Flat Iron was a very enjoyable and rewarding hike for me. I started at around 8:30 on a weekday and largely had the trail to myself. With very few people on the trail, everyone was very friendly and said hi as our paths crossed. I enjoyed the physical challenge of the steep grades and the mild bouldering that the trail required. Nothing felt dangerous or overly difficult, but the rocks and scrambles provided a bit of challenge and kept the trail interesting. Having done Camelback, Piestewa so far, I would say that Flatiron is the most physically challenging of the three, so it is a good one to leave to the end if you are still developing your fitness. That said, you can take it slowly, look for manageable paths through the more challenging sections and really enjoy the incredible canyon and vistas. There were always places to put your feet and also use your hands to give yourself support and assistance. At the top, you will have a great sense of achievement, and enjoy truly incredible views of the surrounding mountains. At the bottom hiking back to my car, I felt very alive and satisfied with my experience. If you get lucky, you may even cross paths with “Flatiron Jim”, a 91 year old hiker who hikes the trail regularly. Meeting him reminded me of why I make the effort to hike these peaks and to maintain my fitness as a middle aged person and invigorated me for the hike.