I arrived at base of Piestewa mountain at about 9:30am. The paved road leading to the trail system was lined with latecomers parked haphazardly along the side of the road. This being my second hike of the day, I took my chances circling an already completely full parking lot hoping for a spot. Could not believe my luck and timing when I scored a premiere spot directly in front of the  trailhead.

Upon exiting my vehicle and looking to the peak in front of me, I could see the pulse of hikers departing and returning on a narrow well defined trail which resembled the activity of foraging ants stocking the colony before winter.

From start to finish, this was hands down the most congested hike I have been on. Of course it being the weekend, a beautiful day along with the later than ideal start played a huge role in this.

That being said, it was a nice trail with friendly people and I was rewarded with great views from the peak.

Highly recommend hiking on a weekday combined with an early start.