Tours/Scottsdale/Sonoran Desert Guided Hike
Viator · group up to 12 pax

Sonoran Desert Guided Hike

5.0(22)Scottsdale1 hour
VIATOR5.0(9)TRIPADVISOR5.0(13)

Description

Our guided hiking trips are designed to be more than a simple nature walk while still accessible to a wide range of ability so that individuals of modest fitness levels, as well as more active ones, will enjoy themselves. All of the trails where we lead guided hikes have been chosen not only for their scenic beauty but also their accessibility, safety, and low volume of visitors. Combined, these factors afford our guests an unforgettable Sonoran Desert experience. Our most popular hiking routes are in Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, where a large variety of trails are available to accommodate all levels of hikers. Other hiking locations are available.

Tour Options

Fall/Spring
  • 8am, 11am, 2pm Departures: Meets at trailhead at selected tour time
Summer
  • 7:00am: Meets at trailhead at 7:00am

Highlights

Bottled water
Professional safety-certified guide (1:8 guide to guest ratio)
Snacks

What's included

Included
Bottled water
Professional safety-certified guide (1:8 guide to guest ratio)
Snacks
Not included
Clothing – Comfortable, weather appropriate athletic clothing – shorts and a t-shirt, long sleeves are recommended on cooler mornings.
Shoes – Close-toed athletic shoes (sneakers)
Sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, lip balm, medications, hat, etc.
Guide gratuities are optional, but appreciated.

Traveller Ratings

5.0
22 reviews
5
22
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0

Important Information

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • We require solo-travelers to pay the minimum of the 2-person price. If you are a solo traveler and would like to be added on to a pre-formed group for this tour, please mention this upon booking.

Reviews(22)

I
ImaPickyTraveller
March 15, 2026
Nice hike!

This hike was just the right distance and right amount of time for my family. The scenery was fantastic, and our guide, Steve, was very helpful and knowledgable, and made sure we stayed hydrated and comfortable.

Operator response

Glad to hear the hike hit the mark for your family. Steve is a great guide so we're also glad to hear that he made your experience even more special. We'll pass along the kind words. Please visit us again in the future!

J
Jim_H
March 8, 2026
Lost Dog Wash Trail

Had a great hike with Ken, a very knowledgeable and experienced guide with a wealth of knowledge of the local flora and fauna. Hike itself was moderate in distance and elevation, about 5 miles in under 3 hrs. Highly recommend.

Operator response

We're glad Ken was able to make your hiking experience great. Thanks for sharing your experience!

M
Magdalene_B
November 25, 2025
Must-Do Hike with Amazing Guide

My mom and I had an absolute blast with our wonderful guide, Jim. He thoughtfully tailored the hike to our abilities, checking in with us throughout, and shared his extensive knowledge of desert flora/fauna and indigenous and Arizona history. He provided and carried multiple bottles of water and snacks for us and answered all our questions with stories and fun facts. I can’t recommend this company highly enough for a family-friendly experience introducing you to views, stories, and history of the gorgeous Sonora Desert and McDowell Mountains. Thank you, Jim!!

Operator response

Thank you for your wonderful review! We are so glad you and your mom had a great time with Jim. He is truly one of a kind and we love how he brings the desert to life with his knowledge, care, and passion for Arizona history, flora, and fauna. We are grateful to have him on our team and will be sure to share your kind words. We look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable adventure in the Sonoran Desert and McDowell Mountains.

K
K5694YVjasonp
May 8, 2025
Discovering the Sonoran Desert with Larry’s Expert Guidance

My tour guide, Larry, was incredibly insightful and knowledgeable about the history and landscape of the Sonoran Desert. I learned so much throughout the experience—it was both educational and enjoyable

Operator response

Thank you very much for the kind words! We'll pass this along to Larry. He'll be happy to hear that he was able to make your experience so memorable. We hope you'll visit us again int he future!

5
571sandys
May 6, 2023
Fun afternoon hiking tour.

Excellent trip . Kathy was knowledgeable and interesting. Snacks and water were nice extras. Easy hike and great views from the top.

H
Heather_N
April 6, 2023
Stress-free family hike with Ed

Our small family (teen to adult) enjoyed a great hike with Ed. He correctly determined which trail would be a little challenging but also within reach given our varying fitness levels. He clearly loves sharing the desert with others, and had a lot of knowledge about the area and the flora and fauna. He also knew the where to take great pictures. Having Ed as our guide made this a stress-free experience!

7
735cherb
November 22, 2022
A must do in Scottsdale

Booked this tour for myself and two teenage daughters. So glad we did. Denny, our guide for the day, made the 4 mile hike (2 miles each way) so enjoyable with his knowledge of the area, plants and history. Much more fun than doing it on our own. And he carried all the water and snacks which was a plus and much appreciated.

C
Chante_J
October 9, 2022
We enjoyed the hike on...

We enjoyed the hike on the McDowell preserve. Our tour guide Bob was great and knowledge! He allowed us to pace ourselves and had snacks/water. I would definitely do again!

M
MmMirandaR
October 9, 2022
Fun time

Bob was amazing! Great time. Was longer than expected- plan to be hiking for 3 hours. Great views. Bob had ice cold water and snacks for us which was such a nice touch.

P
phyllis_E
May 8, 2022
Mother, Daughter Trip!

Hiking tour through the desert 🏜 with my daughter. Learning more information about desert 🌵 life in Arizona.

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