Are you trying to think of the best place to go to for an upcoming fall vacation? Suppose you are into outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, fun bars, cool cafes, and a vibrant community. In that case, we have the perfect place for you. Scottsdale, Arizona is an outdoor-centric spot that features tons of hiking trails and vibrant culture that make people flock here from all over the world. Head here to really become one with nature, spend quality time with your loved ones, get in some outdoor exercise, and bond with your guests. There’s plenty to do when you choose to stay in one of our Scottsdale fall rentals. Let’s check out the top areas to go hiking in Scottsdale, the best peaks to tackle, and easy trails for you to do with your kids. We also let you know the best spots to get a filling breakfast after a hike, or an iced coffee before a hike to give you plenty of energy to get to the top.
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Best Hiking Near Scottsdale, Arizona
One of the top activities to do during your time in Arizona is to go hiking! The Fall season is the pristine time to go on lung-busting trails, go on easy walks with your family, or go on moderate hikes with a new group of friends in the Scottsdale area. Let’s check out the top trails to check out during your autumn holiday in Scottsdale!
Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain is one of the most prolific and noticeable structures in the entire country. This large profile mountain with red rock desert and granite is the city’s most well-known attraction, featuring two summit trails that lead up the side of the mountain and make a great half-day trip. Choose either the Echo Canyon Tail or the Cholla Trail to conquer steep sections, rocky paths, and smooth sections that make this hike a moderate and difficult adventure for a few-hour jaunt with your pals.
Pinnacle Peak Park
Pinnacle Peak Park in the northern section of Scottsdale features dozens of animals, pristine viewpoints, numerous trails, and amazing birds-eye viewpoints of the nearby cities of Scottsdale and Phoenix. Since you get views the entire way up, this short, but steep, trail is one of the best for locals and tourists alike.
We recommend heading here early in the morning to tackle this 1.8-mile trail before it gets too crowded. And then hop down into northern Scottsdale and grab a coffee afterward! One of the best spots to get coffee in north Scottsdale is Mythical Coffee, Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea, or Press Coffee in the Scottsdale Quarter.
Tom’s Thumb Trail
Tom’s thumb Trail is one of the most popular trails in the entire state — and for obvious reasons! Located right in the pristine McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Tom’s Thumb Trail is a steep and challenging rail that will keep you entertained the entire time.
Since this trail is full of switchbacks, viewpoints, and a short distance, we think this is the ideal trail for an evening hike to watch the sunset or a morning sunrise hike. Plus, with the incredible views of the McDowell Mountains and nearby Phoenix, you will never be too tired to do this hike!
Piestewa Peak
Last but not least, Piestewa Peak is a difficult trail that is good for advanced hikers and elite athletes who really want a challenge during their vacation! We recommend taking the Peak Summit Trail which takes you to the top of this steep trail in less than one hour, making it the ideal lunchtime hike after a great iced coffee. You will be able to see dozens of animals, mesquite trees, and mountains in the distance.
Best Cafes in Scottsdale, AZ
Are you looking for the perfect cup of coffee that is going to keep you going during intense hikes? Check out these cafes in Scottsdale, AZ, that is perfect for your caffeine addiction!
Berdena’s
Berdena’s is arguably the best place in Scottsdale for those who want unique flavors in their lattes and cappuccinos, and a filling and healthy avocado toast on crunchy and tasty bread! Head to this cool shop right in the center of Old Town to enjoy going shopping at a boutique afterward and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. This cafe has space for both a table indoors during a hot Fall day or outdoors to get the breeze on your face.
We recommend getting the cardamom rose cappuccino for a new drink, or sticking with the typical vanilla or mocha syrup for a classic drink .and don’t worry— you won’t get a sugar crash afterward with these natural-tasting flavors! Then, try avocado toast or a breakfast sandwich to power up before a big hike.
Schmooze Café
If you come to Flagstaff and you need to get a few bits of work done during your stay, like Zoom calls, emails, or projects, head to Schmooze Workspace and Cafe to enjoy a communal office space, grab a great cup of coffee, and stay caffeinated during your work. The inside space of Schmooze has tons of outlets, space, and countertops to set up your laptop and send a few emails to your co-workers.
Once you are done working, you can enjoy a hearty Croque Monsieur sandwich with cheesy eggs, Eggs Benedict with salmon or ham, and a filling omelet with your choice of meat and cheeses. Grab one of their nitro cold brew drinks before you go hiking to stay energized and ready to roll!
Cartel Coffee Lab
Last but not least, the Cartel Coffee Lab is one of the trendiest and hipster spots in the entire city. This low-key and laid-back coffee joint features a local coffee roaster, wooden ceiling, industrial space, and large tables that are perfect for playing cards, board games, or bringing your laptop. We love how you can come here and have a filling brunch or just come for the strong coffee.
We recommend getting the CCL, a vegan caramel, Better Half coconut almond creamer with cold brew concentrate. Or, try the Honey Lavender Matcha with organic lavender syrup and your choice of milk!
Scottsdale Accommodations
Are you looking for the perfect place to stay during your autumn vacation in Scottsdale? Instead of browsing websites for hours and hours on end, trying to find spacious hotels and hostels that can suit your needs, we have a better idea. Forget overpaying for a crowded and tiny hotel that doesn’t have any amenities or enough space for your guests. Stay Porter offers luxurious homes, spacious condos, and modern apartments that are perfect for groups of all sizes.
Check out our properties online and browse our website to find out what works for you! We provide a wide range of accommodations in Scottsdale, such as large mansions that can fit up to 20 guests and small condominiums that provide a spacious floor plan and stainless steel kitchen amenities for couples.
Plus, Porter offers professional employees who are clear and consistent with communication. We make sure the booking process is as easy and stress-free as possible to ensure that guests want to come back year after year and have the best vacation! If you need something during your stay, you can reach out to us, and we will do our best to take care of it for you. Our #1 goal is to make sure that you have a relaxing and fun time during your stay.