USA :: Phoenix :: Piestewa Peak

Sun setting behind metro-Phoenix valley from Piestewa Peak

December 22, 2021

Most metro areas have their version of Vancouver Grouse Grind, and in Phoenix it is Piestewa Peak (and Camelback - if you can actually get to trailhead).  Highest point on Phoenix Mountain Preserve Piestewa attracts record number of urban hikers year-round.  According to hiking guidebook Piestewa Summit Trial is second busiest in Arizona, after Grand Canyon Bright Angel.  There are less busy trails in preserve, but just like you have to do Grouse Grind once, you have to do Piestewa if you are in Phoenix as well.  Proper mindset is important, as there is constant river of urban hikers going up/down, well below sunset.  Views are nice and with little improvisation solitude can be found behind rock outcrops off main trail. 

Trailhead is first parking area past Park gate;  if busy, space can usually be found at picnic areas further up the road - as well as parking area before the gate, which closes daily at 7pm.  Trail is stone staircase most of the way, but there are also some dirt areas as well as sections with sharp rock in trail bed.  At top of first set of switchbacks is signed Freedom trail junction - turn right and continue along the ridge (as seen from parking - see gallery) towards the top. Final bit is more rough and there are couple of sections with handrail.  Twin summits are slightly scrambly;  what makes matter worse is bad crowd infestation.  On my hike I just tagged both summits then scooted down and found sheltered spot to enjoy the sunset in solitude.

Alternative to all this madness is Freedom trail that loops around Piestewa.  You miss aerial views, but you get solitude and classic desert landscapes.  Both can easily be done at the same time.  And of course, just like with most other trips in this part of the world, hike only in the morning or evening in summer heat days.

Gallery