Before we even get to the hike, let me just warn you – the parking is awful. Like… if you don’t show up within 30 minutes of the park opening, expect to be circling for a spot for at least 15-20 minutes. And that’s AFTER a massive parking expansion project. Of course, this also assumes you’re doing this hike with the intent of living to see the end of it. The trail is packed almost all day during the winter. If you’re brave enough to go at the crack of dawn in the summer, you’ll have parking spots to spare.
Now that you’ve presumably found a parking spot, you’ll need to navigate yourself to the Piestawa Peak trailhead. Make sure you read the signs at the trailhead, because there are dozens of trails coming off the main parking area, all going on very cool paths but not the peak we’re looking for. You’ll know you have the right trailhead when you’re near some nicer bathrooms, plenty of benches, and a trail that looks like it should have way more switchbacks than it does. That’s your trail.
Another warning – this hike is short, at just 1.2 miles, but the grade is never lower than 12%. That means every 100 feet forward is at least 12 feet up. If you have a fear of stairs, find another hike. You’ll encounter them often and without breaks. After warming yourself up with the stretch visible from the trailhead, you’ll reach a good break area. There are a few benches and large boulders you can rest on if you’d like. From here you’ll see the end goal – the peak. It’s another 1,000 feet up and a mile of hiking ahead.
The good news is that the hike is pretty straight, without any “false summits” to psych you out. The bad news is that the grade will continue to creep up, peaking at over 30%. That’s more than twice as steep as the initial climb from the trailhead. Guess what that means? The stairs are even more intense. About a mile in you’ll find a small section of trail with some mild scrambling. A few metal bars are installed at this point to help you with handholds. After another brief stretch of relatively straightforward hiking, you’ll reach the final stretch of the hike, and the most intimidating stretch of the whole hike.
Don’t let the wall of rocks dissuade you from continuing onward and upward. Hundreds of people do this section every day. If you’re truly freaked out, just wait at the base and watch a few hikers go up and down. With a little coordination you’ll reach the top and see why so many people trek up this mountain every day. A short scramble up a few boulders and you’ll see panoramic views of the entire Valley. Camelback will be to the Southeast, South Mountain to the South, North Mountain to the Northwest, and Mummy Mountain to the East!
Congratulations on accomplishing one of the most iconic hikes in Phoenix. The hike down is a breeze, with many hikers opting to take it as a light trail run. The grade works in your favor on the way down. After such a vigorous hike, I’d suggest a nice brunch or lunch at Luci’s at the Orchard or Adobe Bar & Grill!