Piestewa Peak and Freedom Loop Hike

Piestewa Peak is one of the defining mountains of Phoenix’s skyline, rising 2608ft up to claim the title of the second-tallest mountain in the city. Part of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, the hiking trails on this mountain provide locals and visitors with the chance to challenge themselves in exchange for incredible views of the city and the mountains that surround it.

Piestewa Peak was originally named Vianom Do’ag by the Tohono O’odham tribe. This name meant “Iron Mountain.” When settlers came, they disregarded the existing name and began calling it Squaw Peak, coming from a derogatory term for Native women. Thankfully, the government renamed the mountain in 2003, choosing Piestewa Peak in honor of Lori Ann Piestewa, an Arizona woman who was killed in action while fighting in Iraq that year. She was the first Native American woman to die in combat in the United States Military.

Taiko drummer and Japanese folk artist Ken Koshio often plays drums and the flute atop the mountain in the mornings to honor Lori Ann Piestewa. If you manage to catch one of his sessions, you’ll realize the magic of this mountain.

The two main trails on Piestewa Peak are the Summit Trail and Freedom Trail. This route guide includes both, taking you first up to the summit and then around the mountain on Freedom Trail. Freedom Trail is a worthwhile addition for hikers who feel energetic enough to add it on as it’s often less busy than the main trail and it allows you to view the mountain and its surroundings from all angles.
Expect a strenuous hike. You’ll gain over 1200ft of elevation just on the Summit Trail alone, and then there’s more required on the Freedom Trail. Dogs are not allowed on the trail and it’s not a good fit for kids.

The trail begins from the parking area. Note that the parking closes at 7 PM, but the trail remains open until 11 PM. You can leave between 7 PM and 11 PM, but you can’t enter after 7 PM.
From the trailhead, hike to the junction. Stay left to take the trail to the summit. You’ll soon hit switchbacks, which continue to the next junction, where you’ll stay right. The route steepens as you approach the top, quite strenuous and rocky.

At the top, take in the impressive views of the Valley of the Sun and the mountains in the distance. From here, descend carefully to the junction with the Circumference Trail. Go right here to begin your loop. You’ll descend through a set of steep switchbacks, staying right as the trail levels out.

Most of the gains and losses on this loop are gradual, save for the occasional quick set of switchbacks. Stay right at all junctions. This part of the hike is usually less busy than the Summit Trail.

You’ll return to the trailhead on this route.

Hiking Route Highlights

Phoenix Mountain Preserve

The Piestewa Peak and Freedom Loop hike is part of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, an urban park system that includes the impressive Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, Shaw Butte, Dreamy Draw Mountain, and more. The preserve also encompasses parks and preserves, so it serves to maintain the unique desert mountains and landscapes of Phoenix for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Piestewa Peak harder than Camelback?

Both hikes have similar elevation gain, but the trails up Camelback are longer and a touch more technical, so we’d consider that the more difficult hike.

Can kids hike Piestewa Peak?

Unless your kids are exceptionally active and experienced with hiking, we don’t recommend bringing them on this hike.

Can you drive up Piestewa Peak?

No, there is no vehicle access beyond the trailhead parking lot.