The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Scottsdale

The Lost Dog Wash and Ringtail Loop offers an easy hiking experience through classic Sonoran Desert scenery. You will find yourself surrounded by Saguaro, Barrel, and Cholla cacti, with expansive views of the McDowell Mountains. The route is 2.2 miles (3.6 km) long, gaining 244 feet (74 metres) in elevation, and takes about 59 minutes to complete. This easy trail provides a quick escape into nature, allowing you to enjoy the desert's unique atmosphere. You can spot the Taliesin Overlook, which provides a distinct perspective of Frank Lloyd Wright's historic Taliesin West.

Planning your hike on this loop is straightforward, as the Lost Dog Wash Access Area provides ample parking. You will also find restrooms and water facilities available at the trailhead. For the most comfortable experience, consider hiking between October and April to avoid the extreme summer heat. If you plan to visit outside these months, an early morning start is highly recommended. Be aware that the trail can become quite popular, especially during weekends, so plan accordingly.

This route is located within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a protected area dedicated to preserving the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. The preserve ensures you experience the desert's natural beauty and diverse plant life. The views extend beyond the immediate trail, offering glimpses of the surrounding valleys and the city receding into the distance. It is a great option for a relatively quick outdoor activity close to urban areas.

Explore the Desert Parks Trail Loop, a moderate hike that immerses you in the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert. You will encounter varied terrain, from unpaved paths winding through desert flora to sections with meandering boardwalks, offering distinct perspectives of the landscape. As you hike, look for towering saguaro cacti and enjoy sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains, with distant views of Phoenix from elevated points. This route covers 7.6 miles (12.2 km) and includes an elevation gain of 813 feet (248 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 24 minutes to complete.

For a comfortable experience on the Desert Parks Trail Loop, plan your visit between October and April to avoid the intense summer heat. The Gateway Trailhead serves as a convenient starting point, providing ample parking, restrooms, and an information center to assist you before you set out. While permits are not usually required for this hike, choosing cooler months for your adventure will make your time on the trail much more enjoyable and safer. Consider an early morning start to beat the midday sun, even in cooler seasons.

This trail offers a substantial desert adventure within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, showcasing the diverse natural features of the area. You will gain unique perspectives of the Sonoran Desert ecosystem, observing its resilient plant life and the vastness of the landscape. The route is an excellent way to connect with the natural environment and appreciate the distinct geology and atmosphere that make this region so special.

Embark on the Chaparral Lake Loop for an easy hike that offers a refreshing escape into nature. This short route spans 0.9 miles (1.5 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 12 feet (4 metres), making it perfect for a quick outing that takes approximately 22 minutes. As you walk, you'll enjoy pleasant views of the man-made Chaparral Lake, its surface often reflecting the Arizona sky, alongside lush greenery, shady trees, and a xeriscape garden showcasing local desert plants. Keep an eye out for various bird species, including ducks, geese, and even blue herons, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

Located conveniently within Chaparral Park in Scottsdale, this trail is easily accessible and offers ample parking. The park itself is well-equipped with a variety of facilities, including playgrounds for children, dedicated dog parks, and inviting picnic areas, making it an ideal destination for families or anyone looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. You can comfortably plan your visit knowing that amenities are readily available for a pleasant day out.

The Chaparral Lake Loop is a notable part of the larger Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, which provides seamless access and continuous travel through convenient underpasses. This connection highlights its role as a vital green space within the urban landscape, offering a peaceful retreat from city life. It's a fantastic option if you're seeking a brief, accessible trail that combines natural beauty with urban convenience, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a moment of quiet reflection.

Embark on an easy hike along the Gateway Trail, a 2.1 miles (3.3 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 1 minute to complete. You will gain 664 feet (203 metres) in elevation as you explore the classic Sonoran Desert landscape. The path is rocky, starting with a gentle climb that turns into a steady ascent with uneven steps. Look for iconic multi-arm saguaros, teddy-bear cholla, and palo verde trees along the way. From the scenic viewpoint at the Gateway Saddle, you can enjoy panoramic views of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and Scottsdale.

The Gateway Trailhead provides convenient amenities for your visit. You will find free parking, restrooms, shade ramadas, and water fountains available. The trail is also dog-friendly, so you can bring your canine companion along for the adventure. Consider starting your hike at sunrise for particularly striking views of the desert landscape. This timing also helps avoid the midday heat.

This route offers a true immersion into the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, showcasing its unique ecosystem. The desert comes alive with diverse flora, including the distinctive multi-arm saguaros that define the region. The trail provides a clear perspective of the preserve's vastness, extending views towards Thompson Peak. It is an excellent option for a quick outdoor escape into nature.