Are you a fan of hiking and outdoor activities? If you are and you’re reading this, Mt. Piestewa in Phoenix, Arizona is calling your name!
This stunning mountain stands at a staggering 2,610 feet, making it the second highest point in the Phoenix Mountains.
On April 10th, 2023 at around 9pm, I had the pleasure of taking a hike on this tall beauty. I wore a tank top, leggings, and nike sneakers and all I brought with me was my phone and a water bottle.
Despite google saying it takes 1.5 – 3 hours to hike, it took me around an hour to get to the peak right as the sun was setting. Although it was a challenge I’ve never been met with before, I have absolutely no regrets about trekking this path.
The journey was filled with persistence and ends with satisfaction.
It’s 100% worth it and you need to experience it for yourself.
Here are 4 amazing reasons why you should hike Mt. Piestewa in Phoenix, Arizona.
Physical Health
A great reason to get into hiking is for the physical health advantages associated with it. Even if you don’t finish a whole trail, your body still gains benefits from any exercise you completed.
Not only is your external frame getting a total-body workout, but your internal body is getting fired up too! Your heart gets pumping, your lungs are filled with invigorating oxygen, and your muscles start to feel as powerful as ever.
That “hiker’s high” is something you just have to be there to experience.
The View
The view alone should be the one and only reason to hike this wonderful mountain.
The wide range of vision from the top is absolutely breathtaking. Especially during the sunset. You can see the whole city from above. I couldn’t believe it. It was nothing I’ve ever seen before coming from the flat state of Florida.
There are lots of beautiful sights scattered all across the mountain as you increase elevation.
I don’t even need to say all this. The pictures speak for themselves (and keep in mind, it’s even better in person).
Bragging Rights
To climb to 2,610 feet in the air on the second highest peak in the Phoenix Mountains through a zig zagged trail isn’t something your average person applies themselves to do.
After you do it, you’re no longer your average person. You’re now a cool cat.
You will have your own story to tell and it’s a fun conversation topic to talk about when meeting new people. Humble brag, am I right?
Mental Health
Reaching the top of Mt. Piestewa after all my hard work and dedication was the most rewarding part of my trip in Phoenix, Arizona. With each exhilarating step, I couldn’t wait to attain the summit.
Honest Fact: I’d be lying if I said I didn’t think about quitting once. I didn’t know it at the time, but I was about 10 minutes away from the peak when I almost made the decision to quit. Only one small break was taken, so the rest of the trail was me on go, go, go and it felt never ending.
I didn’t quit though. I pushed myself and kept going.
This hike taught me resilience and to never give up. This same message can go for many other things pertaining to life as well.
That was beneficial for my mental health and it could also help you.
I am very proud of myself for persisting and completing the goal. You’ll be proud of yourself too once you get there.
Conclusion
All in all, Mt. Piestewa is a beauty you just can’t miss out on. Don’t miss out on a hike that includes physical and mental health benefits, an extraordinary view, and something to brag about to all your family and friends.
Now get out there and have some fun!