Piestewa Peak: Steep Hike to Big Views Near Phoenix
- Stephen Warner
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
There’s something special about a cityscape hike, a trail that rises just enough above the noise to give you a clearer perspective. Piestewa Peak is one of the best examples of that. Located right in the heart of Phoenix, this steep, rocky ascent delivers not only views of the city skyline but also panoramic vistas of the surrounding Sonoran desert, Camelback Mountain, and distant mountain ranges. It’s no wonder this is one of the most popular hikes in the area.
Trail Info
Trailhead Name | Piestewa Summit Trail #300 |
Distance | 2.2 miles / 3.4 km (out and back) |
Estimated time | 1-2 hours |
Elevation gain | 1,200 ft / 365 m |
Highest point | 2,610 ft / 796 m (Piestewa Peak) |
Permits / fees | None |
Parking | Paved lot (can fill up during peak times) |
Toilets? | Yes |
Dog friendly? | No (prohibited) |
Know before you go
This is hike is both steep and shadeless. You’ll be gaining elevation quickly and sweating in the Arizona sun. Plan your hike for early morning (sunrise is fantastic here) or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
This trail is extremely popular especially with locals. Expect company on the trail, especially around sunrise and sunset.
Parking is limited and has set hours. Check the official city website for current info on parking times and trail access.
Other trails nearby
Piestewa sits in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, which offers a web of interconnected trails. You can piece together longer loops or find easier alternatives if you're not in the mood for a steep grind. This overview site provides a great guide to nearby options.
The Trail
The ascent starts immediately — there’s no easing into this one. Much of the trail feels like climbing a giant outdoor StairMaster, with rock steps and switchbacks that just keep going.
There are a few minor flat sections like this one, giving your legs a short break.
But mostly, it’s just up, up, up.
Take advantage of the views along the way to catch your breath.
A nice view of Phoenix sprawled out beautifully below you.
While most of the trail is hikeable without scrambling, the final push to the summit does get more rugged and uneven. Not quite Camelback-level scrambling, but it still requires effort and balance.
Once at the top, take time to explore the summit. There’s no single summit marker as it’s a collection of rocky outcrops, each offering slightly different views.
And if you’re here for sunset like I was you’re in for a treat. Gold and purple hues lighting up the desert and cityscape, long shadows stretching across the valley.
Some were grabbing selfies and others, like me, just soaking it all in.
I stayed long enough to catch the sunset fade into dusk, followed by a glowing moonrise. Not a bad way to wrap up a day in the desert.
SS Reflections
Whenever I visit a new city, the first thing I look up is whether there’s a trail with a view nearby. Unsurprisingly, Piestewa Peak popped up immediately on my radar.
Despite being a short hike, it packed a serious punch. I was definitely sucking wind on the steep ascent, but seeing so many others pushing through was motivating. And getting to the summit just in time for an epic desert sunset made every step worth it. This is absolutely one of the best bang-for-your-buck hikes near any major U.S. city.
Other helpful resources
The official government webpage detailing this recreation area and preserve
