Piestewa Nature Trail and 304 Loop
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Piestewa Nature Trail and 304 Loop
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The Piestewa Nature Trail and 304 Loop is a hike in Phoenix Mountain Preserve that leads you up to the saddle between the peak and her eastern foothills, around one of these foothills, and back. This hike gets away from some of the crowds that come to hike in this area. It’s a gorgeous break in nature that won’t take too long to complete, and it gives you some separation from the city noise without having to leave the city at all. Expect moderate traffic on this hike.
Getting there
The trailhead for the Piestewa Nature Trail and 304 Loop is at the end of E Piestewa Peak Drive.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | October-May |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Loop |
Piestewa Nature Trail and 304 Loop
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Piestewa Nature Trail and 304 Loop Description
The Piestewa Nature Trail and 304 Loop is a lovely hike that travels through the Phoenix Mountain Preserve alongside the eastern base of Piestewa Peak. With great mountain views, tons of impressive saguaros, and just enough separation from the city and its noise, this hike feels like a real break in nature despite being short and within city limits.
As with all hikes in this area, make sure you bring plenty of water with you and turn back when your water is halfway gone. Consider sun protection and start your hike early in the morning or evening to avoid the heat of the afternoon. There is one steeper hill that earns this trail its moderate rating, but otherwise, most of this hike is beginner and kid-friendly.
From the trailhead, take #304 Nature Trail to your right. The trail climbs up towards the saddle between the foothills. There’s a short, rocky climb, but once you’re atop the saddle, it’s smooth sailing for a while. Descend the other side and then cross the wash. Take a left to stay on #304 and then another left back across the wash. Climb the second saddle, which isn’t as steep as the first, and then take a cruisy descent back down to the trailhead.
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