Scottsdale Hiking
Scottsdale’s unique combination of scenic desert landscapes, challenging hiking trails, and mild weather makes it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there is a trail in Scottsdale that will suit your interests and skill level.
Scottsdale, Arizona is home to a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks that offer stunning views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert landscape. Below you will see a summary of some of the most popular hiking trails in Scottsdale.
Overall, Scottsdale offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging treks. The trails offer stunning views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert landscape and are a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Gateway Trailhead-McDowell Sonoran Preserve
The Gateway Trailhead is one of the primary entrances to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a vast wilderness area located in North Scottsdale. The preserve spans over 30,000 acres and is home to an incredible variety of plant and animal life, including saguaro cacti, desert tortoises, and a variety of bird species.
The Gateway Trailhead is a popular starting point for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, as it offers access to a variety of trails that wind through the desert landscape. Some of the most popular trails at the Gateway Trailhead include the Bell Pass Trail, the Windgate Pass Trail, and the Gateway Loop Trail.
Fraesfield Loop Trail
The Fraesfield Loop Trail is one of the many hiking trails located within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale, Arizona. This 4.8-mile loop trail is rated as moderate in difficulty and offers hikers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
The trailhead for the Fraesfield Loop Trail is located at the Fraesfield parking lot, which provides ample parking and restroom facilities. From the trailhead, hikers will begin their journey by heading east on the Fraesfield Trail, which offers views of the McDowell Mountains and the Sonoran Desert.
Granite Mountain Loop Trail
The Granite Mountain Loop Trail is a popular hiking trail located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale, Arizona. This 4.7-mile loop trail is rated as moderate in difficulty and offers hikers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape.
The trailhead for the Granite Mountain Loop Trail is located at the Granite Mountain Trailhead, which provides parking and restroom facilities. From the trailhead, hikers will begin their journey by heading north on the Granite Mountain Trail, which winds through the desert landscape and offers views of the nearby mountains.
After about a mile, hikers will reach the junction with the Bootlegger Trail, where they can turn left to stay on the Granite Mountain Trail or turn right to head down the Bootlegger Trail. The Bootlegger Trail is an out-and-back trail that leads hikers to a viewpoint overlooking the valley below.
Scottsdale is Camelback Mountain
One of the most popular hiking destinations in Scottsdale is Camelback Mountain, which is located in the heart of the city and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The mountain has two trails – Echo Canyon Trail and Cholla Trail – that are both challenging and rewarding.
Camelback Mountain is a popular hiking destination for both locals and tourists alike. The mountain offers two main hiking trails – the Echo Canyon Trail and the Cholla Trail. Both trails are challenging and offer stunning views of the Phoenix skyline and surrounding desert landscape.
The Echo Canyon Trail is a 1.23-mile trail that gains about 1,300 feet in elevation. The trail features steep inclines and rocky terrain, making it a challenging hike for even experienced hikers.
