McDowell Sonoran Preserve

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McDowell Sonoran Preserve Tours

McDowell Sonoran Preserve

McDowell Sonoran Preserve

McDowell Sonoran Preserve Tours and Tickets

324 reviews

Free admission

If there’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts near Phoenix, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve might be it. Just beyond the city limits to the northeast, the preserve comprises more than 30,000 acres (12,140 hectares) of protected Sonoran Desert habitat around the McDowell Mountains, with trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

18333 North Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale, Arizona, 85255

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11 results

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Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert

Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert

The Sonoran Desert is one of the hottest deserts in the US, and unless you're experienced at making your way through the desert, going alone can be dangerous. Prebook this Sonoran Desert Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure and go with a guide who puts your safety first and customizes the adventure based on your experience and preferred skill level. Cold water, snacks, and sunscreen are included.

2 hours
Free Cancellation

Price varies by group size

2 Hour Self Guided E-bike Rental

2 Hour Self Guided E-bike Rental

E-bikes are the perfect way to explore sunny Scottsdale. After a safety orientation, get on an easy-to-use electric bicycle and find your way through the city for your own unique adventure. Options include visits to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Old Town Scottsdale, and everything in between. You'll have a map, helmet, and wheels to get you wherever you fancy.

2 hours
Free Cancellation

Private Scottsdale Day Hiking Tour

Private Scottsdale Day Hiking Tour

Join on us a great hike through the Sonoran Desert! The Gateway loop trail offers a fantastic moderate hiking experience that will get us back into the hills of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve providing great desert views and experience. On our hike, we will see a wide array of desert plants and cactus, sweeping views of the desert and overlook views of the city. Along the way we generally see lots of desert lizards and birds to add to the great scenery of our hike. This hike is great for the beginning to intermediate hiker and groups of varying capabilities.

3 hours

Likely to Sell Out

Scottsdale Desert Classic Hiking Adventure

Scottsdale Desert Classic Hiking Adventure

Experience the best of Scottsdale on a classic hike through the beautiful McDowell Sonoran Preserve. We'll customize your hike to your preferences, discuss the geology, plants, and plants of the Sonoran Desert, and enjoy trailside snacks and beverages at a beautiful lookout. You'll meet your guide from Mad Desert Trekking at the trailhead, who has everything you need for your hike. We guarantee a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience in the unforgettable expanses of theSonoran Desert.

3 hours
Free Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Iconic Tom's Thumb Hiking Adventure in Scottsdale

Iconic Tom's Thumb Hiking Adventure in Scottsdale

Take a guided hike in Scottsdale’s Sonoran Preserve up to Tom’s Thumb, an iconic granite landmark. This is about a three hour hike, where your guide will take you through the desert, showing you the flora and fauna. You’ll see the saguaro cactus forest, and other amazing geological formations and beautiful views of Scottsdale.

3 hours
Free Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Half-Day Scottsdale Mountain Bike Tour

Half-Day Scottsdale Mountain Bike Tour

Get off the beaten track and explore the wonders of the Sonoran Desert by bike with this guided half-day ride through the Valley of the Sun. Pedal through the scenic McDowell Mountains along a trail selected to suit your skill level, covering more ground than on foot and taking in the unique flora and fauna of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve along the way.

2 to 3 hours
Free Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Awesome Stand Up Paddleboarding Adventure in a Sonoran Desert Oasis

Awesome Stand Up Paddleboarding Adventure in a Sonoran Desert Oasis

Experience the beauty of giant saguaro cacti and other Sonoran Desert plants and animals on the rocky, mountainous shoreline of a clear, cool lake. Paddle through numerous coves, inlets and around islands in the 7,500-acre reservoir in the regional park, which covers 23,000 acres. - Paddle at your own speed. - Learn the nuances of paddle boarding with a SUP expert. - Adventure lasts 3 hours on the water. - Explore the geology, plants, animals of the Sonoran Desert. - Relax and swim in the comfortable, clear water. We approach every trip with fun in mind. Plus, our pro guides will show you the secrets of Lake Pleasant.

3 hours
Free Cancellation

Price varies by group size

1.5 hr SOLO -Private- Customized for you MTB tour Sonoran Desert.

1.5 hr SOLO -Private- Customized for you MTB tour Sonoran Desert.

You and your guide will set off alone into the Sonoran Desert on this approximately 1.5 hour mountain bike ride. You won’t have to deal with groups or other riders. It will be just you and your guide, navigating the desert trails outside of Scottsdale. Your bike, helmet, gloves, and snacks are all provided, so you just need to show up ready to ride.

2 hours
Free Cancellation

2 hr -STUNNING AZ SUNSET MTB -Families, groups in AZ-seasonal.

2 hr -STUNNING AZ SUNSET MTB -Families, groups in AZ-seasonal.

Suitable for all experience levels, this private cycling journey lets you explore the Sonoran Desert by Marin Performance Hardtail Mountain Bike. Helmet, gloves, bottled water, and snacks are included, so you can simply show up and enjoy the ride. Get hands-on support from a medically-trained cycling guide. Tours are timed to coincide with the sunset, so sublime views are guaranteed.

2 hours
Free Cancellation

1/2 Day Mountain bike-ENJOY THE RIDE or SHRED it. Sonoran Desert.

1/2 Day Mountain bike-ENJOY THE RIDE or SHRED it. Sonoran Desert.

Spend some time in the great outdoors and explore the Sonora Desert by mountain bike. Alongside a private guide, zip through the Valley of the Sun on two wheels and take in the beautiful views. No matter your riding experience or your age, this tour has something for everyone to enjoy.

3 hours
Free Cancellation

SOLO MTB RIde 1/2 day of epic fun- Expert guide custom trails.

SOLO MTB RIde 1/2 day of epic fun- Expert guide custom trails.

If you’re stopping over in Scottsdale and want to mountain bike in the Sonoran Desert, this half day desert mountain bike adventure is for you. All your gear will be provided, including a 2019 bike, water bottle, healthy snacks for all diets, helmet, gloves, a variety of pedals to choose from, and a backpack to borrow. Go solo, or go with a guide- your choice.

3 to 4 hours
Free Cancellation

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What's the best way to experience McDowell Sonoran Preserve?

A:

The best ways to experience McDowell Sonoran Preserve are:

Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
2 Hour Self Guided E-bike Rental
Private Scottsdale Day Hiking Tour
Scottsdale Desert Classic Hiking Adventure

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