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Scottsdale, Arizona

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

Top Running Spots in and near Scottsdale

  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Hole in the Rock

    3.6
    0.27 mi / 200 ft gain
    Papago Park is located right next to the Phoenix Zoo. The park is known for its rock formations and short hiking / running trails. The main attraction, the Hole in the Rock, at the top of the short trail, is a great place to take pictures as it is one of the highest points in the area and it off...
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  • Phoenix, Arizona

    Hike the West Park Loop Trail in Papago Park

    4.4
    4 mi
    This trail begins from the parking lot on the west side of Galvin Parkway. To the east of the parking lot is a single track, dirt trail that heads north towards the big buttes. It continues counterclockwise around the big butte and heads south around the smaller butte. It continues west around th...
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  • Glendale, Arizona

    Run at Thunderbird Park

    5.0
    2 mi / 475 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 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

    Hidden Valley Trail Via Mormon Trail

    3.63 mi / 863 ft gain
    Hidden Valley Trail Via Mormon Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a river located near Phoenix, Arizona.
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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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  • 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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  • Apache Junction, Arizona

    Camp at Lost Dutchman State Park

    4.8
    Lost Dutchman State Park is located near the Superstition Mountains in central Phoenix, about 40 miles from Phoenix. There is a $7 day use fee to enter the park, which is waived if you’re camping ($15/night). The park offers 134 campsites, each with a picnic table, barbeque grill, and fire pit, a...
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  • Apache Junction, Arizona

    Treasure Loop via Jacob's Crosscut Trail

    3.78 mi / 620 ft gain
    Starting Treasure Loop from Jacob's Crosscut offers a slight variation on Treasure Loop as well as ~1.5 miles if you're looking for a little extra distance. This trail is dog friendly on-leash and is used by hikers and runners. 
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  • Morristown, Arizona

    Hike the Wild Burro Trail

    4 mi / 112 ft gain
    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 ...
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  • Apache Junction, Arizona

    Hike the Dutchman's Second Canyon Loop

    5.0
    16 mi
    To get to the trail head, drive past Lost Dutchman State Park on the 88 and then take the dirt road (on your right) with arrows leading you to First Water Trail Head.  There is an outhouse at the trailhead, so I suggest visiting it before you begin this hike.  I also started this hike about an ho...
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  • Apache Junction, Arizona

    Hike Black Mesa Loop

    4.5
    9 mi
    From First Water Trailhead, a short walk east brings you to the junction of the Dutchman trail and the Second Water trail.  If you follow the Dutchman trail to the right you'll be heading southeast for a while, catching glimpses of Weaver's Needle in the distance.  You can complete the loop going...
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  • Morristown, Arizona

    Yavapai Point Trail

    5.0
    3.08 mi / 525 ft gain
    Yavapai Point Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near New River, Arizona.
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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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  • Goodyear, Arizona

    Hike Estrella Mountain's Baseline Trail

    4.0
    2.4 mi / 259 ft gain
    Baseline Trail is a 2.4 mile moderately trafficked loop trail. This trail features lovely wild flowers and is rated as intermediate. You can use this trail not just for hiking but you can also use the trail for running as well as mountain biking. On the trail you are allowed to bring your furry f...
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  • Queen Creek, Arizona

    Hike the Dynamite and Goldmine Loop

    5.0
    4.7 mi / 773 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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