Pinnacle Peak

I must say Pinnacle Peak is a desert gem that sparkles at dawn. This 4-mile round trip trail offers a perfect blend of challenge and accessibility. Setting out at 7 AM, we were treated to a breathtaking sunrise that painted the Sonoran landscape in hues of gold and amber. The trail’s clever design utilizes the mountain’s contours, providing welcome shade on the return journey. While popular, the well-maintained path and ample parking ensure a smooth experience. Pinnacle Peak delivers a quintessential Arizona hiking experience – a masterclass in balancing natural beauty with thoughtful trail management.

Pinnacle Peak Park is a gem in Scottsdale, offering breathtaking views at every turn. This is easily my favorite trail, though I use the term "hiking" loosely—it’s more of a moderate walk, making it accessible to many. Over the years, I’ve watched my kids evolve from enjoying the trail’s stunning vistas to now running it for exercise, which has been wonderful to witness. If you’re visiting, be sure to bring your camera. You’ll find plenty of photo-worthy spots along the way. It typically takes us about 25 minutes to reach the highest point on the trail, which sits at 2,889 feet. There’s a small orange sign marking this spot, making it a great place to pause and snap a memorable photo. While we usually turn back at this point, many hikers continue on to explore further. A few tips for your visit: as with any hike, remember to bring plenty of water and stay on the trail to preserve the natural environment. There are clean washrooms and an informative visitor center at the entrance, and the park provides ample parking. I highly recommend arriving early to catch the sunrise from the trail—it’s an unforgettable experience that sets a peaceful tone for the rest of the day. Pinnacle Peak Park offers a serene escape and a chance to connect with nature, whether you're seeking exercise, scenic beauty, or both. Cheers to many more visits!

Great place to hike! The trail to the highest point is short, but going all the way down the backside and up again makes it a more strenuous hike.

We loved this hike! Some sections were more strenuous than others. We felt like we had a good challenge balanced with more even terrain. Lots of switchbacks, clearly marked trails, very busy with other hikers. I would do it again but earlier in the morning. Our crew got a late start, about 10:15. Not everyone was a really avid hiker so we took a number of rest breaks because it got hot fast, and took us about 2 1/2 hours to hike the full length of the trail and back. I'd say if you have bad knees or hips, probably a bit too difficult to hike the full trail but you can always go a short distance and then turn around. The Trailhead is a nice oasis to return to, with decent bathroom facilities and drinking fountains, with a water bottle filling station.

We hike Pinnacle peak 4-5 times a wk. It is an absoluetly beautiful area to hike or visit. This post is more of an appreciation of all of the great team of people that work at or on the trails to improve them and keep them in such wonderful shape! Thank you very much

This is my favorite trail to hike in Scottsdale. The trail is well-maintained and has a designated path that is easy to follow. If you go to the end and loop back around it’s about 4 miles roundtrip. There are great stopping points along the way to catch a break and soak in the amazing views. My favorite time to hike this trail, in the summer, is right before sunset. Don’t forget to check the schedule or ask the desk before you start your hike what time the trail closes, as it changes based on sunset and sunrise. They no longer have volunteers making hikers turn around before they close the gates, so be mindful of the time and don’t get stuck with your car behind locked gates. If you think you’ll be on the trail when it closes make sure to park outside of the gates along the roadside so you don't get trapped.

Can get a bit crowded after about mid morning but a great moderate hike. 4mi out and back and about 1000ft elevation change as you go up and down twice. Careful as you go down as footing is not the best at times.

Very civilized trail with very nice people. 10000 feet long with two up and downs then turn around and repeat.