More Hiking Trails Near Sereno Canyon: Pinnacle Peak Trail in Scottsdale Arizona

North Scottsdale is home to some of the most breathtaking and well-maintained trails in Phoenix. Part of what makes Sereno Canyon such a unique Arizona gated community is the abundance of hiking trails in the area. The fall season provides perfect weather for hikers, horseback riders and rock climbers of the valley to get out of the house and hit the trails. Last weekend I hiked Pinnacle Peak Trail located in Pinnacle Peak Park, just a short distance away from Sereno Canyon.

Pinnacle Peak trail is a very family-friendly hike for North Scottsdale residents with boulder formations unlike any other. The trail gets its name from the landmark boulder, Pinnacle Peak, which can be seen from most areas of the trail. It is a moderate hike in terms of difficulty with an elevation gain of approximately 1,300 feet. This trail varies from the traditional mountain trail as the descent begins in the first half and the ascent begins in the last half of the hike. The path is out and back with a distance of 1.75 miles one-way. There are some rest areas along the path that provide brilliant views of the surrounding North Scottsdale neighborhoods and golf courses.

For the more adventurous folks, rock climbing is permitted in three areas of the park. These areas provide a variety of routes and skill levels for experienced climbers. Horseback riding is permitted on the trail as well, however dogs and bikes are not allowed.

One element that separates Pinnacle Peak Park from some other parks around Phoenix is the amenities offered at the park. Along with parking, water fountains, picnic tables and a Ramada, Pinnacle Peak Park offers a visitor center, restrooms and a gift shop. People can pick up informational brochures at the visitor center that correlate with trail signs about the flora, fauna, geology, and cultural history of the area. The park encompasses a total of 150 acres of scenic mountain desert landscape.

Pinnacle Peak Park is minutes away from Sereno Canyon, one of the last gated communities in Arizona to offer estate-sized custom homesites. Each space is designed to optimize its unique natural landscape so that Sereno Canyon residents live in a setting of rare beauty and tranquility.

Tags: arizona gated community, gated communities in arizona, north scottsdale neighborhoods, sereno canyon