Private Scottsdale Day Hiking Tour: McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Walk among saguaro cactus and desert overlooks on a moderate trail built for mixed abilities

A private guided hike through McDowell Sonoran Preserve near Scottsdale follows the Gateway loop trail, a moderate route that climbs into desert hills for views of saguaro cactus, mountain ridges and the city below. You'll see desert plants, lizards and birds along the way, with the hike lasting three hours and suited to beginning and intermediate hikers.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hike McDowell Sonoran Preserve

• Hike Gateway loop trail
• View desert plants and cactus
• Observe desert lizards and birds
• Enjoy mountain and city views

The experience

The Gateway loop trail winds through the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, starting from the foothills and climbing into the hills where the desert opens up. You move through stands of saguaro cactus and other desert plants, with sweeping views across the landscape and overlook points where the city comes into sight. The route is moderate in difficulty, which means steady climbing but nothing technical. The kind of hike where you're working but not scrambling.

A live guide leads the way and points out what you're seeing: the different cacti and desert flora, the birds and lizards that move through the scrub, the way the terrain changes as you gain elevation. The hike takes three hours total. You'll carry a day pack, and the guide provides water and snacks along the way. This is a private tour, so it's just your group and the guide, which means the pace can adjust if someone needs to slow down or wants to linger at a viewpoint.

The trail suits beginning to intermediate hikers with at least a moderate level of fitness. You're climbing but the grade is steady rather than steep. Service animals are welcome. Public transportation options exist nearby if you need them for getting to the trailhead.

What’s included

Day pack, water and snacks for your hike.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 07:00

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (5 and older) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by DukOUT Adventures

Is this one for you?This private tour works best if you want to hike at your own group's pace without coordinating with strangers, and if you prefer a guide who can adjust the timing and focus based on what your group finds interesting along the way.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

What kind of desert plants and animals will I see on the Gateway loop trail?

The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is home to saguaro cactus and other desert plants, along with desert lizards and birds that are commonly spotted during the hike. The guide will point out what you encounter as you move through the landscape.

How difficult is the Gateway loop trail for someone who doesn't hike often?

The Gateway loop is a moderate hike suited to beginning and intermediate hikers. You'll be climbing into the hills but the grade is steady, and the route is designed for groups of varying capabilities. A moderate level of physical fitness is needed.

What views will I get from the McDowell Sonoran Preserve?

The trail climbs into the hills and offers sweeping views across the desert, including mountain ridges and overlook points where you can see the city of Scottsdale below. The saguaro cactus and desert landscape frame the vistas throughout the hike.

How long does the hike take and what's provided?

The hike takes three hours. You'll carry a day pack, and water and snacks are included for the route.