Our Ultimate Hiking Guide for Pinnacle Peak Mountain in Scottsdale
Things To Do | December 1, 2025 | SWSS Staff
Scottsdale and Phoenix are filled with famous mountains and spectacular hiking trails, including Camelback Mountain, with its unmistakable camel-shaped profile, and Tom’s Thumb, an iconic local landmark in North Scottsdale. However, have you ever heard of Pinnacle Peak Trail in Scottsdale?
Pinnacle Peak, a towering mountain at the center of Pinnacle Peak Park, is home to one of the Valley’s best hikes, offering stunning views of North Scottsdale. Compared to many desert trails in Scottsdale and Phoenix, Pinnacle Peak has unique terrain and scenery — making it a must-do hike for locals and visitors alike! Keep reading for all the details and the insider scoop about hiking Pinnacle Peak Trail.
Key Takeaways
- Pinnacle Peak Trail, located in Pinnacle Peak Park, is a scenic 4.1-mile out-and-back trail with a 1,020-foot elevation gain and a moderate difficulty level.
- In addition to hiking, Pinnacle Peak Park is a popular spot for rock climbing, picnicking, stargazing, photography, and other activities, including guided hikes and wildlife programs.
- Hikers should wear shoes with good traction, bring plenty of water, and wear sunscreen to stay well protected from the desert sun on this unshaded trail.
Quick Overview: Pinnacle Peak Trail in Scottsdale
- Length — 4.1 miles
- Elevation Gain — 1,020 feet
- Trail Type — Out and back
- Difficulty Level — Moderate
- Trailhead — Pinnacle Peak Park
- Park Hours — Sunrise to Sunset
What Should You Expect to See on the Pinnacle Peak Trail?
Pinnacle Peak is a popular and well-maintained trail in North Scottsdale managed by the City of Scottsdale. One of the reasons hikers love this trail is that, unlike the dusty, rocky, desert trails in much of Greater Phoenix, Pinnacle Peak Trail is composed of unique granite boulders.
Along the trail, there are rest stops with scenic viewpoints at both the half-mile and one-mile markers. The half-mile marker (Grandview) offers panoramic views of North Scottsdale, including the Troon North Golf Club, one of Scottsdale’s best golf courses. As you continue, you’ll hit the highest point on the trail at 2,889 feet in elevation gain before arriving at Owl’s Rest, the second viewpoint that offers sweeping views of Greater Phoenix. You can even see Camelback Mountain in the distance!
During the hike, you’ll see several cacti and desert plants, including Scottsdale’s famous saguaros. You might also encounter native desert wildlife, including lizards, rabbits, hawks, cactus wrens, and other birds. There are interpretive displays along the trail that explain the park’s desert environment.
What Other Things Can You Do at Pinnacle Peak?
Hiking isn’t the only thing you can do at Pinnacle Peak. Here are some other activites the park offers:
- Rock Climbing — Experienced rock climbers with appropriate gear are permitted in three areas of Pinnacle Peak Park, with a variety of routes available for all skill levels.
- Photography — The early morning hours and “golden hour” before sunset at Pinnacle Peak Park are a photographer’s dream. If you’re planning to bring your professional gear, be sure to read the photography policy and complete a photography permit request form before your visit.
- Picnicking — Pinnacle Peak Park has a shaded ramada with picnic tables underneath, making it one of the best parks for picnicking in Scottsdale. Pack a lunch to enjoy after your hike while admiring the beautiful desert landscape in the background!
- Events & Activites — From guided geology and after-hours full moon hikes to wildlife discovery programs and yoga classes, Pinnacle Peak Park hosts a variety of regular activites and special seasonal events for visitors. See the full events list here.
- Stargazing — Pinnacle Peak Park is one of the best places for stargazing in Scottsdale! On select evenings, join NASA Solar System Ambassador, Mark Johnston, to search for star systems, planets, and other objects in space through a high-end refractor telescope.
What to Wear & Bring to Hike Pinnacle Peak Trail
- Supportive Shoes — This rocky trail can be slippery at times, so wear shoes with good traction — ideally hiking shoes or sturdy tennis shoes — to hike Pinnacle Peak. Trekking poles aren’t necessary, but they can be helpful for hikers who need extra support.
- Water & Snacks — Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated on the trail, and a couple of snacks to stay energized. Remember to pack out what you bring in, and, if you need to refill your bottle before heading onto the trail, there are drinking fountains in the park.
- Sun Protection — There is no shade on Pinnacle Peak Trail, so be sure to come prepared with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the hot desert sun.
Common Questions About Visiting Pinnacle Peak
What’s the best way to get to Pinnacle Peak from Scottsdale?
If you’re staying in Old Town or Central Scottsdale, the best way to reach Pinnacle Peak Park is by taking the Loop 101 to North Pima Road, and then turning east on Happy Valley Road before turning north on Alma School Road.
It should take between 15 and 30 minutes to arrive at Pinnacle Peak Trail, depending on where you’re coming from in Scottsdale.
Is there a parking lot at the trailhead?
Yes, Pinnacle Peak Park has a free, paved parking lot with 90 spaces that fill up quickly, especially on weekends! Street parking is sometimes available in select areas (excluding residential roads) if the lot is full. Restrooms and drinking fountains are available near the parking lot.
There is also a bike rack in the parking lot, as mountain biking is not permitted on the Pinnacle Peak Trail.
When is the best time to hike Pinnacle Peak?
The best time to hike the Pinnacle Peak Trail is in spring, fall, or winter, when temperatures are milder. During spring and fall, dress in layers for cool mornings and warmer afternoons. We do not recommend hiking the Pinnacle Peak Trail in the summer, especially midday. It’s too hot!
Are dogs allowed at Pinnacle Peak Mountain?
Arizona offers several dog-friendly hiking trails, including the popular Gateway Loop Trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale and the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail in Papago Park, but Pinnacle Peak Park does not allow dogs to protect the local wildlife and maintain the park’s cleanliness.
Book a Luxury Trip to Scottsdale and Experience the Gorgeous Views from Pinnacle Peak Mountain
Getting out on the trails is one of the best ways to soak up the stunning desert scenery during a trip to Scottsdale — and Pinnacle Peak is undoubtedly one of the best trails to check off your AZ bucket list! If you’re planning to visit Phoenix or Scottsdale soon, don’t miss the chance to hike this spectacular trail.And, if you’re still looking for somewhere to stay, any of our luxury vacation rentals in North and Central Scottsdale provide the perfect launching point for Scottsdale’s best desert hikes, like Pinnacle Peak, and other iconic Scottsdale attractions, from shopping and museums to dining and nightlife. Book your rental today, and start getting excited for your unforgettable trip to the Valley of the Sun!
