Fort McDowell, Arizona

Looking for the best running in Fort McDowell? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Fort McDowell. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Running Spots in and near Fort McDowell

  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Shadow Mountain Loop

    2.07 mi / 600 ft gain
    Shadow Mountain Loop is a loop trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Phoenix, Arizona.
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Quartz Ridge Trail

    4.5
    2.29 mi / 509 ft gain
    Quartz Ridge in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve (also known as Trail 8A) is a great escape getaway trail that can be done as a single track or combined with many intersecting trails. It is a very popular trail for hikers, trail runners, pet walkers, sky gawkers and more! The trailhead sits in a sm...
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Ruth Hamilton Trail

    3.32 mi / 981 ft gain
    Ruth Hamilton Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Phoenix, Arizona.
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Mojave Connector Trail #202

    2.18 mi / 820 ft gain
    The best starting point to access this hike is parking at the Mojave Picnic Area and heading up the Mojave Trail #200. At .4 miles, you will hit the junction and stating point for the Mojave Connector Trail. Head left at the saddle and begin a rapid ascent up switchbacks to a small flattened summ...
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Piestewa Peak Summit

    4.4
    2.25 mi / 1050 ft gain
    Piestewa Peak, formerly known as Squaw Peak and conveniently located in the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area, is a relatively short hike that yields impressive views of the city and is a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Piestewa Peak is a popular spot for locals who do not want to drive or...
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    North Mountain Trail

    4.7
    1.42 mi / 571 ft gain
    Beginning from the start of the trail on 7th Street, this short hike can be a good quick workout that offers great views of the greater Phoenix area.  Be aware that this hike is a fairly steep climb 600 feet to the top.   Once you reach the summit of North Mountain you'll find great views of the...
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Shaw Butte Trail

    5.0
    4.22 mi / 866 ft gain
    The Shaw Butte Trail is a short loop hike that leads you to the top of Shaw Butte in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve.  Beginning from the trailhead on Central Avenue, The first section of trail follows a steady uphill service road to the top.  Near the top you'll find an array of towers and a good...
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  • Cave Creek, Arizona

    Hike the Go John Trail

    5.0
    5.6 mi / 804 ft gain
    As you park at the trailhead, you have the option to take this trail in either direction. I recommend that you travel north, which will immediately provide 0.75 miles of elevation gain. You will then reach a pass with panoramic views of the Tonto National Forest. A bench in this area provides the...
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Apache Wash Loop Trail

    4.0
    5.79 mi / 541 ft gain
    This hike begins at the Apache Wash Trailhead where you will find restrooms and a covered rest area. This loop is simple to follow and offers various shortcuts along with an access to an optional summit climb.  The loop begins from the north-east end of the parking lot near the restrooms. Turn l...
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Hike Marcos de Niza Ridgeline / National Loop

    5.0
    2.8 mi / 640 ft gain
    This is somewhat of a hidden gem in South Mountain Park, the largest municipal park in the United States, even though it's right there for all to see. The best way to take advantage of this trail is to attack the ridgeline with an intense hiking pace or trail run, connecting it to the National Tr...
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Acer Summit Via Mormon Trail

    2.46 mi / 758 ft gain
    Acer Summit Via Mormon Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see wildflowers located near Phoenix, Arizona.
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  • Glendale, Arizona

    Arrowhead Point Loop

    2.37 mi / 492 ft gain
    The Arrowhead Point Loop in Arizona is a 2.4-mile trail located in Thunderbird Conservation Park near Phoenix, Arizona. This trail offers a moderately challenging route with rewarding desert views, particularly at sunrise or sunset. The loop trail features rocky terrain and mild elevation gain,...
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  • Glendale, Arizona

    Thunderbird Park 3 Peaks Loop

    5.0
    7.31 mi / 1417 ft gain
    This is a great spot to go for a quick run or a short hike if you're in North Phoenix. Thunderbird park is easily accessible with free entry and a number of picnic areas. There are 3 main hills with a variety of trail options to hike up/around each. From the top you'll find a nice view of valley...
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Hike Holbert Trail to Dobbins Lookout

    4.0
    4.1 mi / 1135 ft gain
    Dobbins lookout is a popular high point in South Mountain Park that offers views of the entire Phoenix area.  It's accessible by road or by trail with no entry fee.  Consider going in the evening for the best views.If you plan to hike to the top, the shortest route is the Holbert trail.  Take a l...
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  • Queen Creek, Arizona

    Dynamite and Goldmine Loop

    5.0
    4.52 mi / 837 ft gain
    This trail is a moderately-rated hike. It is used for a variety of activities including hiking, mountain biking, running, and walking. To access the trail, it is important to note that there is a $7 cash parking fee, so be prepared! The beginning of the trail is the most challenging part as it ...
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Lost Ranch Ruins Trail to Lost Ranch Mines Trail Loop

    5.0
    4.97 mi / 1184 ft gain
    Lost Ranch Ruins Trail to Lost Ranch Mines Trail Loop is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Phoenix, Arizona.
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