Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hike

Discover a classic guided loop hike in the stunning McDowell Mountains of Scottsdale, where rugged desert beauty meets expansive mountain views. Your adventure begins at the trailhead, where a certified professional guide from Mad Desert Trekking warmly welcomes you and leads the way into the heart of the breathtaking McDowell Sonoran Preserve. As the largest city owned preserve in the world, this remarkable landscape offers a true escape into nature. Along the trail, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the Sonoran Desert, surrounded by striking geological formations and a rich variety of native plants and wildlife found only in this extraordinary environment.

Journey through open desert expanses, winding canyons, sandy washes, and scenic mountain ridges that showcase the raw beauty of the Southwest. Ascend gentle switchbacks that reveal sweeping views of Phoenix and the greater Valley of the Sun, where endless horizons stretch beneath brilliant desert skies. At a peaceful mountain saddle, pause to take in panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and the vast Sonoran Desert extending far into the distance. This guided hike offers not only unforgettable scenery but also meaningful insight into the ecology, history, and spirit of this iconic desert landscape, creating an enriching and inspiring outdoor experience.