Overview
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a vast desert preserve offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and stunning desert landscapes. It's a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The preserve protects over 30,000 acres of Sonoran Desert and offers a unique opportunity to experience the region's natural beauty and wildlife.
Location
Address
18333 North Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale, Arizona
Neighborhood: McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Coordinates
33.689200, -111.821900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
November to March
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Warm days, cool nights
- • Wildflowers
- • Desert blooms
summer
Extreme heat, monsoon season
- • Stargazing
- • Monsoon rains
autumn
Warm to cool, monsoon remnants
- • Fall colors
- • Cooler weather
winter
Cool days, chilly nights
- • Wildlife spotting
- • Clear skies
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check trail conditions
- Bring plenty of water
- Wear appropriate clothing
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high (depending on trail)
- • Heat exhaustion
- • Dehydration
- • Sunburn
Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor center
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, appropriate for hiking, Moisture-wicking clothing, sturdy footwear, Hiking shoes or boots, Open-toed shoes, Inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but popular hikes may have reservations
- • Official website
- • Varies by tour
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Size: 25 MB
Features: Trail maps, Hike descriptions, Parking information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center
Charging Stations: Not specified
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Scottsdale Airport (SCF)
Distance: 15 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique desert landscape, great for hiking and wildlife spotting
Historical Significance: Protected land with significant cultural and ecological value
Insider Tips
- Early morning is best for wildlife spotting
- Weekdays are less crowded
- Check for guided tours for a deeper experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try local coffee at the visitor center
- • Ask rangers for trail recommendations
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Tom's Thumb Trail
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Capture the iconic rock formation
Result: Stunning desert landscape
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Museum
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Performing Arts
Old Town Scottsdale
Distance: 3 km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Shopping/Dining
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Start early to avoid heat"
- "Bring plenty of water"
- "Check for guided tours"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
8
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
Free