One of the many reasons Marc and I relocated to Arizona in 2017 was for the never-ending opportunities for unique outdoor activities, specifically hiking. Now, as a clarification, we are day hikers, not campers. No sleeping in tents for us. That being said, we don't discriminate based on the time of day. Often, sunrise and sunset hikes are ideal as the summer months come and temperatures start to rise (think over 90 degrees before the sun rises!).
If you are willing to get out of bed before the sun rises, one of the most unique experiences you can have in Arizona is greeting the day with the Taiko drummer on Piestewa Peak. Beginning in March 2020, when the pandemic hit the United States, and every day since, Ken Koshio has climbed Piestewa Peak to pray and greet the day with music.
Piestewa Peak
Peistewa Peak is the second highest mountain in the Phoenix Mountains, peaking at 2,610 feet. It is located in the Piestewa Peak Recreation Area within the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, in the middle of the city. Its location makes it easy to access for anyone staying in the Phoenix or Scottsdale area, and has plenty of parking at the beginning of the trailhead. Although it's a popular hike, please know it is difficult. The out and back trail is 1.2 miles to the peak (2.4 miles total) with an elevation gain of 1,200 feet. While the beginning of the hike resembles wide steps at a gradual increase, the climb to the peak can be daunting. As someone who is perpetually afraid of heights, the steep climb up and down from the peak leaves my stomach in knots, but I promise the view is worth it! Obviously, I'm not so overwhelmed that I don't risk climbing it when it's dark.
For locals who grew up in Arizona, the trail is commonly referred to as Squaw Peak. After the 2003 Iraq War, the peak was renamed after Lori Ann Piestewa, the first known Native American woman to die in combat in the U.S. military.
Taiko Drumming Ceremony
Each morning, Ken Koshio climbs Piestewa with his taiko drum and Hopi flutes. The Hopi are a Native American tribe who live primarily in northeastern Arizona. Lori Ann Peistewa was a part of the Hopi Tribe.
At the peak, Koshio prepares for the ceremony and then will typically explain his performance to the crowd that forms. Hikers sit amongst the rocks and watch with anticipation. I've had the pleasure of seeing Koshio perform on multiple occasions and the experience never dulls. His performance aimed at inspiring positivity, but is also a form of prayer.
As the sun begins to rise, Koshio plays the drum and a rendition of "Amazing Grace" on his flute. The colors light up the sky and the music floats on the wind. Koshio bows to the four cardinal points and balances on one leg while the other extends out from tree pose. It is by far the most peaceful and calming experience I've ever had to help me greet my day.
How to Prepare?
While I recommend this hike to everyone who visits Arizona, it's extremely important to be prepared for a hike. Depending on the weather, plan to wear layers. While you hike, you will be plenty warm, but the top of the mountain brings a chill with the breeze. You want to enjoy the performance, not be shivering out of your own skin. The best time of year to go is between October and May. Not only will the weather be a lot cooler, but the sun will also be rising later. That means getting out of bed later to start the hike.
Anticipate that it will take you a little over 1 hour to climb to the peak. While my friends and I have chipped away at the time to get up in about 45 minutes, the first time you hike any mountain will always take you longer. Adjust for your activity and skill level.
Always make sure to bring plenty of water, regardless of the weather. I often carry up breakfast with me too, like a bagel or granola bar. Just don't be that person that leaves your trash behind! As this is a sunrise hike, you also need to remember a head lamp or flashlight. Head lamps can be invaluable so you can keep your hands free to catch yourself when you stumble (or maybe that's just my clumsy self).
Koshio has not confirmed when he plans to stop the tradition, so don't miss the opportunity to see him perform! Even if he stops his daily performances, the calm of the sun rising over the city and peak will never be a bad way to start your day in Arizona.
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