Best hiking trails in Scottsdale

Camelback Mountain is one of Phoenix’s best hiking and rock climbing destinations and offers great views of the metropolitan area. Located in the Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Area, this area preserves a lot of native species that are unique to the Phoenix area and surrounding desert environment. The summit can be reached via two hiking trails: Echo Canyon Trail and Cholla Trail. Both trails are strenuous and subject to extreme heat, so it is recommended to bring plenty of...

Enjoy expansive desert landscape views on this scenic route through the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This is a great trail to enjoy in the fall and spring as both seasons bring mild weather and a variety of scenery. The terrain can be rocky and challenging in some sections, and appropriate footwear is suggested. The trailhead is open from sunrise to sunset. Please be mindful of extreme heat in the summer.

This route offers spectacular views of the surrounding Scottsdale area. A little past the half-mile marker, the Grandview rest stop presents a panorama of the valley and McDowell Mountain. From Owls Rest, one mile up the trail, you can make out Camelback Mountain in the distance. This hike has no facilities along the trail, so fill your water bottles at the drinking fountains near the trailhead's restrooms. Hiking during early morning hours or weekdays is recommended for those who enjoy the...

This trail leads through an exposed canyon in a wash that ends at Camp Creek Falls. There are multiple forks between the trailhead and the wash, which are slightly confusing. Turn left once you get down to the wide wash, and follow this path until turning left at the flag and mine claim corner post. The falls are seasonal and best enjoyed after heavy rainfall.

This is a beautiful hike around the mountain and one of the best spots in north Scottsdale. The trail is well-marked and can accommodate horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, and trail running. There is no shade along the way, and it is suggested to start early to avoid the hottest part of the day.

The trail offers an incredible opportunity to enjoy the views of the local flora and fauna, especially during spring when various cacti are in full bloom. It is advised to start the hike early in the morning to get some shade on your way up to Inspiration Point. However, be mindful of the rocky trail with many loose rocks that can be an ankle twister. The incline of the trail makes it an excellent workout, and the last half-mile is an extra challenge. Once you reach Inspiration Point, you...

This trail begins at the Gateway Trailhead parking lot, off the North Thompson Peak Parkway. From here, you'll head through the McDowell Sonoran Preserve up to the Gateway Saddle and back again. The terrain offers a good workout, with a steady incline along a dirt trail with loose rocks. Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are recommended. The trails are well-maintained and clearly marked.

This hiking trail is an out-and-back route that leads to Sunrise Peak in the McDowell-Sonoran Preserve. The trail begins at the Lost Dog Wash trailhead and gradually ascends through the beautiful Sonoran Desert. The last bit of the trail is steep and requires a little effort to reach the top of Sunrise Peak. Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the metro Phoenix, the Superstition Mountains, and the Four Peaks Wilderness.

The Lost Dog Trail begins at a trailhead with ample parking. It leads into mostly rocky terrain that offers excellent southern views. As you hike, you'll see much of the beautiful desert landscape. The trail features gradual inclines and declines between paloverde-lined washes and open fields punctuated with giant saguaros, ironwood trees, and some ravine walks. The trail is well-marked and has mileage to various connecting trails. It is a mix of firm sand and rocks, crisscrossing the wash...

Marcus Landslide Trail is an interpretive trail with signs along the way describing the geological forces that led to a landslide about 500,000 years ago. This trail is fairly easy for the most part except for the final loop section which climbs up. There are many boulders and interesting rock formations along the way. The interpretive signs give information about the landslide, how it was believed to be caused, and the resulting landscape. The trail also gives nice views of the surrounding...