Pinnacle Peak Trail
Location: Pinnacle Peak Park (Scottsdale)
Length: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
If you’re interested in exploring Sonoran desert scenery without wandering far off the beaten path, this hike is for you. The smooth out-and-back trail is challenging enough for a good workout, but it’s easy enough for kids to enjoy. You’ll see giant saguaros and plenty of other desert flora and fauna, and the views are stunning. The trailhead has parking, restrooms and water. Don’t let the “I’m hiking in a neighborhood” feel at the start fool you: it doesn’t take long for this to become a fun escape.
Siphon Draw Trail
Location: Lost Dutchman State Park
Length: 4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
This is a scenic but demanding hike in the Superstition Mountains about 40 miles east of Phoenix. It’s another chance to see this spring’s incredible explosion of native plants and wildflowers. While you can’t pick the poppies or parry’s penstemon in the park, you can take a selfie with them. This hike also provides a great view of the rock formation known as the Flatiron. You can hike up the Flatiron, but that’s recommended for experienced (and fit) hikers willing to do some rock climbing. If you’re considering that part of the hike, do your research, dress appropriately and download a map because the trail isn’t well marked toward the top.
Dogs are allowed on several of these hikes (Hidden Valley via Mormon Trail, Tom’s Thumb and Siphon Draw Trail). Keep in mind, Phoenix’s leash law applies while you’re on the trail. It’s actually for Fido’s safety as well as for fellow hikers. Rattlesnakes are coming out of hibernation right now, and you don’t want your four-legged friend chasing after them. The snakes are just as afraid of us as we are of them so they tend to hide in tall grasses and shrubs. (Another reason not to pick wildflowers!) Stick to the trails and take a lot of pictures and you’ll have bragging rights when you summit each peak.
Nannette Walker is a gardening and design writer for WikiLawn Phoenix, and has a true passion for growing her own food. She enjoys camping, hiking, and most other outdoor adventure activities.
