The trail is in poor condition despite recent renovations. Lots of loose rocks which is a twisted ankle, fall accident waiting to happen. It is an EXTREMELY rigorous and difficult hike. I've done it many times and each time I'm amazed how many people should NOT be here. They are obviously here under false impressions and recommendations that it's a "leisure" or "easy" hike. They are out of breath, blue in the face, and confused...and yet they keep going. That is until someone throws up, falls, gets hurt or all 3. There's a reason why helicopters are always circling to rescue folks. PEOPLE DIE ON THIS HIKE AND MOUNTAIN EVERY YEAR! YOUNG AND FIT PEOPLE. IT'S NOT A JOKE. If you have to think whether you're in good shape, guess what...you're not. Be honest with yourself. The view is great if you're about 2 miles AWAY from the mountain from central Phoenix and you are looking at the mountain. When you're actually up there, you just see a bunch of smog and a whole lot of nothing. Skip, and head to the many other awesome trails around Phoenix area like Squaw Peak.