False summits discourage some non-hikers, but I loved the most acclaimed urban peak climb in Phoenix, Arizona.
Vistas from the top are fantastic.
… The Piestewa Peak (formerly Squaw Peak) Summit Trail (elevation gain = 1,190 feet in 1.2 miles) is climbed thousands of times per week by locals and visitors seeking a cardio-vascular workout, great views, or a family outing. However, quite a few hikers do not actually reach the top due to the fact that this trail is more difficult than it looks, especially in the summer when temperatures are well over 100 °F. No water is available on the trail and dehydration is a common and serious problem with hikers who come unprepared. …
The hike itself takes anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes depending on each hiker’s capabilities in fair weather (higher temperatures and sunny conditions may force the hiker to take twice as long). A beginning hiker should allow 60 minutes for a leisurely ascent and 30 for descent. The path is mostly well marked.
… There are a few sections that are technically difficult as they are steep and there are no guard rails.
There are approximately fifteen miles of interconnecting trails in the Preserve, ranging from easy to difficult.
Arizona is one of the best places to hike in North America. In February. 🙂
besthike.com 