An outdoorsy person once asked me what was there to do in Phoenix, a
MUST DO activity, if he had only one day in the beautiful sunny city.
The answer I gave him was this – give Piestewa Peak a big, huge climb.
Not many, even for some of our regular Phoenix charter bus rental customers, know that Piestewa Peak was once known as Squaw Park which is a part of the stunning Phoenix Mountains Reserve. Soaring above te city skyline at two-thousand-and-sixty feet, you will be rewarded for your effort with gorgeous view. The sound of mountain animals might scare you a little especially if you climb the peak early in the morning for sunrise, but worry not, those animals do not initiate attack unless they felt that they were in harm. Climb in peace and you will come down in one piece.
Regular hikers might feel that the two-thousand feet isn't anything to be in awe about but it is a great workout nonetheless.
One of the things that you do not have to be afraid about climbing Piestewa Peak is that you will never be alone. Phoenix locals are regular hikers and because of the wonderful weather all year round, you can find hikers there any time of the day. No worries about getting lost too.
According to stats, it is one of the most climbed mountains in Phoenix, recording traffic to the tune of 10,000 people per week! That is good traffic, we can tell you that. Bikers, cyclists and pet-lovers, however, are not permitted up the mountain. It is for your safety as the terrain is not pet and vehicle friendly.
There are, basically, two trails you can choose from. There is Summit Trail and Circumference Trail to choose from. It depends on how challenged you want to feel. With the Summit Trail, you will be contending with 1.2 miles worth of rocky climb to the top. Feel out of breath and need a quick break? No worries, for both trails, there are many stops along the way. At these stops, there is chance to pull out the handy camera and start snapping away.
Circumference Trail is a little tougher than Summit Trail as it is more than twice longer than the latter. Kids and pets are allowed on this trail. Although longer than Summit Trail, it is a less strenuous but equally scenic walk to the top.
This is something even our Phoenix charter bus rental customers love doing whenever they are in Phoenix, so, give it a shot. Just bring along good walking shoes, towel, lots of water and sunblock.