Pink Hill Trail

Overview

Pink Hill Trail threads through classic Sonoran desert and climbs a small, rosy-soiled knoll for a surprisingly wide panorama. The trail is 1.5 miles one way and most hikers experience it as part of a short loop or an out-and-back to the summit spur. Expect minimal shade, firm desert tread with some sandy stretches, and that signature pink hill at the end.

Route and Terrain

From the Broadway Trailhead, head east on the Shantz Trail to reach Pink Hill. The tread is mostly firm desert soil with some short sandy sections. Typical grade is a gentle 3–4% (with brief pitches up to about 12.6%), and the cross-slope stays modest. The climb to the summit is stair-heavy: dozens of short staircases add up to roughly 500 steps, with the last ~200 feet packed with tight steps (some up to about 12 inches high). The corridor is narrow in places (typical width around two feet, narrowing to about 16 inches in spots), and a gate near parking limits width to roughly 43 inches.

Loops and Variations

If you want more than a simple up-and-down, it’s easy to stitch Pink Hill into mellow loops. A popular sampler (~3.4 miles total) strings Pink Hill with Loma Verde, Cholla, and Cactus Forest for an easy circuit with broad desert views. Want a bit more mileage? A longer loop (~5.1 miles) weaves Cactus Forest, Cholla, Squeeze Pen, and Pink Hill. Both feel mostly flat aside from the stair-stepped summit spur.

Best Time to Hike

Start early. There’s little to no shade and the sun amplifies the heat, especially in warm months. Morning light is kinder for photos and cooler for the step-heavy finish. Parking is limited, so earlier starts also make logistics easier.

Getting There and Crowd Feel

Begin at the Broadway Trailhead. Parking is along E Broadway Blvd and can be tight; arrive early on fair-weather weekends. Trails are well marked and generally well maintained; outside peak times, these loops can feel pleasantly quiet.

Accessibility and Pets

This is not an accessible trail: the narrow tread, gate width, frequent staircases, and variable grades are significant barriers for many mobility devices. Pets are not allowed on this trail.

Tips

Bring ample water and sun protection. Watch your footing on sandy patches and stair segments near the summit. You may encounter equestrians on designated segments—yield appropriately and give plenty of space.