Hike #46 - Piestewa Peak Freedom (Circumference) Trail, Phoenix, AZ

November 30, 2013 was a perfect day for a hike with my friends from 24 Hour Fitness, Body Pump Class.  We started the Freedom (Circumference Trail) at 9 a.m.. The first 1/2 mile of this 4 mile loop is a strenuous climb up the first part of the Summit Trail which is the most crowded.  Once we diverted on to the Freedom Trail, there were much less people and the trail flattened out with some occasional gradual climb areas. It was so peaceful, it's hard to believe you are in the middle Arizona's largest metropolitan areas - Phoenix!  The trail is 3.6 miles but we walked there from a home in the area which added at least another mile.  The trail is abundant with Saguaro, ocotillo, prickly pear, cholla, brittle bush etc.  This trail is a great alternative to the overcrowded Summit Trail and I will definitely be doing it again.

 

Hike #45 - Kiwanis Trail, South Mountain Park, Phoenix, AZ

The Kiwanis Trail was built by the Phoenix Kiwanis Club and is one of the most popular trails at South Mountain Park.  Like most trails in the park, you are surrounded by beautiful Saguaros that are only found in the Sonoran Desert as well as a variety of other cacti.  The trail is one mile each way with an elevation gain of 480'.  Kiwanis Trail intersects Telegraph Pass Trail and National Trail. There are 2 rock wall dams built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's. We passed several families with young children as it makes for a great adventure for the entire family.

 

 

 

Hike #44 - Holbert Trail, South Mountain Park, Phoenix, AZ

I have really enjoyed getting familiar with the trails in South Mountain Park in Phoenix this year.  The Holbert Trail is a popular trail and easy to get to with plenty of parking.  Round trip, the trail is 4.7 miles and you can easily add another mile if you take the Dobbins Trail at the intersection near the top to the popular scenic overlook.  I had driven to this spot several times in the past.  This particular Sunday was "Quiet Sunday" so no motorized vehicles were allowed. The elevation gain is approx. 1,100' and it took us approx. 3 hours with a long break at the top to enjoy the view.  There are some amazing petroglyphs along this trail.