Glendale, Arizona

So to fully enjoy the theme of this hike, make sure to try and go right after a rain. But also know that since this is a pretty easy hike, you will won't be the only one there. This is also a great hike/ waterfall to do with someone that is new to desert hiking, since it is relatively easy and th...

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...

The Gateway Trailhead is one access point into the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in Scottsdale and is my favorite “Gateway” into the treasure trove of great trails and vistas in the McDowell Mountains. The Gateway Trailhead provides great accessibility for a quick hike or trail run at the end of t...

Hike along the shoreline of beautiful Lake Pleasant. This 4.0 mile out-and-back trail is worth its weight in beautiful views. The path is well maintained and perfect for beginner hikers who enjoy leisurely hikes while looking for wild burros. The Wild Burro trail starts with a small descent from ...

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...

Located just 30 minutes from the outskirts of Phoenix, AZ lies a 10,000 acre desert oasis known as Pleasant Lake Regional Park. This expansive body of water serves as a great opportunity to beat the heat of the central Arizona sun, while taking in the beauty of the vivid blue waters and surroundi...

Pinnacle Peak is a 3.8 mile out-and-back hike along a beautifully groomed trail with a moderate gain of ~1,000ft. This distinctive 600ft granite summit can be seen from most of the surrounding valley and offers spectacular views of the McDowell Mountains, iconic Four Peaks, Granite Mountain and t...

The Valley Vista trail is a short hike in Skyline Regional Park, located in the southern region of the White Tank Mountains west of Phoenix.  From the top you'll have a great view of the Estrella Mountain Range and the southwest valley.  For the most direct route, take the Turnbuckle trail.  This...

Named after a landslide that scientists say occurred over 500,000 years ago, this interpretive hiking trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a perfect easy outing for families and nature lovers alike.  It begins from the Tom's Thumb trailhead (shared parking lot), which is another beautiful hi...

The infamous “thumb” can be seen from most places in the valley – a white burst of rock jutting skyward out of the desert ridgeline.   The new Tom’s Thumb Trailhead in 2012 has nice restrooms and offers tons of information about the surrounding rock climbing areas, day hikes and desert knowledg...

V-easy. 20 feet. Start on the Tom's Thumb Trail about .1 mi. Then take the Mesquite canyon trail left (SE) for .2mi. It will connect with the Feldspar trail. Turn left (E) and continue on until you see the climber access sign. Continue on the well marked trail towards the Girlie Man climbing area...

This is a 100 foot 5.8 trad climb. Access the Hanging Garden's climbing area off of the Tom's Thumb Trail. About half way up the trail you will see signage for "Rock Climbing Access Route." On the sign you will see an arrow pointing towards Gardner's Wall. This is the direction you want to take. ...

5.9+ 3 bolt slab. About 65ft. To get there you will start on the Tom's Thumb Trail for about .1 mi. Then take the Mesquite canyon trail left (SE) for .2mi. It will connect with the Feldspar trail. Turn left (E) and continue on until you see the climber access sign. Continue on the well marked tra...

This is a 2 pitch 5.6 trad climb. About 130 feet in total. Access the Hanging Garden's climbing area off of the Tom's Thumb Trail. About half way up the trail you will see signage for "Rock Climbing Access Route." On the sign you will see an arrow pointing towards Gardner's Wall. This is the dire...

5.9 trad route. About 60ft. Can be set up as a Top Rope. To get there you will start on the Tom's Thumb Trail for about .1 mi. Then take the Mesquite canyon trail left (SE) for .2mi. It will connect with the Feldspar trail. Turn left (E) and continue on until you see the climber access sign. Cont...

Sunrise Peak, also known as Sunrise Trail, is located at the residential foothills of the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale, Arizona. The trail will start next to a residential neighborhood, but after about a quarter mile you'll be immersed in the pristine Sonoran Desert. The trail will lead you t...