Must do hike for anyone new or visiting Phoenix! It truly is an real hike that takes approximently 1 hour each way. Its not a little trail or loop its a real hike that u must take water sunscreen and a hat for. I went on Thursday morning and the palce was pretty empty which I prefer vs busy weekends.
The trail starts off fairly easy but soon u are ascending in these switchbacks where the trail goes left than right to gradually climb higher. The trail is marked really well and tells u ur at the .5, 1, and 1.5 mile marker .The best thing about this trail is most of the ground is soft dirt and is easier on your knees than some desert trails I've donr in Arizona and Las Vegas. I will also make a special note the last half mile is very tough and does include more bouldering as you make your way to Tom's actual Thumb. Also there is very little shade on the trail so again it will get hot!
Bottom line bring water, a hat, go early if possible and be ready for a solid 2 hour hike!