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Piestewa Peak Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,928 Google reviews · Running trail in Phoenix, Arizona · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Piestewa Peak Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Park with miles of trails & a scenic 2,608-foot summit which is a popular destination for hikers.
What runners say about Piestewa Peak Park
“The bathrooms were nice and clean, and the trail I took was on the easier side — beautiful views all around!”
“The bathrooms were nice and clean, and the trail I took was on the easier side — beautiful views all around!”
Afternoon Friday - parking was good(weekends are difficult) - hydrate/ it’s a hike! - views are scenic - Rocky but we’ll defined paths -clean -frequently traveled and used for training -didn’t get to see the big 🦎 (darn) -the peak is gorgeous - I didn’t think was extreme like it was marked (even though steep) - stayed…
Great area to hike. The trail was slightly crowded by 9am. However, it was still very enjoyable, and we didn't feel like anyone was on top of us. It's worth going to the very top. The views are incredible. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, the sun is on you most of the hike.
One of the most challenging hikes. It starts moderately but the last 3/4 part is steep. This trail is full of beautiful desert views. There are no rest areas on the way or on the top. It is worth hiking this trail for the view. While hiking down I got pain in both my knees, I think wearing a knee brace would help.
Great hike! I did a lap around the freedom trail(clockwise) then made my way up to Piestewa Peak. Approximately 7 miles, 4 hours and 2300ft elevation gain. Many breaks in-between and at least 30min at the summit. I went on a Sunday and there was someone either in-front or behind me the entire freedom trail.
Trail conditions & character
“The bathrooms were nice and clean, and the trail I took was on the easier side — beautiful views all around!”
“Approximately 7 miles, 4 hours and 2300ft elevation gain.”
“Started on 8A, though took the connector trail that goes along the ridge to the main Piestewa Peak parking lot.”
“The bathrooms were nice and clean, and the trail I took was on the easier side — beautiful views all around!”
“The trail we took was not for the beginner hiker, very rocky and uphill from the start we started at 5am to catch a sunrise and man is it worth it no matter how far up you make it.”
“Stick around a while to see the lights over the city after dark.”
“The various trailheads all have flushing toilets, hand washing sinks, and water fountains, as well at covered pergolas where you can rest.”
Plan your run at Piestewa Peak Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitephoenix.gov
- Phone(602) 261-8318
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Tuesday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Thursday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Friday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Saturday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Sunday | 5 AM–7 PM |
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