Hiking in Scottsdale, Arizona: Pinnacle Peak

Pinnacle Peak is located 1 mile south of Dynamite Road and Alma School Road and it is open daily 7:00am - 5:30pm. We accidentally stumbled on this trail as we were driving around the area looking for potential places to run. At first, we figured we would try to run the length of the trail. It's only 1.75 miles each way and at first glance it seemed doable. It surely is to the physically fit... it was not doable for us!

Ultimately, we decided to briskly walk the up-hill sections and run down-hill. At times, it would have been dangerous to run down-hill so it is advisable to use caution if you are running the trail for the first time.

About the Trail

Pinnacle Peak is rated as a moderate hike and it has nice, wide lanes. The ground is mostly dirt so it makes for a gentle run or hike. We soon noticed that there going to be a lot of ups and downs - many steep sections that made it difficult for us to run. Having said this, the trail would definitely be pleasant and doable for anyone.

The highest point on this trail is 2,889 feet and the lowest point is 2,366 feet. The trail starts by taking you up the hill and back down - it is not a loop so we had to go back the way we came. If you are going to visit Pinnacle Peak later in the day, keep in mind that the trail closure begins at the west end around 4:30pm.

The trail is very well maintained and offers options for a variety of activities. They have picnic tables, restrooms at the entrance and rest areas/vistas throughout the trail. You may also horseback ride and go rock-climbing. Rock climbing gear is mandatory if you will go off the trails - there are a number of routes and areas open for climbing to accommodate different skills.

Children

Children will also find plenty to do and explore. We took a few minutes to check out the boards posted at the entrance of the park and learned a lot about the wildlife found at Pinnacle Peak. Throughout the year, visitors and staff have spotted rattlesnakes, bobcats and other critters. The fauna is also worth exploring. You'll find many different species of cacti and other plants - nicely labeled for the curious or the enthusiast.

Guided Tours

While we were there we only explored the trail and headed home for lunch. I did learn, however, that there are a couple of guided tours at this park that I wish we had participated in. Tuesday through Sunday, November through April, the park conducts "Interpretive Tours" starting at 10am for two hours. This tour guides you through the areas plant and animal life and also discusses the history of Pinnacle Peak.

In addition to this learning tour, the park offers "Moonlit Walks" and "Astronomy Evenings." Moonlit tours take place monthly around the full moon, November through February when it's a bit cooler. This hike lasts about 1.5 hours and requires advance registration. It sounds like a great opportunity for an active evening. The "astronomy Evenings are offered November through March in the evening. Although there is no hiking involved with this event, there is some star gazing and an opportunity to learn more about the night sky.

Wear your mountain shoes!

On a pleasant day, this trail was the ideal activity both for a nice work-out and a leisurely walk. We were glad we had comfortable sneakers (you may want mountain or hiking shoes) and plenty of water.

Sources: http://scottsdaleaz.gov/parks/pinnacle