Piestewa Peak: Freedom Trail

Park at the last parking area on the left side of the road (you’ll know you reached the right parking lot because it’s a dead-end). There is a large, covered picnic area, near the trailhead, and bathrooms across the way. You should note, that dogs are not allowed on the Summit trail (which you would have driven passed in order to get to the Freedom trailhead), and about 3 and 1/3 miles up the Freedom trail, you MUST turn around, as the two trails will intersect here. You can get a fine if you continue, so be forewarned.

            Here’s an excerpt from the City of Phoenix website:

            The Freedom and nature trails start and traverse together for about 1/2 mile. At the intersection of 302, 304 and 1A, the Freedom trail turns left and follows the same alignment as the Perl Charles #1A trail for slightly more than a mile. The Freedom trail then breaks away from the Perl Charles and follows a series of switchbacks up the northwest side of Piestewa Peak to meet the Summit Trail to Summit Trailhead, then follow the trail on the north side of the ravine back to the trailhead at Apache area parking lot.

 

 

The trail is challenging enough that 3 and 1/3 miles will definitely give you and your dog a good workout. I have seen a few people trail running with their dogs here, and keep in mind, their dogs were off leash. So, be prepared for that.

The nature trail provides a little insight of the flora and fauna that you will encounter on the trail. Morgaine stopped to read a few plaques. 

Once you finishes the nature trail, there are a few benches to take a little respite. Morgaine, took the opportunity for a photo shoot.

 Keep going and the views get better and better

Something about the overcast sky, with the sunlight dancing in between the grey shroud made the experience even more breathtaking.

 

I would rate this trail as moderate to difficult. If you and your dog are in good shape and pace yourselves, it will make for a great day.

*Warning: There is a TON of prickly pear and jumping cholla cactus that often overlap onto the trails. I even had to pick a few jumping cholla spines out of Morgaine’s paw. If you have doggie hiking boots, this would be a great place to use them.*