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Piestewa Peak: A Phoenix Icon

Hike to the summit of Piestewa Peak for panoramic views of Phoenix and a challenging desert experience. A tribute to Lori Ann Piestewa.

Rising prominently within the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Piestewa Peak offers a challenging yet rewarding hike with stunning panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Named in honor of Lori Ann Piestewa, the first Native American woman to die in combat in the U.S. military, the peak is a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking outdoor recreation and natural beauty.

A brief summary to 2701 Piestewa Peak Dr

  • 2701 Piestewa Peak Dr, Phoenix, Camelback East Village, Arizona, 85016, US

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months, as there is no shade on the Summit Trail.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking lots fill up quickly.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction due to the steep and rocky terrain.
  • Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and take breaks as needed.
  • Dogs are not allowed on the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Phoenix, take Valley Metro bus route 70 towards Glendale. The bus stops at Lincoln Dr & Piestewa Peak Dr, a 33-minute walk from the Piestewa Peak Summit Trailhead. A single ride fare is $2.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), a taxi or ride-share to Piestewa Peak takes approximately 20 minutes and costs between $35-$45. The ride brings you directly to the parking area at the base of the hiking trails.

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Lincoln Drive and Piestewa Peak Drive, proceed north on Piestewa Peak Drive. Follow the road for approximately 1.5 miles to reach the main parking areas and trailheads. Note that there is no pedestrian path, so exercise caution.

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Discover more about 2701 Piestewa Peak Dr

Piestewa Peak, formerly known as Squaw Peak, stands as the second-highest point in the Phoenix Mountains, reaching an elevation of 2,610 feet. Located within the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, the area has been used for mining and grazing. It wasn't until 1959 that it became a city of Phoenix possession. The mountain is named in honor of Army Spc. Lori Ann Piestewa, a Native American woman and the first female soldier killed in action in the Iraq War in 2003. The peak is a popular destination for hikers, offering several trails ranging in difficulty. The most well-known is the Summit Trail, a steep and challenging 1.2-mile climb to the top. The trail gains over 1,200 feet in elevation and rewards hikers with 360-degree views of the surrounding valley. Other trails, like the Freedom Trail and Nature Trail, offer moderate alternatives for exploring the desert landscape. The area's geology is also noteworthy. While the mountain shape formed approximately 14 million years ago, the rocks themselves, primarily schist, are far older, dating back hundreds of millions of years. The flora is typical of the Sonoran Desert, with saguaros, palo verde trees, and other desert vegetation. Whether you're seeking a challenging workout or a peaceful escape into nature, Piestewa Peak offers a unique blend of recreation, history, and natural beauty.

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