> Home > News Releases > Scottsdale celebrates Pinnacle Peak Park’s first decade

Scottsdale celebrates Pinnacle Peak Park’s first decade

 

  April 18, 2012

  Contact:  Recreation Coordinator John Loleit, 480-312-0991,
  JLoleit@scottsdaleaz.gov 
 

Scottsdale celebrates Pinnacle Peak Park’s first decade
 
Pinnacle Peak Park is hosting a two-day celebration Friday and Saturday to commemorate its 10th anniversary.

Home to one of the Valley’s most prominent landmarks, the 150-acre park is a popular climbing and hiking spot that has hosted more than 2 million visitors since opening at 26802 N. 102nd Way.

Getting here wasn’t easy. Although the scenic peak and its surrounding desert were a focal point of recreation for decades, expanding development and legal issues in the 1990s placed the planned park – and public access -- in limbo.   

Agreements between the city and nearby residents over access and park management were reached in 1999. Construction followed and the park opened on April 20, 2002.
Today, the park features a 1.75-mile, one-way trail around a portion of Pinnacle Peak. The trail is open to both hikers and horseback riders. It has a 1,300-foot elevation gain and is rated moderate by the Sierra Club.

The trail’s top elevation is 2,889 feet, offering great views of the Valley. Rock climbing, for experienced climbers with appropriate gear, is permitted in three areas of the park with a variety of routes and skill levels. 

Amenities include a parking area for cars and trailers, restrooms, drinking fountains, a ramada and four picnic tables.

Friday’s celebration includes a performance by flautist Pat Rickard, a solar program and a sunset hike (registration required). Saturday’s activities include Southwest Wildlife and astronomy programs and remarks by Mayor W.J. “Jim” Lane and other special guests.  For complete listing of activities and registration information, visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov/parks/pinnacle or call 480-312-0990. 

Pinnacle Peak Park offers guided interpretive tours, astronomy evenings and specialty exhibits seasonally. 

The nonprofit volunteer group, Friends of Pinnacle Peak Park, formed in 2005 to support, preserve and enhance the park's unique character. Learn more about the Friends of Pinnacle Peak Park at www.pinnaclepeakpark.com.

 

Related Links

Other Links