Pinnacle Peak Park

The basics

Pinnacle Peak Park may be a tiny blip on the map, but it’s a spot loved by locals. For that reason, it comes with a surprising amount of amenities, including a trailhead visitor center. Out of doors, hikers will be in for a moderate-to-difficult 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) climb, and at the top, the reward is one of the best views in the Phoenix area.

Beyond hiking, off-road tours are a great way to explore Pinnacle Park. They tend to head out in the afternoon—meaning exquisite sunsets are part of the package—and stay a bit further away from the crowds. They’re also suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

Things to know before you go

• Interpretive displays and safety signposts dot the trail.

• Restrooms, drinking fountains, and a sizable parking lot are at the trailhead.

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water. This hike can be a hot one.

• Always stay on the trail as rattlesnakes are common here.

• Those looking to rock climb should contact the park for permitting information.

How to get there

There’s one entrance to Pinnacle Peak Park off Scottsdale’s E Jomax Rd. Parking is free and there are about 90 spaces. If you don’t have your own wheels, get there via bike, taxi, or rideshare. The park does close and the gates lock, so make sure you’re done exploring by sunset.

When to get there

The park is open from roughly dawn to dusk, typically 7am to 7pm; the average hiker takes about 1.5–2 hours on the out-and-back trail. Come on a warm day when it’s not too hot and avoid the biggest crowds by visiting in the morning or evening.

Where to find the best bike trails

Bikes and dogs aren’t allowed on the Pinnacle Peak Trail. That said, bike racks are provided, partly because biking is a great way to arrive here, and partly because there are plenty of biking trails nearby at the Brown's Ranch Trailhead. Dogs on a leash are allowed there, too.