Scottsdale: McDowell Sonoran Preserve Hiking Tour

Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the stunning natural beauty of the desert. A guided hiking tour through this remarkable landscape promises an unforgettable experience, revealing the rich history, diverse flora, and breathtaking vistas that make this preserve a true gem. With knowledgeable guides and a limited group size, visitors can expect a personalized and rewarding exploration of this unique desert ecosystem.

This experience made our article of 11 Most Highly Rated Hiking And Trekking Tours In Phoenix.

Key Points

• This 2.5-hour guided tour of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale offers a scenic hike to the top of Granite Mountain with stunning landscape views.
• The tour is priced at $150 per person and is limited to a maximum of 10 participants, providing an intimate and personalized experience.
• Guests can learn about the unique desert ecosystem, flora, fauna, and Native American history during the guided hike.
• Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a "reserve now & pay later" option is available.
• Participants must have a moderate level of physical fitness, bring appropriate gear, and are required to follow the tour guidelines for a safe and enjoyable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Scottsdale Hiking Tour offers participants the opportunity to explore the scenic trails of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

The 2.5-hour guided tour is priced from $150 per person and is limited to 10 participants. Hikers will enjoy the desert flora, fauna, and Native American history as they’re led to the top of Granite Mountain for picturesque views.

Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, taking in desert flora, fauna, and Native American history to the top of Granite Mountain.

Bottled water is provided, but participants must bring their own snacks and wear appropriate hiking attire.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone with pre-existing medical conditions.

Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

Booking Information

How does one book the Scottsdale Hiking Tour? Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment through the convenient "reserve now & pay later" option.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers should check the tour’s availability for desired starting times and participant selection.

This ensures the ideal group size of 10 participants or fewer. With simple booking and flexible cancellation policies, guests can plan their Scottsdale hiking adventure with ease.

Tour Highlights

Guests can explore the scenic trails of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, learning about the desert’s flora, fauna, and Native American history during the guided hike.

Explore the scenic trails of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, learning about the desert’s flora, fauna, and Native American history on a guided hike.

The tour highlights include:

• A guided hike to Granite Mountain, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.

• Assistance from experienced guides to capture memorable photographs during the tour.

• Opportunities to learn about the unique desert ecosystem and its indigenous inhabitants.

• A chance to take in the natural beauty of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

• Complimentary bottled water to stay hydrated throughout the 2.5-hour adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a scenic hike, an experienced tour guide, and complimentary bottled water to keep you hydrated throughout the 2.5-hour adventure.

However, the tour excludes food and drinks, as well as tips for the guide.

It’s also not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Participants should come prepared with a passport or ID, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothing, and weather-appropriate attire.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required to fully enjoy the hike to the top of Granite Mountain.

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Preparation and Requirements

To fully enjoy the Scottsdale Hiking Tour, participants should come prepared with a passport or ID, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothing, and weather-appropriate attire.

The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Participants should also be aware that the tour may be canceled due to poor weather, in which case options for rescheduling or a full refund will be available.

Plus, the tour may be canceled if the minimum number of participants isn’t met, again with options for rescheduling or a full refund.

• Passport or ID

• Hiking shoes

• Sunscreen

• Water

• Comfortable clothing

Exploring the McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Exploring the McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers visitors a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert. This vast expanse of rugged terrain and diverse flora and fauna provides an exceptional hiking experience. Traversing the well-maintained trails, visitors can expect to encounter a variety of desert plant life, from towering saguaro cacti to delicate wildflowers. The guided hike to Granite Mountain promises breathtaking panoramic views that will leave a lasting impression. Hikers can look forward to learning about the region’s rich Native American heritage and the unique adaptations of the desert ecosystem.

| Highlights | Description |

| — | — |

| Desert Flora | Discover an array of cacti, shrubs, and wildflowers adapted to the arid environment. |

| Native History | Explore the cultural legacy of the region’s indigenous peoples. |

| Scenic Views | Witness the stunning vistas from the Granite Mountain trail. |

| Wildlife Spotting | Keep an eye out for desert-dwelling animals, such as lizards, rabbits, and birds. |

Discovering Desert Flora and Fauna

As visitors embark on the Scottsdale Hiking Tour, they’ll have the opportunity to discover the remarkable desert flora and fauna that thrive in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

From the iconic saguaro cactus to the resilient creosote bush, the tour guides will point out the diverse plant life adapted to the arid climate.

The diverse plant life of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, from the iconic saguaro to the resilient creosote bush, is expertly highlighted by tour guides.

Hikers may also spot:

• Roadrunners scurrying across the trails

• Jackrabbits bounding through the shrubs

• Gila monsters, one of the few venomous lizards in North America

• Prickly pear cactus with their vibrant flowers

• Barrel cactus, nature’s water bottles for desert dwellers

Hiking to Granite Mountain

The highlight of the Scottsdale Hiking Tour is the guided hike to the summit of Granite Mountain, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding desert landscape. Ascending the 3.5-mile trail, hikers will encounter diverse flora and fauna, including prickly pear cactus, ocotillo, and potentially spotting desert bighorn sheep. At the top, the reward is a breathtaking 360-degree view of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

| Hike Difficulty | Elevation Gain | Trail Length | Duration | Difficulty Rating |

| ————— | ————- | ———— | ——– | —————– |

| Moderate | 1,600 feet | 7 miles | 2.5 hrs | 4/5 |

The guided tour ensures hikers make the most of this picturesque experience, with expert commentary on the natural and cultural history of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions, so a reasonable level of fitness is expected.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?

The tour doesn’t allow pets as they’re not suitable for the moderate physical activity and terrain. Participants should focus on their own safety and enjoyment during the hike.

Is the Tour Suitable for Beginners With Little Hiking Experience?

The tour isn’t primarily geared towards beginners, as it requires moderate physical fitness. However, the guides can accommodate hikers with varying experience levels and can provide guidance and support throughout the trek.

Can I Purchase Additional Water or Snacks During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include additional food or drinks, but participants can purchase their own snacks and water at the meeting point before the hike. Guides won’t provide these during the tour.

Is There a Public Restroom Available at the Meeting Point?

Yes, there are public restrooms available at the Granite Mountain Trailhead, which is the meeting point for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve Hiking Tour. Hikers can access these facilities before and after the tour.

The Sum Up

Explore the stunning McDowell Sonoran Preserve on a guided hiking tour. Ascend Granite Mountain for breathtaking views and uncover the desert’s rich history and diverse wildlife. With knowledgeable guides and an intimate group, this 2.5-hour adventure offers an immersive outdoor experience for $150 per person. Don’t forget to bring the necessary items for a rewarding journey through Scottsdale’s natural wonder.

You can check availability for your dates here: