When planning your trip to Scottsdale, no matter the time of year, you’ll be spending quite a bit of time outdoors. Winter lows are typically only in the 40s, while summer highs can reach to the 100s. Those lower winter temps mean hiking is a great activity any time of the day, but as the heat gets turned up in the spring and summer, you’ll need to rise a bit earlier to get your miles in before the heat gets too intense. There are hundreds of Scottsdale hiking trails for all ages and skill levels that are open from sunrise to sunset year-round.
Saguaro Loop and Nature Trail
Part of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, the Saguaro Loop and Nature Trail is a beautiful 1.5-mile loop only elevates you an extra 154 feet. The year-round accessible trail is family-friendly and is great for hiking and immersing yourself in desert nature. Bring your pooch, and their leash, along for the easy trek.
Gateway Loop
At 4.2 miles and an elevation change of just 715 feet, the Gateway Loop is one fo the more moderately difficult, yet family-friendly hiking trails in Scottsdale that is accessible year-round. The trail can get a bit rocky, and you’ll want to watch out for mountain bikers as it’s a great track for them, too. Dotted with wildflowers, saguaro cacti, and ‘jumping’ Cholla cacti and other desert landscape, the unshaded trail will offer a good two-hour workout. Be on the lookout for desert dwellers like deer, Gila monsters, lizards, bobcats, and even snakes. Bring your dog along for the workout, but make sure to keep it leashed.
Pinnacle Peak
Another moderate climb, Pinnacle Peak Trail is a local favorite, so there will be plenty of people joining you for your hike. The 3.8-mile trail features gorgeous wildflowers along its family-friendly “out and back” trail. Along the 1,003-foot elevation change you’ll want to keep a look out for birds and other desert wildlife. Prepare for nature’s beauty at its best.
Tom’s Thumb
Seasoned hikers will want to check out Tom’s Thumb. No, it’s not an actual thumb, but the rock formation it’s named after looks like one. There are several trails to hike to get to the thumb itself, and many of them are a difficult climb, but that doesn’t deter hikers coming in droves to test their skills. Prepare for a workout: the four-mile stretch of “out and back” trail will have you 1,236 feet higher at the top of the trail before heading back down. Pack your sun gear, as there’s no shade on this rocky, overgrown path speckled with wildflowers. If Fido’s up for the climb, make sure you bring a leash. Watch for desert wildlife, too!
Hiking in Scottsdale
Hiking is a great way to get out and exercise as well as experience the beauty of the desert landscape surrounding Scottsdale. You’ll want a place to lace up your hiking boots and come back and relax in after a long day of hiking and enjoying everything Scottsdale has to offer. A vacation rental by Porter is just the place. Enjoy the privacy and luxury of one of our rental homes, from a cozy two-bedroom to a sprawling seven-bedroom. Many of our rentals feature private pools and luxurious outdoor as well as indoor spaces. Cook a meal in the fully equipped kitchen, many with stainless steel appliances, attached to the open great room so you can still be a part of the group. Choose an upgraded unit for features like an outdoor kitchen with BBQ grill, or a frameless shower. Ask about units that allow your furry companion to stay in luxury.
Call us to start planning the ultimate Scottsdale getaway!
