From leisurely scenic walks to fitness hikes, Scottsdale is the best place to find the right fit for your wellness needs.
Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve at sunrise. PHOTO BY LONNA TUCKER/COURTESY OF EXPERIENCE SCOTTSDALE
One of Scottsdale’s easiest hikes, this half-mile loop offers gorgeous McDowell Mountain views. With a wide, scenic trail, it’s perfect for those new to Sonoran Desert hiking and for families with young children, as well as those with mobility challenges. Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, 18333 N. Thompson Peak Parkway, scottsdaleaz.gov
On the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, hikers can find the Gateway trailhead bridge. PHOTO BY DOUG BENNETT
This 4.5-mile trail gains only 655 feet in elevation, so it’s a nice leisurely walk through the desert that loops around to your starting point. Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, 18333 N. Thompson Peak Parkway, mcdowellsonoran.org
About a half-mile long, with views of Brown’s Mountain and neighboring Cone Mountain, Jane Rau circles through beautiful wildflowers, tall saguaros and clumps of boulders. This soothing path is good for all skill levels. Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, 18333 N. Thompson Peak Parkway, mcdowellsonoran.org
Spectacular views of surrounding landmarks including Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West as well as Camelback and Pinnacle Peak mountains are enjoyed on this hiking trail. With only about 380 feet in elevation, the out-and-back length of just over 5 miles makes it a moderate undertaking. Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, 18333 N. Thompson Peak Parkway, mcdowellsonoran.org
Get a moderate cardio workout on this North Scottsdale trail that leads you to the summit where you’ll enjoy expansive views of the Valley. Keep a lookout for Gambel’s quail, jack rabbits, cactus wrens and roadrunners. The roundtrip distance is 3.5 miles, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,300 feet. Pinnacle Peak Park, 26802 N. 102nd Way, scottsdaleaz.gov
A perfect two-hour hustle to the top, this 4.3-mile moderate trail offers hikers a chance to see wildlife while going through a forest of cactuses. Dogs are also able to use this trail, so feel free to bring your best pal to take a break and enjoy the panorama up top. Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, 18333 N. Thompson Peak Parkway, mcdowellsonoran.org
Steep and challenging, climbing more than 1,200 feet in 2.3 miles through a wonderland of huge boulders, this hike is a rock climber’s dream. Sights include Tom’s Thumb, Windgate Overlook, Gardener’s Wall, Sven Slab and Mesquite Canyon. Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, 18333 N. Thompson Peak Parkway, mcdowellsonoran.org
Wildflowers on the Granite Mountain Loop Trail. PHOTO BY JOEL HAZELTON
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