Telegraph to "bottom" of Pyramid at South Mountain out & back

Join me for a nice, chatting-pace, hike that will still give your heart, lungs, and legs some delightful exercise while enjoying the great outdoors. Telegraph's parking lot is often filled, necessitating a parking trip to the school a short distance back down the road. Plan on needing the extra time to make it to the trailhead on time.
Difficulty: intermediate, 2 big climbs and steady avg. 2 mph pace
Trailhead: South Mountain -Telegraph off E Desert Foothills Pkwy in
Ahwatukee (more parking available at school back down the
road, allow additional time, 15-20 minutes, to meet at the trailhead)
Length: 7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,870 ft
Hike Description: starts fairly level then begins to climb, with some big steps up on to boulders and the usual tons of loose rocks of all sizes most of the time. We walk a very short bit along the road on National. Then we head up to the junction with Pyramid (recently renamed Gila). Pyramid is a really nice rolling trail, until we hit the downhill portion. This part is steep and has lots of small loose rocks and a few switchbacks. You can choose
to wait at the top or head back on your own at this point. We will hike down the switchbacks to the bottom of this peak and then climb back up it returning the way we came.
Come Prepared: hiking footwear and clothes, 3L of water, sunscreen, poles and snacks if you want/need them

**Hiking has its dangers. By signing up and attending this, you are responsible for your own safety, and organizers and their assistants cannot be held responsible for any injuries or other mishaps that may occur. Come prepared as if you were hiking and navigating solo. Download the trail on your favorite hiking app. Take responsibility for your own safety and whereabouts on the trail.
Leave your dog(s) at home for this hike