I wish that I could give Piestewa Peak another half of a star. This trail is located smack dab in the middle of the Metropolitan Phoenix Area, the Valley of the Sun. I've been on the trail consistently for almost 8 years now (although I do prefer the Echo Canyon trail on Camelback Mountain.)
This steep trail is difficult and hard every time that I hike / run it. There are many ages of people that do the hike and there are a number of benches / seating areas for taking a break. This strenuous hike is not for the faint of heights. On the way up, the trail is narrow and overlooking steep drop-offs on more than one section. Make sure to have plenty of water, a phone and I would recommend hiking it with a partner a few times before venturing up it alone.
Also, please use common sense when trying to find a parking spot. There are plenty of ramadas and other trails in the Phoenix Mountain Preserves if the main parking area is full with a line of cars waiting to park. Keep driving north, you will find a spot. There are NO DOGS allowed on this trail because it is so narrow.
Allow yourself 1.5 -2.5 hours for your first time up. This may also include the parking issue, resting on the way up, and the walk from the car to the trailhead. Bring alot of water, use sunscreen and have fun.