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Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers an array of fabulous desert trails and award-winning facilities. The Preserve is unique geologically and home to stunning geography, lush cacti forests and diverse wildlife. Now is a great time to explore the 30,580 acres of Sonoran Desert.
- Electric Bikes Prohibited
- Rattlesnakes in The Preserve
- Guided Hikes
- Hours
- Dogs
- Permits
- Possession of Firearms in The Preserve
Electric bikes are not allowed in the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Electric Scooters, motorized bicycles, electric bicycles or any other non-self-propelled vehicle or device (excluding motorized wheelchairs)are prohibited on Preserve trails pursuant to Chapter 21 and Section 17-86(a)of the Scottsdale Revised Code. Exceptions may be approve...
Rattlesnakes are an important part of the Preserve ecosystem and are a protected species. The Preserve is a wild area inhabited by a variety of wild animals, which are inherently unpredictable. While you visit their natural habitat, it is important to understand these tips to assure a safe experience.
For information on guided hikes of Scottsdale's Preserve, visit the Natural Resources Coordinator GuidedHikes or theMcDowell Sonoran Conservancy.
The Preserve is open everyday, sunrise to sunset,free of charge. All trailheads open and close atspecific timesthroughout the year. Please observe allrules andregulationsincluding no alcohol, smoking or fires.
Rules
Dogs in the Preserve are a privilege. If you bring your dog, it is your responsibility to follow the rules: 1. If it is over 90 degreesat any time in your hike, it's too hot for your dog. 2. Dogs must be on handheld leash, no longer than 6 feet at all times. 3. Waste must be pick up immediately and disposed of in a trash container or carried with you until you reach a trash container. 4. Loose or bagged waste on the trail is prohibited.
Heat Warning for Dog Owners
Dogs do not actually sweat. They exchange heat through panting and to a minor degree, through their feetpads. Additionally, our canine friends do not tolerate high environmental temperatures as well ashumans do.
Special Use
A Special Use Permit is required for special activities and organized events including professional photographyand filming, special events, weddings and other ceremonies, and community club activities such as group hikes and rides. Please fill out aspecial use permit request form to begin the process. It typically takes 7 to 10 business days for a permit tobe issued. Call480-312-7013 for more information or read the Preserve'sSpecial Use Guidelines.(PDF)
Guiding
Guiding is allowed in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve with a permit. Permits are granted through an application process held once a year.
According to laws of the State of Arizona and the City of Scottsdale, it is legal to possess guns in the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve, and to carry firearms openly or concealed without a permit. However, it isillegal to discharge firearms in the Scottsdale Preserve, except for purposes of self-defense or the defense of others, or as otherwi...
Explore a living treasure and make memories for a lifetime! Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve includes more than 30,500 contiguous acres. Annually, over one million people visit the Preserve wishing to connect with nature and experience its more than 225 miles of recreational trails.
Sunrise Peak is one of very few Preserve peaks with a trail to the top, from which you can see expansive views of the McDowell Mountains in all directions and beautiful granite formations. You will also see lots of spring wildflowers! This hike is excellent for fast exercise without the crowds. Roundtrip Distance 4 miles. Elevation Gain 1150 feet
All local trails remain open. We encourage you to visit the Fountain Hills Desert Botanical Garden and walk the Lake Overlook trail. You can enjoy longer hikes nearby in the Fountain Hills McDowell Mountain Preserve, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, and the McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
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Best Trails in McDowell Sonoran Preserve. 74,248 Reviews. Want to find the best trails in McDowell Sonoran Preserve for an adventurous hike or a family trip? AllTrails has 87 great trails for hiking and walking and more. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. Ready for your next hike or bike ride?
Nov 22, 2023 · The Largest Urban Preserve in the U.S. Is Hiding in Arizona — and It's 36 Times the Size of NYC's Central Park. Get out for some fresh air in America's largest urban preserve. By. Stacey...
