2026 Summit Challenge

The Arrowhead Hiking Club was created for people in the Northwest Valley who enjoy getting outside and exploring our local trails. For 2026, we are launching the Summit Challenge, a simple, fun goal built around hiking some of the best mountains close to home, which can be completed throughout the year.

The challenge includes eight different hikes to eight local summits, all in and around Glendale and the surrounding area. Each hike offers its own views, terrain, and sense of accomplishment, giving members a reason to stay active and discover some new trails you may not have experienced yet.

The 2026 Summit Challenge is about enjoying the desert, setting personal goals, and hiking alongside others who love the outdoors, one summit at a time.

Complete the challenge and you’ll win a free tshirt!

The Arrowhead Hiking Club schedule will include multiple opportunities to reach all eight summits, or you can complete all eight on your own. It will be way more fun with the group though!!!

See all the summit details below

The trail in Thunderbird Conservation Park offers breathtaking views of the sunset and beautiful spring flowers on the hillsides. The terrain starts out sandy and becomes rocky as you ascend. It's recommended to wear good shoes with tread and be prepared for no shade. The switchbacks make the climb enjoyable, allowing for incredible views.

This trail is 2.4 miles long, has 470 feet of elevation gain at takes about an hour.

Full details here.

The Cholla Loop features rocky terrain, gravel, switchbacks, and gradual elevation. Bring sun protection, as this trail is not shaded. Come early or late to beat the heat. This trail is home to quails, desert tortoises, and lizards. The views on the trail are stunning, especially during sunrise/sunset.

This trail is 3.5 miles long, has 593 feet of elevation gain at takes about 1.5 hours.

Full details here.

This scenic trail climbs a rocky desert path across open slopes lined with palo verde, mesquite, and scattered cacti. The surface shifts between firm dirt, loose gravel, and stone steps as it rises toward the ridge. Steeper sections near the top pass boulders and low scrub, with wide foothill views growing clearer as elevation increases. The route remains bright and exposed all the way to the rugged summit

This trail is 1.6 miles long, has 325 feet of elevation gain at takes about an hour, depending on the route you choose.

Full details here.

Eastwing Mountain is a lightly travelled trail in Peoria that has both moderate and difficult hiking options. The difficult option is a rock scramble up. On the moderate trail you will have to go down the rock portion to complete the loop. There is a beautiful 360 degree view from the top of Peoria and the surrounding area.

This trail is 1.8 miles long, has 433 feet of elevation gain at takes about an hour.

Full details here.

West Wing Mountain Loop starting at Westwing Park in Peoria, AZ. This loop includes the marked "loop" of 3.1 miles plus additional spurs to scenic views, alternative "extreme" route and short access from parking lot to official start. Trail is rocky due to volcanic basalt and tuff. Great neighborhood trail.

This trail is 3.8 miles long, has 793 feet of elevation gain at takes about two hours.

Full details here.

Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 34 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are October through May.

This trail is 4.1 miles long, has 827 feet of elevation gain at takes about 2-2.5 hours.

Full details here.

The Deems Hill Ridgeline Trail is well-maintained. There is some light climbing on the rocky trail. An incline on the broad trail leads directly to the mountain's summit. You'll be surrounded by lush vegetation all along the trail. Once you arrive at the little peak segment, you'll be rewarded with a unique 360-degree perspective of the area. The municipal park and the surrounding neighborhoods are visible. As the Phoenix Mountains' flowing waves extend into an unending sea, a stunning backdrop may be seen behind you.

This trail is 3.8 miles long, has 641 feet of elevation gain at takes about 1.5-2 hours.

Full details here.

The trail to the summit is steep and short, featuring numerous switchbacks. Hikers will be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding area. However, expect challenges such as rocky sections and steep climbs. It is advisable to start early and bring plenty of water. While the trail is dog-friendly, be cautious of cacti that can break off and fall onto the path.

This trail is 3.2 miles long, has 646 feet of elevation gain at takes about 1.5-2 hours.

Full details here.

We are super excited about the Summit Challenge and spending more time on the trail!

There are three opportunities to complete hikes towards the Summit Challenge in January!