The best running trails around Scottdale

Scottsdale offers a wide variety of running experiences, with over 140 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy jogs to more challenging trails, catering to all fitness levels.

Jogging in Scottsdale primarily features diverse desert landscapes, including the iconic Sonoran Desert with its saguaro cacti and unique flora. You'll find trails winding through mountains like the McDowell Mountains, past granite peaks and rock formations, and along urban greenbelts and canal paths. The terrain varies from well-maintained dirt trails to paved multi-use paths.

Yes, Scottsdale has several options suitable for families. The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is an excellent choice, offering an 11-mile paved path that meanders through parks, past lakes, and alongside golf courses, providing a peaceful and scenic environment. Many sections within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve also offer easier, less strenuous trails perfect for a family outing.

For those seeking a more rigorous workout, Scottsdale offers several challenging options. The Tom's Thumb Trailhead within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is known for its significant elevation gain and leads to a distinctive granite formation. Additionally, Camelback Mountain's Echo Canyon and Cholla trails provide demanding ascents with rewarding panoramic views of the city and desert.

Many of Scottsdale's popular running routes are designed as loops. For example, the Suspension bridge – Candler Lake loop from Decatur is a moderate 6.0-mile trail, and the Deepdene Park loop from Decatur offers a scenic 6.7-mile experience. The Gateway Loop Trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is another popular moderate 4.4-mile loop with breathtaking desert views.

Scottsdale's trails offer numerous scenic views. You can enjoy expansive desert landscapes and mountain vistas from trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, including the Stone Mountain Summit. Pinnacle Peak Park provides spectacular views of the Sonoran Desert and rugged granite formations. For urban scenery, the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt offers views of parks and lakes, while the Arizona Canal Path provides unique perspectives along the waterway. The Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail is also a notable highlight.

The running community highly rates Scottsdale's trails, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews on komoot. Runners frequently praise the diverse terrain, from serene desert paths to urban greenbelts, and the well-maintained nature of the trails. The stunning natural beauty, especially the Sonoran Desert and mountain views, is often highlighted as a major draw.

While Scottsdale is in a desert environment, you can find routes that incorporate water features. The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt runs alongside lakes and canals, offering a refreshing element to your run. The Small Cascade loop from North Decatur is a moderate route that features a cascade, providing a unique natural attraction.

The best time for jogging in Scottsdale is typically during the cooler months, from late fall through spring (October to April). The consistent sunshine and mild temperatures make for ideal running conditions. Summer months can be very hot, so early morning or late evening runs are recommended, and always carry plenty of water.

Many trails in Scottsdale are dog-friendly, but rules can vary by location. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve generally allows leashed dogs on most trails. The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is also a popular spot for runners with dogs. It's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out, and ensure your dog is on a leash and you carry waste bags.

Yes, Scottsdale offers options for longer runs. The Arizona Canal Path is a long multi-use trail that traverses Scottsdale, providing both dirt and paved sections for an extended running experience. Within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, you can connect various trails to create longer routes, offering many miles of continuous running through the desert landscape.

For beginners or those looking for a relaxed run, the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is an excellent choice with its mostly flat, paved paths. Many of the trails within the Brown's Ranch Trail System in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve also offer gentler inclines and well-maintained surfaces, perfect for an easier introduction to desert running.