. Heck, I think I had a mini panic attack, yes with tears, as I was climbing back down. It guess what, I did it!! And so can you. Just don't be like me, and make sure you bring someone along with you. But if you don't have anyone, then definitely be like me, and enjoy the adventure. read more

Piestewa Peak - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Nature's BEST stairmaster. I am a long-distance runner, but no trails in California or DC could have mentally prepared me for this trail. It is about a mile to the peak and straight elevation all the way up. It felt about 100 stories tall (wiki says 1,200 feet!). Unlike Camelback, the steps are pretty solid. However, the rocks are uneven and jagged while also quite steep. I am a pretty tall woman, but I felt like I was doing lunges most of the time. The experience reminded me how much more I should be doing squats and lunges... If you take note of the above, then you should be better prepared for the trail! The best time to come is perhaps an hour before sunset. That way, you can avoid the desert sun for the most part and partake in the beautiful sunset at the peak. We went 30 minutes before sunset and had to use our phones as flashlights on our way down. Exhilarating, yes - but in a Oh-God-Am-I-Going-To-Die-With-This-Next-Step sort of way. I wish I lived closer by - I imagine hiking this trail just a few times a month would be the best kind of work out for your glutes. read more

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Piestewa/Squaw peak is our favorite hike it's a beautiful view from the top.. both mornings and evenings, the hike itself is not very long (1.2 miles) but it takes a while coz it's rocky and steep (1200 ft elevation) Parking lot is decent.It's not as crazy as Camelback in terms of crowds and difficulty. Even if you don't want to do the summit trail you will enjoy walking around or doing other smaller trails. Definitely a great family activity. Don't forget water and snacks. Cheers! read more

Piestewa Peak - Beautiful day for a Hike - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This is still one of my favorite hikes within the city of Phoenix that I love to frequent when in town. Most of the construction is complete and looks amazing. This hike is not for the weary, still kicks my butt every single time. There are restrooms located at the base and are well maintained. There is also a ton more parking than there normally is here. The views this time were spectacular. The skies were clear, the weather perfect, what more could I ask for. Overall, I highly recommend partaking and getting a good workout in! read more

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Great workout hike and beautiful views of the surrounding area. Got to the top in 30 min. Some People said aloof the trail that they lock the gate olé camelback mountain and you can't get your car out but in actuality some others said you can get in up until 7 pm but after that you can't get in but you can get out until 10 pm. I didn't stay to verify but someone who comes here daily told me that. I did stay til a little after sunset. At camelback, I know they do lock/ ticket and tow. Many people said this to me. read more

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Woohoo! I made the hike up Squaw Peak!! AKA Piestewa. It was a steep incline, (for me) but very manageable! The trail is mostly rock, and is pretty easy to navigate. It was a bit busy when I was there, and everyone was so friendly and considerate on the trail! The hike up is totally worth it!!! Absolutely beautiful view from the top peak! Bring a light backpack, water, and a little snack; bananas, oranges, or a power bar, then sit back and relax on the top of the mountain, before your hike back down! If you're able to go near sunset, it would be a gorgeous view! But make sure you have lighting for the way back down! read more

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Quartz Ridge Trail is spectacular when rainy out There's a steep makeshift trail (I don't see it on the map) west of where 8A & 8B intersect that's worth trekking. Be careful, it's slippery! read more

Piestewa Peak - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Beautiful view! Great hike for beginners up to experts. Family friendly - clean & great photo ops! read more

Piestewa Peak - Boulder - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Piestewa is the perfect early morning workout. The degree of difficulty increases as you get closer to the summit but completing the climb is rewarding in so many ways.The views are outstanding and you simply cannot beat the sense of accomplishment. I always make it a point to climb Piestewa whenever I find myself in Phoenix on business. Easy to find, easy to park and quite safe and well traveled. Solid 5 stars because of everything it has to offer and there is simply no match to commuting with nature. Removing one star because of the fellow hikers who don't wear headphones and impose their choice of music on other hikers, come on people, let's not be rude like that - wear headphones, your music is not that good anyway. read more

Imagine a hike that's not as hard as Camelback, but provides just as good of a view of the Valley. A hike that will leave you feeling accomplished but not exhausted. A hike with more than one parking lot and not too much trouble finding a spot. Ladies and gentleman, imagine no more. Piestewa Peak is your spot! This is my go-to hike from spring to fall as it's close to my office and thus allows for some pretty awesome sunset hikes! I've never had trouble finding parking, but you might have to park out in the front section (before the gate) as inside the gate it does get a little packed at times, nothing like Camelback though. Also, if scrambling isn't your thing, that's fine because Piestewa is your Stairmaster 3000! Just be prepared for some switchbacks. There are also some false peaks to overcome, but once you get to the top, the view is worth it every time! I have probably completed this hike about 100 times and it never gets old. Get out there and enjoy yourself! PS: If hiking really isn't your thing but you still want to see a nice view, there are resting spots along the trail to the summit with benches that you can use as your end point. These spots still provide awesome scenery, just at a lower elevation. read more

Piestewa Peak - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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My favorite ritual. Man, I love this hike. I was in the best shape of my life when I hiked this trail several times a week. Big Sigh. Here is why this trail is awesome: It's gorgeous and rugged nature in the middle of the city. The trial is so clean. They do a good job with this preserve area. Everyone is courteous and friendly; moms, jocks, babies, kids, teens, crossfits, elderly, tourists, and training ROTC muscular extremists make it out on the trail. And kudos to them because this staircase is TOUGH. The view at the top is so great. You see mountains all around you. Urban desert jungle peacefulness. I think the winding buzz of the 51 is actually really relaxing to take in. Bring a banana but be sure to take the peel with you. Don't litter sucker. Here is why this trail might kind of suck: If you aren't used to Phoenix trails you need to understand that they don't put up water fountains on top of gorgeous peaks like this. You need to bring water. Also, if you don't understand Phoenix you need to know that you must drink water. You must. It's damn hot. It also sucks when that 1 person out of a thousand decides to bring their pup. Don't do that. It's not safe. Read the signs, okay?? And watch for desert critters. Oh and parking sucks here. I'm torn on that. Please don't tear into the landscape just to create more parking. And don't allow for more parking because this ever-popular trail will get even bigger. But I have to tell you that parking here is so awful. So bad. Get here early so you can crow around the lot for a spot for at least 15 minutes. The best workout of your life. I love this hike. If you are a beginner hiker please allow yourself 1.5 hours to reach the top. Take lots of breaks along the way. Pace yourself. read more

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It's almost impossible to review an entire park like Piestewa Peak in just one hike so I'll preface this review by saying this only encompasses the 32nd St Trailhead and the #8A Quartz Ridge Trail. Evidently this is my sister's go-to spot for a quick and (relatively) easy hike by her house. Here's a breakdown: Parking- There's a parking lot off N 32nd St & E Lincoln Rd on E Sierra Vista Dr that holds maybe 20-25 cars and fills up pretty quickly according to my sis. She usually just skips it and heads straight for the shopping center across the way. Restroom- There are no restrooms at the 32nd St Trailhead, but there are park restrooms on E Squaw Peak Dr, but I would just ignore those and head for the Starbucks in the aforementioned shopping center--evidently they don't mind since a preponderance of their business seems to be hikers. Trails- The trails themselves are in pretty rough shape and have lots of loose rocks and jagged edges that create a pretty hazardous situation if you're not watching where you're going; they're also really narrow in some spots and are barely wide enough for an adult. Unfortunately you find yourself staring at the ground 90% of the time and kinda lose the fact that you're in a really beautiful area. Scenery- Excellent scenery with lots of different cacti scattered throughout the trail; great views of Downtown Phoenix; and there's even a decent view of Camelback Mountain. Not much shade here, but you're in the Sonoran Desert so bring a hat and some water. Difficulty- On a scale of 1-10 I'd rate this at a 4 for an adult and maybe an 8 for kids. My 3-year-old did most of it on his own and I only had to carry him over a few really rough patches--but he's a more experienced hiker than some adults. There's also the weather here in AZ that could add a +3 to all those numbers but we lucked out and went on a spectacular Spring Day. I really wanted to give this trail a 3-star rating but I had a hard time justifying that in my head because we all had a good time and the views are definitely worth the effort. The 32nd St Trailhead gets a thumbs up from yours truly. read more

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I was already hurting by the time I started up this beast, knowing it was going to be the longest 2.4 miles of the day. I was right. The summit was great, but going down was pure pain. My knees were already shot from the previous three mountains I had hiked that morning. I did get to see a Police/Fire helicopter circle numerous times overhead, and ended up passing its target on the way down. A few hundred yards later, I passed his rescuers coming up with a basket. At that point, I wished for my own set of pallbearers to whisk me down to my waiting vehicle. Total time up and back was 02:11:05. This was my last of four mountains, one Saturday in April. Check out my video of a later hike: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o27LEKc8g6s read more

Piestewa Peak - Dont slip - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I like to hike here as it is not as steep as the Camelback. My daughter was five when she first made it to the top. At that time it took her 60 mins one way but she did it in 40 mins today. This summit course was my fall back plan whenever I couldn't find a parking at the Camelback while I was training. I seemed to find a parking here and most I had to wait was 5 mins. 1.2 miles one way and about 20-25 mins to get to the top gave me the workout I needed. There is no public bathroom near the parking, otherwise, I would hike twice to get the workout I wanted. On sunny clear day, the view from the summit is beautiful. I can see as far as the four peaks mountain. read more

So beautiful! Great climb. Made the mistake of going at mid day though, the dust was horrendous. I'll go back in the morning next time. read more

Piestewa Peak - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

We hiked to the summit of Piestewa Peak on 19 FEB 2018 AD. It was a nice, overcast day and there were some strong winds. It's great exercise and the climb from the saddle to the summit can be very intense. Be sure to wear good hiking boots or sturdy athletic shoes. Be advised that the bathrooms are at the base of the mountain, so you may want to limit coffee and other diuretics while on the trail. You will probably see some very attractive ladies who run the trail for exercise if you hike this trail. We also ran into some, "unicyclists" riding *UP* the trail. (Weird to me - but wow - they can ride a UNICYCLE UP A MOUNTAIN!). When I hike, I like to wear long sleeve shirts so I don't have to wear sunblock or bug dope. I also prefer hiking boots and a large brim hat. Bring some water and a camera! The parking can be VERY TIGHT so you may want to start early in the morning. Also, check the weather forecast and avoid this hike if it's going to be HOT! read more

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

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Holy hike. So... I had friends from out of town who wanted to go for a hike. Being new to Phoenix myself, I decided to troll through Yelp. Checked out camelback and it sounded like a very intense hike so I looked at the second high rated hike which was this one. We had two cars and both vehicles were able to find parking fairly easily. I think I waited about five minutes and was able to get a spot. There appeared to be three different lots. Once we started the hike I guess I realized how out of shape I am and how steep this hike was :) oh boy oh boy. Word of advice, wear good shoes. But I couldn't quit because lil kids were running past me and I people with babies were hiking with little effort. I figured, the top must be worth it. Someone mentioned on Yelp earlier the juice is worth the squeeze. Man were they right. The peak boasts some incredibly breath taking views. Interestingly, the peak was speckled with orange peels people had thrown onto the ground. I wonder why oranges are the choice of snack for hikers versus other fruits. I pondered this fact for quite a bit as I appreciated the views. Going down was sooo much easier. Loved it. At the end of the hike, the whole party commented on how everyone had trembling shaking muscles :) great workout! read more

Piestewa Peak - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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May 2, 2017 - Went early in the morning and got there right at sun up. Glad to get there early becuase on the way down it was already way too hot! The trail was a good climb and I got to view down at the resort I was staying. It was fairly busy, but not that bad. read more

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Wanna go to the second highest peak in Phoenix?? Then this is the spot! However, you need to be fit and in shape..it isn't a walk in the park. Looking for an easy hike?? I took the easy route (orange) at the end of the road (Squaw Peak drive) , Hike #304 is a nice easy hike (loop) with some darn nice views, easy paths, some steps, a bit rocky and uneven but overall an easy to semi-moderate hike. It's about 1.4 miles and took about an hour to do. Parking really isn't fun on the weekend. Don't get trapped in some lots behind cars waiting, or you'll be stuck for a while. I recommend "waiting" for a spot at the end of the road, at Squaw Peak Road as it gives you an opportunity to u-turn freely and spot hikers coming down which gives you an estimate if the wait is worth it. If you have already made it this far, keep waiting...it's worth it! Really! Sunset hikes are stunning as the Arizona skies scream color. Simple rule always forgotten....always bring water!!! read more

Piestewa Peak - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This hike was amazing and also HARD! I lift weights, I run, but I don't go up an incline for 30-45min. This hike had me winded. Lol It was worth the journey to the top. I noticed a lot of different trails that looped around the mountain which was great so maybe if you live there and want to work your way up to the peak then you have that option. When you're almost to the peak it's a steep incline. Step after step to make it to the peak. There's a narrow path between two rocks to get you to the backside and peak of the mountain or you can carefully climb the rocks before the narrow crossing but be careful especially if you're not in the right gear. We got there at 730a on A Wednesday. People, smart people, where getting in their car as they had already hiked up. That's the smart thing to do. We made it back to the car about 10:00 as we stopped for many pics and videos, but it was about 115° after we drove 4mi back to my friends place where we were staying. If you want a challenge then THIS. IS. IT. read more

Stunning views can be found from all angles on this hike!! The hike increases difficulty along the way, but if you pace yourself it is manageable! Be prepared with lots of water and get an early start. read more

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It a nice place to hiking I give it 1000 to all this is a beautiful place to go everything is clean

It was a 4 miles RT hike. It goes up and up for a long time. It was a tough hike but rewarding. The top has rocks and an awesome view. It's definitely worth it. Take your time getting to the top. read more

Duration: 2 hours 54 minutes to do 3.03 miles per my Apple Watch. This includes rest and photo breaks, including while we were at the top because I forgot to pause the timer. Difficulty: Yes. It was hard. This has an elevation gain of 1,200 feet. To put my personal experience in perspective, the most gain I've done in a previous hike was only around 400 feet. The trail itself was clear to follow, and the majority of it was rocky steps. Luckily for me, there was no scary climbing involved, which I've heard Camelback has towards the end. Since the trail is relatively short compared to the elevation gain, you are constantly going up, without significant flat stretches. Hot, pounding sun would make this a million times more unbearable. Going down is easier, but it was pretty tough on my ankles because of the uneven terrain. Remember to give people going up the right of way! Payoff: Since I already saw so many nice views on the way up, the one from the top didn't have as much of a wow factor. It was still beautiful, but it's more of a make it to the top to make it, rather than having something super unique at the end. I believe it would be nice at sunrise or sunset if you could work out the timing. I was disappointed to see orange peels littered around, and suspicious puddles of liquid between some rocks. I get that it's a nice view to enjoy a snack, but leave no trace please! Bathrooms: Porta potties. I didn't use them, but that's all that's available so plan accordingly. Parking: Small lot was full by 9 AM on a Saturday. Overflow parking was on the side of the road, partially up on a dirt slant. Final thoughts: I guess I'm glad I did this hike once in my life. But once is enough. Never again. read more

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One of my favorite places to hike! I love it here. So many different trails with varying difficulty and length. Parking is not too much of a hassle either since there are multiple parking lots available. The summit trail gets busy (sometimes even at night) but it's not too bad. Not a lot of people on the longer trails so if you want to just take in the nature and the view this is your best bet. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes- hiking shoes would be best because the trails are not paved, so it can get pretty rocky and tough. Bring plenty of water plus a flashlight for night hikes. It's very convenient for someone who works till 5pm because the park gates are open till 7pm but the park is actually open till 11pm. Good hiking spot for beginers as well as pros! Enjoy and be safe! read more

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This hike is fun but much more tough than I was expecting it to be! It has a lot of false peaks which is very deceptive to a first timer like myself. There were multiple times where I thought we reached the top only to find out we weren't even close. Though this hike is super short (approx 1.3 miles each way) it's definitely difficult. Steep all the way up and I rolled my ankle near the bottom on the way down because the ground is so rocky and uneven. However, it's still definitely worth the hike for the views at the top. The panorama of the entire city of Phoenix is just beautiful! read more

Piestewa Peak - At the top! - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This trail is amazing. I think the photos speak for itself. This is by far the best hike I have ever done. You have amazing views throughout the entire thing- including the bottom. It is very well kept and does not have spots with loose rock that makes you slip. You can definitely do this hike in your tennis shoes. This hike is moderately challenging and gets very challenging once you are almost to the top. There is an uphill incline through your entire journey to the top. There are a few spots with railing to help you. Do not feel discouraged if you do not go all the way up. The views are incredible no matter how far up you go. It took up probably about 2-2.5 hours to hike up and down. There are also bathrooms onsite and open during COVID. Highly recommend doing this hike! read more

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