McDowell Sonoran Preserve Tours and Activities
104 Reviews
Free admission
If there’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, McDowell Sonoran Preserve just might be it. With more than 30,000 acres, including the McDowell Mountains, visitors can hike it, bike it or even climb it.
With more than 120 miles of trails, picking which way to go can be tough, so ask the experts. Most mornings McDowell Sonoran Conservancy Pathfinders are on duty at the Brown's Ranch Trailhead, Gateway Trailhead, Lost Dog Wash Trailhead, Sunrise Trailhead and Tom’s Thumb Trailhead. Pathfinders have all sorts of information and suggestions to insure a fun, safe day on the trails.
Fit families will enjoy the way the Family Passport keeps everyone moving together. Scavenger hunts for animal tracks, rocks and other nature provided attractions can provide inspiration for hours of exploring. When you visit five Preserve trailheads (Gateway, Lost Dog, Sunrise, Tom’s Thumb and Brown’s Ranch) and get your passport stamped you’ll win a Preserve bandana.
18333 North Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale, Arizona, 85255
Tours and Activities to Experience McDowell Sonoran Preserve
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9 results
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Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert
36
Experience an incredible sunrise or sunset in the one-of-a-kind Sonoran Desert in Phoenix, Arizona, with a fun, experienced, local Mad Desert Trekking guide. Find out why Arizona's sunrises and sunsets are truly amazing.
Why should you book your Sonoran Desert sunrise or sunset hiking adventure with Mad Desert Trekking?
We approach every trip with fun in mind. Plus, our pro guides will show you the secrets of the area that few people know about.
We will provide everything you need for your hiking adventure, including:
- Use of backpacks
- Sunscreen
- Bottled water
- Sports drinks
- Trail snacks
- Plus, cold beverages after finishing your hike.
Our number one priority is your safety. We guarantee a safe, enjoyable and memorable Sonoran Desert experience.
…More
From
$125.00
Price varies by group size
From
$125.00
Price varies by group size
Private Group Sonoran Desert 1.5 Hour Mountain Bike Adventure
24
Immerse yourself in the dramatic scenery of the Sonoran Desert, and get up close and personal with the sights when you explore on two wheels, on this private mountain biking tour. Pick between morning and afternoon tour times, and make your own way to the departure point in Scottsdale. After grabbing your mountain bike, helmet, and other gear, follow your guide into the desert, and learn all about its wildlife, history, and more.
…More
From
$135.00
From
$135.00
Private Group Sonoran Desert Half Day Mountain Bike Adventure
19
Seeing the Sonoran desert on two wheels can be memorable. We have lots of options for any level of rider. If you have not been on a bike for a while don't worry we can help you rediscover that talent. If you are a road cyclist and or an intermediate and experienced mountain biker we have you covered too. We have a fleet of hard tail and full suspension mountain bikes for an enjoyable ride.
Our guides have many years and levels of experience on the mountain bike to show you a safe, fun and fantastic time. All bike tours include use of a Marin Performance Hardtail Mountain Bike, helmet, gloves, snacks, bottles of water, sunscreen and a professional, medically trained guide.
Pedal preference? No worries. And we love riders of all ages, so if the kids have joined you on your getaway to the Valley of the Sun, bring them along! As long as they can ride a bike, of course!
…More
From
$160.00
From
$160.00
Private Solo Sonoran Desert 1.5 Hour Mountain Bike Adventure
4
This tour is unique because it is a solo, private tour with you and your guide one on one. We will not add anyone to this tour. Safe, fun and all about the ride.
…More
From
$270.00
From
$270.00
Private Sunset Sonoran Desert Mountain Bike Adventure
4
You'll never forget a night ride on a mountain bike in the Sonoran Desert. Join us for our Sunset Mountain Bike Ride. We have lots of options for any level of rider. If you have not been on a bike for a while don't worry we can help you rediscover that talent. If you are a road cyclist and or an intermediate and experienced mountain biker we have you covered too. We have a fleet of hard tail and full suspension mountain bikes for an enjoyable ride.
Our guides have many years and levels of experience on the mountain bike to show you a safe, fun and fantastic time. All bike tours include use of a Marin Performance Hardtail Mountain Bike, helmet, gloves, snacks, bottles of water and a professional, medically trained guide.
Pedal preference? No worries. And, we love riders of all ages.
Start time subject to sunset time. Management will confirm start time.
…More
From
$145.00
From
$145.00
Private Solo Sonoran Half Day Desert Mountain Bike Adventure
4
This is a awesome way to see the Sonoran Desert if you love to ride mountain bike OR want to take it easy and spend quality time with our guides. This SOLO tour is great for those who are in town for a meeting and want to get it done.
Please note the cost of the tour does not include guide gratuity.
Thank you.
…More
From
$320.00
From
$320.00
Iconic Tom's Thumb Hiking Adventure in Scottsdale
3
Visit an iconic landmark in the Scottsdale Sonoran Preserve. See Geological features and well as flora and fauna that are unique to the Sonoran Desert. Amazing views of the McDowell Mountains and surrounding areas.
…More
From
$145.00
Price varies by group size
From
$145.00
Price varies by group size
Scottsdale Desert Classic Hiking Adventure
3
Experience the Scottsdale Classic Hiking Adventure in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. We’ll customize the hike to your mileage, terrain and grade preferences.
- Hike for about two hours.
- Explore the geology, plants, animals of the Sonoran Desert.
- Relax at an incredible viewpoint with trail snacks and beverages provided by - your guide.
- We approach every trip with fun in mind. Plus, our pro guides will show you secrets of the area that only a few know about.
- 2-3 hours on the trail
- Meet your guide at the trailhead
- Difficulty scale: Easy to strenuous—you choose the level!
We provide everything you need for your hiking adventure:
- Use of backpacks
- Sunscreen
- Bottled water
- Sports drinks
- Trail snacks
- Plus, cold beverages after finishing your hike.
Our number one priority is your safety. We guarantee a safe, enjoyable and memorable Sonoran Desert experience.
…More
From
$145.00
Price varies by group size
From
$145.00
Price varies by group size
Awesome Stand Up Paddleboarding Adventure in a Sonoran Desert Oasis
Experience the beauty of giant saguaro cacti and other Sonoran Desert plants and animals on the rocky, mountainous shoreline of a clear, cool lake. Paddle through numerous coves, inlets and around islands in the 7,500-acre reservoir in the regional park, which covers 23,000 acres.
- Paddle at your own speed.
- Learn the nuances of paddle boarding with a SUP expert.
- Adventure lasts 3 hours on the water.
- Explore the geology, plants, animals of the Sonoran Desert.
- Relax and swim in the comfortable, clear water.
We approach every trip with fun in mind. Plus, our pro guides will show you the secrets of Lake Pleasant.
…More
From
$160.00
Price varies by group size
From
$160.00
Price varies by group size
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