McDowell Sonoran Preserve
18333 N McDowell Mountain Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Overview
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a 30,000-acre desert preserve in Scottsdale, one of the largest urban preserves in the United States. The preserve offers over 200 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian use, with rugged desert terrain, saguaro cacti, and panoramic views of the McDowell Mountains and the Valley of the Sun. The preserve is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and is one of the most important natural areas in the Phoenix area.
Why Visit
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers some of the best hiking and desert recreation in the Phoenix area. The preserve's extensive trail system provides options for all levels, from easy walks to challenging summit hikes, and the desert scenery is spectacular, with saguaro cacti, rock formations, and panoramic mountain views. The preserve is a peaceful, natural retreat and is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Scottsdale.
Amenities
- Over 200 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails
- Multiple trailheads with parking
- Desert flora and fauna
- Panoramic mountain and valley views
- Interpretive signage
- Visitor center at the Gateway Trailhead
Things to Do
- Hike the trails throughout the preserve
- Mountain bike the preserve's extensive trail system
- Hike to the summit of Tom's Thumb or Brown's Peak
- View desert flora and fauna
- Visit the Gateway Trailhead and visitor center
- Photograph the desert and mountain scenery
Who This Park Is Best For
Hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and nature lovers seeking extensive desert trails and panoramic mountain views in Scottsdale.
Parking Information
Parking is available at various trailheads throughout the preserve, including the Gateway Trailhead, the Tom's Thumb Trailhead, and the Lost Dog Wash Trailhead. Parking can fill up on weekends and during the cooler months.
Location
18333 N McDowell Mountain Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Nearby Cities & Neighborhoods
Nearby Attractions
- Gateway Trail
- Tom's Thumb Trail
- Brown's Ranch Trailhead
- McDowell Mountains