Pinnacle Peak

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!

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.

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.

Great hike, with beautiful views.

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.

This was a really fun hike—a little wildlife, informative signs posted, clean facilities at the start, picturesque scenery. The only concern is that it is listed as moderate. True enough for the difficulty—a dirt trail with a lot of rock steps but nothing difficult. The challenge is that it is 2 miles in and 2 miles out with the peak in the middle—uphill both ways. The climb is moderate, but the endurance is level is a bit higher to do the whole thing. Still, I would do it again.

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.

I spent a lovely Saturday here hiking and rock climbing!! The parking lot is small and fills up early but we got a spot around 830am. Google navigates the wrong way - it tries to take you through a private neighborhood so be sure to take Alma School Road to get here. There are restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables by the parking lot. We saw a Gila monster while we were hiking!

Great hike lots of nice photo ops. A bit steep for people with knee issues. Very crowded this time of year too

Hike/Run My favorite place to be in the morning. Great Trail and always friendly people on the hill.

Pinnacle Peak is a great "choose your own adventure" hike - you can stop at various points for photos or rest, and either turn back or go to the end of the trail and hike back. There are nice bathroom facilities, a water bottle filler, ample parking, and an info center. The trail has great markers and signage with information on plants and animals you might encounter. Depending on the weather, you'll want to be careful what time you start the hike and bring plenty of water. In April, we were finished hiking by 10am and it was very hot. There is not shade along the trail.

This is a great hike for all levels! I went with my dad and his partner who are both in their 70s. There are stopping points throughout and one of them stopped while the others continued on. It had great views and once you got beyond the highest peak, it was more challenging. We went to the 50th marker and then headed back. Would have loved for it to be a loop instead of an in and out, but it was still a cool hike that was just the right amount of time, about an hour and a half.

Pinnacle Peak is a relatively tough (or medium level if you're the people jogging it daily) near Phoenix. We visited as a large group for sunrise and it was already busy (with those runners...). Starts out easy enough but gets harder and eventually you'll hit a 'strenuous' sign... which they're not lying about. But we finished and if you're reasonably fit it should be doable. There are some spots to sit if you need a break and good views for sunrise. Good parking and facilities (clean bathrooms) at the start. All in all a fun time...and I didn't run into any snakes though I saw tons of snake holes...so keep your eyes open if you're there when it's not busy.

Pinnacle Peak is always a favorite hike of mine to do when I'm in Arizona. It's the perfect easy to moderate hike that's still a great workout and will leave you sweating. The views are absolutely stunning, and there are many lookout points throughout. I really like that Pinnacle Peak has lots of ups and downs and different look out points, instead of just one peak that everyone crowds onto to get the perfect photo. Do keep in mind it's not a loop trail, so once you're done you turn around and hike back to the entrance. Because of this (and it's popularity), it can get pretty congested depending on the time of day. The trailhead is always very well maintained, which is a huge plus! When hiking in the spring, it's filled with gorgeous colors and so much to see. Lots of different kinds of cacti and creatures to check out! Pinnacle Peak holds a special spot in my heart because it's where I got engaged two years ago! Ever since, we make sure to give this gorgeous trail a visit whenever we're back in AZ!

Great hike. Trail well marked with a lot of nature trivia. Could use a port-a-potty at the turnaround. Nice that kids could become junior trail rangers. Best to do that at end of hike, takes only about 10 minutes.

Pinnacle Peak is a great beginners hike. Its about 2 miles each way and took me a little more than 1.5 hours to complete at a slightly more intense than moderate pace. Lots of beautiful views of cliffs, mountains and the northern valley. Lots of cacti and other fauna to check out. I didnt see any animals besides an occasional bird but they do have signs to keep clear of snakes if you see any. The trail is pretty up and down about 1000 ft of elevation RT. Didnt need to use my hands or anything for balance or to climb anything. The only strenuous part is the first 5-10 mins on the way back. Its a lot of uphill all at once. Like climbing a dozen flights of stairs. Tip I got from the locals is the very end is when you get to the gate! Not where the sign is. You gotta touch the gate to say youve done the whole trail!

I was so surprised how beautiful the blossoms were this year. Just a whole field full of desert yellow blooms!

This is a great sunset hike. I'm sure it gets seriously hot during the day and looks like it's well traveled and super popular. We arrived close to 6pm on an afternoon with a storm rolling in but the kind fella at the welcome center gave us a map and said we should keep an eye on the storm and be down before the gates lock. We quickly hiked to the highest point - got some pics and came down. So we did about half of it in about 45-60 mins. It's nice at sunset with shade and low sun and wasn't very crowded. Also, we saw tons of greenery and wildlife. The view is gorgeous and the switchbacks make the incline not so bad. We've done some intense hiking on this week-long trip through Sedona and Scottsdale so this wasn't as bad as the others we recently did but if you're not used to hiking and gaining 1,000 or more feet in elevation quickly, take your time, catch your breath and wear good shoes. The trail is well marked with numbered posts in case of emergency you can tell rangers and emergency workers exactly where to find you. It also has informative little plaques for animals and plants along the beginning of the trail. The park has much more amenities than others. It has a welcome booth, a shaded seating area and nicer bathrooms with full flush toilets. Large parking area and a small shopping center nearby for after hike treats. Maps are available as well - small paper versions you can take in addition to the trailhead map permanent signage. Lovely views of the area and surrounding rocky peaks. Would love to come back and do the entire trail when a thunderstorm isn't right behind us!

The hardest trail for me! I went with coworkers a while back and literally sat in the middle of the rocks to drink water and regain composure. I'm truly out of shape I instantly regretted agreeing to this but was happy once we made it to the top! It was definitely a once in a lifetime walk for me. I'll stick to my 1-2hour hikes locatied on the other side of South Mountain. Parking on site Good luck!

Hmm I'm surprised I haven't reviewed this yet. We went once earlier this year and once last October 2022 and it had been years since I first visited. When I came, I didn't really remember it so it felt like the first time. There is a parking lot with a good amount of spots as well as street parking. I like that they have a small visitor center staffed by a volunteer/park steward. We got a neat sticker from here! There's also information about the different types of wildlife you can see out on the trail. There are also bathrooms and water available, and some tables and a ramada. The hike itself is classified as moderate in difficulty on the City of Scottsdale website. There are quite a few lookout points (Grandview, High Point, and the cute Owl's Rest) which is a nice way to stop and enjoy the scenery. Plentiful signs guiding the way and distance, and mile markers (103 in total). There are even educational signs for the creatures and plants along the way. Once you get to the peak, you have the option of continuing by going downhill until the trail ends at a gate by a street. Total distance is about 4 miles if you reach the gate and turn back. There's a fear-inducing sign that says "Strenous beyond this point" but don't be too put off by that. It's a bit misleading because that's where the trail begins to go downhill, but the "strenous" part is hiking back up (probably obvious to others but thought I'd explain). The sign is not telling people not to go. It's just saying it's going to be hard. (took that from a blog post) Fairly busy hiking spot, a range of individuals, families, runners, and everyone in between. It's a gorgeous park, well-maintained, and a good outdoor activity.

Pinnacle Peak is a great 2-ish hour hike in the Scottsdale area. Parking filled up quickly, but there is a decent among of in/out traffic. As you may have guessed, it's a pretty popular hike, so you will definitely be hiking with or pass many groups of individuals. It's about 4 miles round-trip and took me around 2 hours including stopping for the views which are beautiful! The trail is very well-maintained and I was really impressed!

Great views. Lots of steps. Crowded the day we went. Once past the strenuous sign ahead the crowd cleared:)

I spent most mornings while I was on vacation watching the sun rise on Pinnacle Peak. The Four Seasons has a trail from their property to the front of the parking lot of Pinnacle Peak. This made it especially easy and enjoyable to get to the park. The peak rises to an elevation of 3,169 feet. It's about 4 miles up and back. It is rated as a moderate hike. Loads of people were on it daily but it was never uncomfortably crowded. Everyone was reasonably able to keep a social distance from one another. The trail was well marked and the views were beautiful from start to finish. I didn't see any wild life on the trail but there were plenty of bunnies scooting around the base of the mountain in the early morning.

Stunning views. Easy hike for 1st half of the ascend (looks harder when you see people at higher elevations of the trail). The ascend is gradual and trail is compact dirt not rocky or loose sand like some local trails. 1.75 mile trail (one way). Top Elevation is 2,889'. Agree with others that it is very busy with families during the holidays. What a beautiful way to experience nature with your loved ones. Photo opportunities and views abound. Easy lot parking (90 spaces) or street parking when lot is full. Portapotty for restrooms. A few picnic table with ramada. Such a high coming off this trail.

Great hike, does not need a portapotty at the peak, that would ruin the nature ambiance. it's a moderate hike imo, I'm not sure it's a good choice for younger children since it has lots of steeper steps. it's not very wide and pretty crowded so best to walk single file. if you want to walk as a larger group, earlier would be better. it was very busy when we were leaving. lots of parking.

This was a great moderate hike and the views are nice. I never know what to expect when trying a new hike and this hike was not difficult at all. The trail goes up and down so it balances out. The trail uphill is not difficult and it's nice to just relax and enjoy the hike. There is plenty of parking at the trailhead so that was a plus. The 2 mile hike ends and you can just turn back around. There is an option to leave the trail after the end of the hike and walk through the residential area. There are plenty of signs that mention to not have dogs on the trail. It would be nicer if this place was dog friendly for the people who have dogs. Overall, this was a nice balanced hike and I would definitely try this hike again. There are plenty of signs that show how far you've hiked so that can help you be prepared mentally.

Very easy, kid friendly hike. Parking can be an issue but there is plenty of room for people to park on the street. Restrooms were clean and open. Not too much shade along the trail as is typical in this area.

Absolutely gorgeous! Best if you come in Jan/Feb when it's not to hot. My bestie and I hiked up here and were in love with all the gorgeous homes and how far you can see for at the lookout points. Difficulty wise, this is pretty easy until you get to the part where it says "strenuous ahead". At that point, it's a lot of stairs! One thing I really love is all the mile markers and cactus & plant identification signs. I felt like I was learning whilst hiking. My favorite was the teddy bear cactus, but no hugging those little cuties! ;) Overall, 2 miles, not too difficult, great views and a solid workout. 10/10, would recommend.

Pinnacle Peak is a great easy to medium hike located in North Scottsdale. The trail is a very popular in and out trail, meaning that it is not a loop and that the hiker will need to literally turn around and hike back to the trailhead. The trail is very well maintained thanks to volunteer trail stewards. Be sure to thank these people when you see them on the trailhead. They are always repairing damage caused by humans and the elements, as well as improving the trail. Being a very popular hiking and jogging trail, there are lots of people using the trail. The unfortunate thing is most of the "non-regulars" simply do not understand the trail etiquette, including that the person traveling uphill has the right of way. I hope Pinnacle Peak will put up a silly little sign or a few signs that says something like, for the best experience for yourself and others, follow these 4 simple rules: 1. Know who has the right of way. The person traveling uphill has the right of way - if your head is higher than the other person's you give way and let them pass. 2. Voices Carry - Talk in a very quiet voice to those you're hiking with. 3. Cell phone calls are very distracting to others so please "pull over" to the side of the trail and stop to finish your call. 4. Smell ya later. Perfume and cologne are super nice but not on a trail. Save that for later. The views are incredible, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Overall, Pinnacle Peak is an easy hike and only 1.75 miles in length, so if you are going from end to end, you'll travel approximately 3.5 miles. There is ample parking in the parking lot, as well as an enormous amount of parking available on the street. It's always funny watching the people that are there to hike but still try to park as close as possible to avoid walking No dogs, no bikes, no drones and no motorized vehicles account for a great experience. Horses are still allowed, to the best of my knowledge, so be aware. Horses have the right of way too :D Enjoy!

Breathtaking views around every corner, this is easily my favorite hiking and I use that term loosely (very moderate) trail. I love how over the years my kids have evolved from loving the trail for it's spectacular views to running it for exercise. Bring your camera and take a lot of photos along the way. It takes us 25 minutes to get to the highest point on the trail 2889 FT., there is a small orange sign posted which is a great spot for a photo. From here we usually turn back, but many continue on. As always when hiking be sure to bring water and stay on the trail. There are washrooms at the entrance along with an information centre. This facility has plenty of parking. I also recommend going early in the morning and catching the sunrise from up above! Peace!

My wife and I stopped in at 7:50 pm this past Tuesday in need of a quick dinner. The place was busy but there were still plenty of open tables but we were told they were not taking anymore walk-ins. We walked across the parking lot and had a wonderful dinner and wine at Darcy's Ironically when we finished and were going back to our car Pinnacle Grill still had customers dining.

Love this hike for the gorgeous scenery, friendly hikers along the way, short challenges.

Weather is perfect this time of year, so this hike is worth it. I think in total we did about 4 miles, and it took us just over an hour, at a pretty steady pace. This hike is a great workout, and definitely gets your heart rate up. Some beautiful views along the trail. Golf course views, and amazing huge cactus along the way. I would recommend this hike for most people! They also have a few rest areas along the way that are nice places to stop and catch your breath.

This has to be my most favorite hiking trail of all time in the greater Phoenix area. I've always found something wrong with different trails I've visited, whether they weren't scenic enough, a little too dangerous feeling, a little too challenging or unchallenging, or just really rough and uncomfortable hiking paths (too many jagged rocks). Overall, this path meets everything I want and more. I have to say I loved the 12 days of Christmas along the path on my most recent visit. How cute! I hope they update this year round with different themes. I certainly will continue to come back to find out. The views are lovely and nearly 360 degrees, there is some residential views of golf courses, but the best is the far out views you get of the mountains - it is breathtaking. We didn't see a lot of wildlife, which was fine with me, besides birds of course.

As can probably be guessed by my restaurant reviews, I am not the most in shape. However, it's getting cool and I wanted to start exploring, so my s/o and I drove out to Pinnacle Peak, which after one trip is my new go-to for when friends come to visit. There's lots of easy parking right at the trail head, with a little building where you can ask questions, use the restroom (totally acceptably clean!), and get some water. The path is well-marked, well-maintained, and fairly easy (unless you're a rock climber and go off the trail where it tells you you can; I don't know how easy that part is)--there are lots of areas where the trail is pretty wide, so you can take a breather without affecting other hikers, while also getting some pretty dank views. There are little signs that tell you about the wildlife, and lots of beautiful views for how short the walk is. Don't climb on the rocks though! I missed a sign and got chastised by a park ranger :( Also, don't stay late! There's like a towing fee or something.

We followed Melissa R's review and chose the Pinnacle Peak Trail as our first hike in Arizona. Overall, an excellent hike, with great views throughout and also plenty of signage pointing out all the native plants of the desert with fun facts. There is just a single trail, 1.75 miles to the end, and then 1.75 miles back. Lots of steps combined with some straightaways. Trails were well-maintained but had a few rocky areas. It took us maybe 2 hours round-trip including plenty of rest and photos. Some observations/tips: * Carry at least two bottles of water to keep yourself hydrated. * The trail has two levels of signage to help you gauge progress: Every 0.25-miles from trailhead (0) to the end (1.75). Also, it has these flags marking 1 to about 70. * You'll find all sorts of folks sharing the trail with you: elderly, kids, pregnant women, hardcore joggers/runners, families, folks who look like models, and even a few body-builder types. Kinda makes the hike fun.

Since the weather is perfect this time of year, we've been making a point to get outdoors for some nature hikes. This was my first time on the Pinnacle Peak trail and I really enjoyed it! This hike was a solid workout as there's around 1000ft of elevation gain of the course of the 3.5+ mile hike. The trail had moderately traffic when we arrived at 8:15am but was heavily traffic when we left around 9:45am. Parking was much more scarce when we left compared to when we arrived. I'd recommend getting to the trailhead closer to 8am. Enjoy!

Got here around 4:30 and knew I didn't have much time to get out and back to meet the sunset curfew. The trail is uphill from the beginning until you reach the Pinnacle peak (not actual peak). The views of the Estancia Club golf course and neighborhood are impressive. The other peak blocks some of the sun as it was setting. I almost got to the steep part and there were 2 volunteers that made me turn around to make it back to the parking lot. I could've finish this trail run, but turned back before having a clearer view of the sun setting in the west.

Great views and a hike that pretty much anyone can do. Just don't go when it's hot outside in the summer; it's not worth it. Take plenty of water and your phone to take pictures! Cell service is hit or miss but still take it with you just in case.

This is my absolute favorite hike in the valley. So peaceful and scenic. Great place to take company. I feel it has the best views and you can make it as hard or easy as you want. Easy meaning take it slow and don't go all the way. I have a knack of rolling my ankle so I feel this trail is not so rocky and is nice and smooth for the most part. This is not a loop trail. There's one way in and one way out. I'd suggest not going all the way the first time if you're not used to hiking or exercising. Try going to the saddle and back, which is the middle of the two mountains. That should take about 60 minutes if you're slow like me. If you do the entire thing, plan for 1.5 hours. The trail is compromised of two mountains with differing terrain. The first mountain has a smooth sandy trail with some steps. The second mountain is still a smooth trail but much more rocky. It ends with what feels like 13 flights of stairs that you go down, but have to come back up. It's good for those glutes and cardio. Again, can't beat this scenery, it's just gorgeous. I wear trail shoes. Regular running shoes may be a little slippery. The trail is staffed by volunteers and they are wonderful. If you're walking with two people or more, just stay single file and it gives everybody going both ways enough room.

The majority of the reviews are true: the views are amazing. However, they fail to mention that it can be breathtaking....in more ways than one. We visited two different sites, but this was the money shot. Something about me loves the desert heat. The great outdoors, the feel of the sun's warm rays on your bare skin, the cool breeze on loosely covered parts. This is where one goes to feel grounded, while at the same time on cloud nine. The view from the top and pure sense of accomplishment were reason enough for my luxurious plane ticket. I would love to have this in my backyard but NYC isn't built for a mountain like this (sorry Bear Mountain) Although not a very long or challenging hike, it is definitely perfect for a good experience without training. I had an exquisite time. My host asked my one touristy request and this was it. Boy, was it worth waking up super early after a rough night!! For a gal who loves the water, this place made me add Scottsdale to my list of favorite places. Make sure to get there early (pre- noon) to snag a good parking spot and have ample space to view the sights and climb at your leisure. Life doesn't get better than this. (Definitely worth for viewing the sunset or sunrise. Lovely place for an active date or group outing)

I have done this hike 4 times since visiting Scottsdale. The first time took forever because I had to stop every five minutes to take pictures of the beautiful landscape and I needed some serious training with the vertical. If you start at the trailhead near the visitor center, it's an easy-moderate incline to the highest point. From there, it's super mild and easy until you get to the part that says "strenuous beyond this point." You will drop in elevation from that sign until the end and the climb back up can be pretty challenging if you aren't used to stairs, elevation, or heat. My first time was the beginning of June and all the Saguaros were in bloom. The trail was populated, but not super busy. As a novice hiker, I thought the trail was challenging but lovely. The second time kicked my butt - it was the beginning of July and boy was it HOT! The third time we came earlier in the morning to avoid the heat and luckily there were some clouds to keep the blazing sun at bay. NFL players from all over the country were training here and it was really fun to ask everyone where they were from. The fourth time we walked from a nearby neighborhood and started the trail from the back side; the "strenuous" climb uphill was at the very beginning and I was able to hightail it through the rest of the trail without stopping at all (huge accomplishment for novice hiker!). Though this trail has about the same elevation gain as Tom's Thumb, it feels much easier to me because of the steady, moderate elevation gain. Very few rocks and easy to hike in tennis shoes. The trail is frequented by runners and regulars and you see visitors from all over. There are informational signs throughout the trail that explain the different flora and facts. The trail is maintained really well. After a rainy week, you could see where the water runoff passed through and the sediment had been transported but it didn't hinder my experience or ability to hike the trail at all. There are always super friendly volunteers present to strike up a conversation with or ask questions. I will definitely be returning to Pinnacle Peak!

This place is simple breathtakingly beautiful... You look at the world so differently when you have completed a hike like this. The world seems so big and amazing. Life is worth every breath you take... So inhale....

Beautiful for a hike. Go early, it's packed. Mostly uphill but not too hard. They also have public restrooms near the parking. We loved the views and the ride up to the park is great with all of the amazing homes.

One of my favorite hikes in PHX area! Not too hard but no easy hike! Beautiful views of Scottsdale area!

Had a great time hiking this with some friends. Not a terribly difficult hike. Just a lot of beautiful views. Also, you don't really go to the top. Still a great hike

Owwwwwww. That's how my butt felt when waking up yesterday morning. And I owe the pain to my previous day hike at Pinnacle Peak. I consider myself to be in pretty good shape- i weight train, spin, kickbox, or do something active pretty much everyday. But nothing compares to hiking because it's a great workout, you don't even feel like you're working out (until you wake up with the butt pain the next morning) and mountains excite me after growing up in Florida. Unfortunately, there are no mountains to hike in Chicago so when my hostess with the mostess, Gabi K, suggested we wake up early to hike Pinnacle Peak I was all for it. If I lived in Phoenix I'm guessing you could find me hiking Pinnacle Peak on a weekly basis. The view from the mountains is absolutely breathtaking and it really is the perfect hike...steep enough at times so you get out of breath, but nothing that's going to kill ya. The entire hike took us about 1 1/2 hours although those crrraaazzzzyyy peeps who run the hike are probably done in half that time.

Love this hike! This is an in and out hike with a very well maintained trail. Moderate difficulty with signs warning where trail becomes more strenuous. Multiple placards line the trail detailing facts on local flora and fauna.

It's Saturday morning and I was headed to meet up with some friends for a hike & brew UYE, for the hiking part, Pinnacle Peak was the trail that was picked. GPS can get you lost when looking for this area, but I had a great friend who gave me some excellent directions and got me there, the parking lot is small, so we had to park on the street. This trail is very well taken care of and they have volunteers walking along the trail making sure everyone is doing good, never getting in the way, and even offering to stop and take pictures of you with the amazing views behind you. Now the trail, if you have never hiked before I don't think this a starter trail for you, you make a steady incline for the 1st ¼ mile. It wasn't my 1st time on trial, but that 1st ¼ mile kicked my ass! But then it eases out a bit and before you know it you have reached the 1/2 mile mark, then the next 1/2 mile will kick your ass again as you make your way up to summit, and I was headed to the summit! Like everyone says, this is not a loop around trail; you hike to one end, turn around and hike back out. There plenty of resting/stopping points, even a nice little rest area to take in the beautiful views, and lets be honest if I can make it to the summit so you can! I enjoyed my hike and look forward to going back. Which I will and soon be kicking that trails ass and not it kicking mine haha

Very beautiful place. The trail leads up the mountain with beautiful scenery around it. You walk mainly up but it is not difficult. And then around with a few resting places. Then the trail goes down the other side of the mountain but it's not a loop so you have to walk the whole way back again. It is not long though - about 3 1/2 miles total.

Would you like to feel close to Heaven while still just a couple of miles from King Smoothie? Me, too! That's when I hike Pinnacle Peak! This is, by far, one of my favorite ways to start my day when visiting Scottsdale; I'm always rejuvenated and never let down by this trail. Although there are sections where the steps and overall grade are steep, the trail is well-maintained and not difficult if you allow enough time. It's 1.75 miles one way (not a loop trail) and the whole 3.5 mile glorious trek takes me about 95 minutes with stopping to take pics and sip agua :) Do your lower extremities a favor - hike here soon!

Love this hike. It is a one way (not a loop) so you can manage your time and exertion as much or as little as you like. When you reach the peak you can go further for quite a while without steep slopes but when you get on the other hill things will become more challenging again. Bring water no matter what time of year it is and if it is in the warmer months you will need to bring lots of it. Outside of the landscape views there is a lot going on right near you as well. A good number of plants are described with signs and insect life and animal life are fun to catch if you concentrate to notice them. I have been on the trail several times during different points in the year and have only been to the end once to date. One time during the warmer months I wanted to get there at park open to see the sun rise -- which I did -- however, while I waited for the gate to open there were a few jumpers that started before the ranger got there. They made note of which vehicles did not have people in them and did their best to find the trespassers -- I have no idea what the penalty might be but I suggest not trying to find out! Another point (which I have not taken advantage of) is the people who manage the park (be they rangers or volunteers) seem to be very helpful and knowledgable. Maybe one day I will focus on this fact and learn a lot more about the place I have been exploring at random.

I loved this hike! You can make it whatever you want it to be. Nature Hike? Cool, take our time walking the path and read all of the signs telling you about the local plants. Booty Blast Workout? Run the trail! It's at an incline but isn't rocky and has plenty of steps to fire up your glutes. Scenic Hike? Nature serves as the picture frames with boulders, cactus, scenic rest stops and valleys. Photo opps galore! This hike can be as easy or as difficult as you would like to make it. Few more tid bits of info: -Highest point 2889 feet -I found the most dangerous part is what I call Desert Ice, AKA gravel. I slipped a couple of times on a totally flat easy parts. - it is not a loop -it is very well marked and lets you know how far you have gone along the way -there is a large (free) parking lot but it fills up early -there are bathrooms!

Pinnacle Peak - so much fun! Was surprised by all the ups and downs which made for an interesting hike. Along the trail are plenty of signs about the foliage and illustrations with a story for the little ones that join your hike. Would agree that it was a beautiful hike, great views, and perfectly maintained trails. There are a lot of views of the golf course and of the lavish Scottsdale homes in the area so don't expect this to be a super outland and rustic experience. Took about 80 minutes to finish with a few breaks to admire the views and take some photos. Super busy trail though, even mid-day on a Tuesday. I would avoid it on the weekends if possible. If you're going to listen to music in your headphones, keep the volume low so you can hear trail runners coming up behind you! Bathrooms and info are available at the trailhead.no dogs allowed on the trail.

Great hike not to hard and was able to take kids with me while staying at Four Seasons which is only a mile away.

I love pinnacle peak hike. The beautiful view from the top is worth the trek. My biggest complaint is joggers who all but knock you off the trail (or off side of mountain) passing hikers. I've seen it time and time again and with all the different fitness levels of the folks on the trail it can be dangerous. Otherwise, what a beautiful hike with great views and it gets your heart rate up for a nice cardio workout.