10 Best Hiking Trails in Scottsdale, Arizona | Top Scottsdale Trails
Scottsdale, Arizona, is a top outdoor destination for desert adventures, offering scenic mountains, well-maintained hiking trails, and some of the most accessible trail systems in the Sonoran Desert. From peaceful nature trail walks to challenging mountain hikes with serious elevation gain, Scottsdale hiking delivers unforgettable outdoor experiences for visitors and locals alike.
This guide highlights the best hiking trails in Scottsdale, focusing on trail difficulty, trail length, scenery, and overall experience so you can choose the perfect hike for your skill level.
1. Gateway Loop Trail – McDowell Sonoran Preserve (Gateway Trail)
The Gateway Loop Trail is one of the most popular Scottsdale trails and a standout hike within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Starting from the Gateway Trailhead, this scenic loop trail offers a balanced mix of gentle elevation gain, wide desert paths, and beautiful mountain views.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: ~4.5 miles
- Why It’s Great: Scenic loop trail with flexible route options, excellent desert views, and easy access to the preserve
This hike is ideal for those looking to experience classic Scottsdale hiking without extreme terrain.
2. Tom's Thumb Trail —Iconic Granite Formation & Elevation Gain
The Tom’s Thumb Trail is one of the most recognizable hiking routes in the McDowell Mountains. This rewarding hike climbs steadily through rocky desert terrain toward the famous granite formation, offering sweeping views along the way.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Distance: ~4–4.5 miles
- Why It’s Great: Iconic landmark, steady elevation gain, and panoramic mountain views
Tom’s Thumb Trail is a must-do hike for experienced hikers visiting Scottsdale.
3. Pinnacle Peak Trail – Scenic Park Hike
Located within Pinnacle Peak Park, this well-maintained trail is popular for its manageable trail difficulty and stunning scenery. The route offers a steady climb without technical sections, making it accessible to many hikers.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: ~3.5 miles out and back
- Why It’s Great: Clear paths, impressive desert views, and a great introduction to mountain hiking
This hike is perfect for those wanting rewarding views without an all-day commitment.
4. Lost Dog Wash Trail – Easy Desert Exploration & Running Trails
Lost Dog Wash is one of the most beginner-friendly Scottsdale trails, featuring wide paths and gentle terrain. It’s also popular among trail runners looking for smooth running trails in the desert.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: Varies
- Why It’s Great: Relaxed trail difficulty, spring wildflowers, and easy connections to longer trails
This area is ideal for casual hiking, trail running, and extended loop options.
5. Brown’s Ranch Trailhead – Quiet Preserve Trails
Brown’s Ranch Trailhead offers access to a quieter section of the preserve, with rolling hills and expansive desert scenery. These trails are perfect for longer hikes with fewer crowds.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: Varies
- Why It’s Great: Peaceful preserve setting, customizable trail length, and open mountain views
It’s an excellent choice for hikers seeking solitude in the desert.
6. Bajada Nature Trail – Family-Friendly Nature Trail
The Bajada Nature Trail is a short interpretive nature trail designed for easy exploration. Educational signage makes it ideal for families and first-time visitors to Scottsdale.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: ~0.5 miles
- Why It’s Great: Accessible trail, educational features, and gentle desert terrain
This trail is perfect for a quick hike or a relaxed walk near the trailhead.
7. Sunrise Peak Trail – Summit Views
Sunrise Peak is a popular mountain hike offering steady elevation gain and rewarding views of Scottsdale and the surrounding desert. The trail is rocky in sections but manageable for experienced hikers.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Distance: ~3 miles
- Why It’s Great: 360-degree views, strong workout, and stunning sunrise scenery
It’s a favorite local hike for those looking to push themselves.
8. Camelback Mountain – Strenuous Classic Near Scottsdale
Camelback Mountain is one of Arizona’s most famous hikes and a true test of endurance. With steep climbs and rocky terrain, this mountain hike delivers unmatched views from the summit.
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Distance: ~2.5–3 miles
- Why It’s Great: Iconic mountain, challenging terrain, and breathtaking desert views
This hike is best attempted early in the day with proper preparation.
9. Granite Mountain Trail – Rocky Summit Adventure
Granite Mountain Trail offers a rugged hike with impressive granite formations and challenging elevation gain. The trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding McDowell Mountains.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Distance: ~5 miles round trip
- Why It’s Great: Dramatic rock formations, less crowded, and expansive desert and mountain views
It’s ideal for hikers seeking a scenic and adventurous mountain experience.
10. Bell Pass Trail – Scenic Mountain Loop
Bell Pass Trail provides a moderately challenging loop with diverse desert landscapes and mountain scenery. The trail connects to multiple routes, offering flexibility in hike length and difficulty.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: ~3 miles
- Why It’s Great: Stunning mountain vistas, loop trail design, and excellent for both hiking and photography
A perfect addition for those wanting a varied and scenic Scottsdale hike.
Final Thoughts
The best hiking trails in Scottsdale offer a diverse mix of loop trails, mountain climbs, and peaceful nature walks across protected desert preserve land. With clearly marked trailheads, varied trail difficulty levels, and stunning desert views, Scottsdale remains one of the premier hiking destinations in Arizona.
Whether you’re planning a casual hike, training on running trails, or tackling a challenging mountain route, Scottsdale’s trail system has something for everyone. Combine your outdoor adventures with nearby activities, including scenic drives, local parks, and cultural attractions, and enjoy stays at luxury vacation rentals for comfort and easy access to the city’s top trails.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scottsdale Hiking
What is the best time of year for hiking in Scottsdale?
The most comfortable hiking season runs from October through April, when desert temperatures are cooler and more pleasant.
Are Scottsdale hiking trails good for beginners?
Yes, many Scottsdale trails offer easy to moderate difficulty, including Lost Dog Wash and Bajada Nature Trail.
How much water should I bring on a hike?
Always bring extra water, especially when hiking in the desert. Even short hikes can be dehydrating.
Is summer hiking safe in Scottsdale?
Summer hiking can be risky due to extreme heat. Early morning starts and shorter trail length options are strongly recommended.
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