Guided 2 Hour Sunset/Night or Sunrise Hike at Piestewa Peak

Piestewa Peak offers an exhilarating guided hike that allows adventurers to experience the desert landscape at its most captivating. Whether you opt for the sunset/night or sunrise excursion, the two-hour trek promises stunning views and a chance to witness the Sonoran Desert in a state of ethereal transformation. With over 1,000 feet of elevation gain and rocky terrain, this strenuous hike is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level. However, the rewards of this journey go far beyond the physical challenge, as visitors will discover a profound connection with the natural world and an unforgettable sense of wonder.

Key Points

• The guided hike at Piestewa Peak offers both sunset/night and sunrise options, lasting approximately two hours.
• The hike is considered strenuous, suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, and features over 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
• The tour includes water, flashlight, and snacks, and participants are recommended to wear sturdy hiking footwear and bring additional supplies.
• The meeting and end point is the Piestewa Peak Trailhead, located at 2701 Piestewa Peak Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85016, making it easily accessible.
• The guided hike operates daily from February 1, 2023 to June 27, 2025, with a maximum of 60 travelers per tour and advance reservations recommended.

Overview and Inclusions

This guided hike at Piestewa Peak offers both sunset/night and sunrise options, providing visitors with the chance to experience the stunning natural scenery during different times of day.

The tour includes a bottle of water, a flashlight, and a variety of snacks to sustain hikers throughout the excursion.

Guests will meet at the Piestewa Peak Trailhead and return to the same location after the hike, which lasts approximately two hours.

The experience is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, though it’s considered a strenuous hike.

The tour operates daily from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with the specific start time confirmed in advance with the local provider.

Meeting and End Point

The guided hike at Piestewa Peak always meets at the Piestewa Peak Trailhead, located at 2701 Piestewa Peak Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85016. This is the starting point where hikers will gather and begin their adventure.

At the end of the hike, the group will return to the same trailhead where they started. This ensures that participants can easily find their way back to their vehicles and transportation.

The meeting and end point being the same location makes it a convenient and straightforward experience for everyone involved. Hikers won’t have to worry about navigating to a different location at the conclusion of the guided tour.

Schedule and Operating Hours

Operating hours for the guided hikes at Piestewa Peak run from February 1, 2023 through June 27, 2025, and take place daily from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Participants should confirm the exact start time with the local provider in advance, as scheduling can vary.

The hikes are available on Mondays through Sundays during this operating period, offering both sunset/night and sunrise options for hikers.

With a maximum of 60 travelers per tour, these guided excursions provide a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of Piestewa Peak during the golden hours.

Advance reservations are recommended to secure a spot on the desired hike.

Requirements and Restrictions

Guided hikes at Piestewa Peak aren’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted.

Travelers must be free of any heart problems or other serious medical conditions, and should possess a moderate level of physical fitness, as this is considered a strenuous hike.

The maximum group size is limited to 60 participants.

The meeting point is at the Piestewa Peak Trailhead, located at 2701 Piestewa Peak Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85016, and the hike will return to the same location.

The experience is easily accessible by public transportation.

Participants should expect to encounter a challenging yet rewarding trek during this guided sunset, night, or sunrise adventure at Piestewa Peak.

Difficulty and Fitness Level

This hike is considered strenuous, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness from participants. Travelers should be able to navigate steep, uneven terrain for the duration of the 2-hour guided experience.

The trail features an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet, with some sections requiring scrambling over rocky outcroppings. Hikers should be prepared for a challenging trek, as they’ll be climbing to the top of Piestewa Peak, one of the highest points in the Phoenix area.

While the hike is guided, it’s important for participants to have a certain level of endurance and agility to complete the journey safely and comfortably. Those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions may want to consider a less strenuous activity.

What to Bring and Wear

Proper hiking attire, including sturdy footwear, is essential for the Piestewa Peak guided hike.

Comfortable, breathable layers and sun protection are recommended, as the trail can be exposed and challenging.

Hikers should bring a flashlight or headlamp, as the hike may continue into the evening or start at sunrise.

The tour includes a bottle of water, but hikers are encouraged to pack additional snacks and beverages to fuel their journey.

Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses can also help make the hike more comfortable.

Tour Highlights and Experience

The guided hike at Piestewa Peak offers an unforgettable experience, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape that unfold as participants ascend the trail.

Hikers can choose between a sunset/night or sunrise outing, each promising a unique perspective of the desert environment.

As the sun dips below the horizon or rises in the east, the changing light casts a magical glow over the rugged terrain.

Along the way, hikers will be treated to a variety of trail snacks and a bottle of water, ensuring they stay fueled and hydrated.

The experienced guides provide fascinating insights into the local flora and fauna, enriching the overall adventure.

This strenuous but rewarding hike is a perfect way to take in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert.

Additional Information and Booking

Participants can easily book the guided hike at Piestewa Peak online, with availability displayed for the sunset/night and sunrise options.

Guided hikes run from 4 PM to 9 PM, allowing hikers to catch the stunning light at different times of day. Travelers should confirm the exact start time with the local provider in advance, as schedules may vary.

This strenuous hike isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. The meeting point is the Piestewa Peak Trailhead, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Participants must have a moderate fitness level and can’t have heart problems or other serious medical conditions. The group size is limited to a maximum of 60 travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks for the hike. The activity includes a bottle of water, but additional snacks and beverages may be brought to supplement the provided items.

Is There a Restroom Available at the Trailhead?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available at the Piestewa Peak trailhead. Hikers can use the restrooms before and after their hike. The restrooms are open during the operating hours of the trailhead.

Do I Need to Bring Hiking Poles?

Using hiking poles for this hike is optional. Poles can provide additional stability and support on steep or uneven terrain, but aren’t strictly necessary if you have a moderate level of fitness and experience with hiking.

Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?

Pets are generally allowed on the hike, but they must be on a leash. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider in advance to confirm their pet policy and ensure your dog’s safety on this strenuous hike.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required?

The tour operator does not specify a minimum group size. However, they indicate a maximum of 60 travelers, suggesting the hike can accommodate small groups or individuals. Participants should confirm the start time with the local provider in advance.

Recap

Piestewa Peak’s guided hike offers an unforgettable experience, with stunning views of the Sonoran Desert.

Lasting approximately two hours, the strenuous trail challenges hikers with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain and rocky terrain.

Suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, the tour includes essentials like water, flashlight, and snacks.

Operating daily until June 2025, this guided hike promises a magical encounter with the desert’s changing light.