McDowell Sonoran Preserve

WARNING - DANGEROUS HEAT IS PREDICTED

The National Weather Service links to external site is predicting potentially all-time record breaking temperatures in the Scottsdale area. For your safety, please take necessary precautions before deciding to enter the Preserve. Avoid outdoor activities all together, or schedule them for the early morning hours. Drink plenty of water before and during your activity, and wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing. And please leave your dog at home, as they are not able to cool themselves by sweating and can quickly be overtaken by the heat. We appreciate the community’s devotion and support of the Preserve, but it might be better to spend the next few days indoors, or in the pool.

The Preserve closes at 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 4
The Preserve will close at 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 4, as a safety precaution. With the focus on fireworks for this holiday, dry summer conditions and extreme heat, the early closure helps protect this precious natural resource. You must exit the Preserve before the gates are closed at 3 p.m. If you don’t, you will need to call the Scottsdale Police Department at 480-312-5000 to be let out. Violators are subject to citation per S.R.C. 21-12(b)(7, 11, 23) links to external site

. Fireworks and smoking are STRICTLY PROHIBITED in all areas of the Preserve, including parking lots. The Preserve will reopen at 4:52 a.m. on Wednesday, July 5.

Powerline construction underway in McDowell Sonoran Preserve's northern region. Arizona Public Service (APS) is building an overhead 69 KV powerline within the power transmission easement. Trail closures will occur at various locations this summer along the route of the new powerline. View current trail closures and access restrictions.

Temporary Rock Climbing Closure - North Face of Tom's Thumb
Beginning on February 1, 2017, the northern face of Tom’s Thumb is temporarily closed to public access to protect sensitive birds of prey in that area. THE TOM’S THUMB TRAIL REMAINS OPEN. Please see the flyer for more information.

The Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a large, permanently protected, sustainable desert habitat.

Trail Maps & Trailheads

The Preserve has an interconnected network of non-motorized multi-use trails (hike/bike/horse) accessed from multiple trailhead locations.

TRAIL MAPS | TRAILHEAD LOCATIONS

Hours & Rules

The Preserve is open everyday, sunrise to sunset, free of charge. All trailheads open and close at specific times throughout the year.

Please observe all rules and regulations links to external site including no alcohol, smoking or fires.

Dogs

Dogs in the Preserve are a privilege. If you bring your dog it is your responsibility to follow the rules: Dogs must be on hand held leash, no longer than 6 feet at all times. Waste must be pick up immediately and either disposed of in a trash container or carried with you until you reach a trash container. Loose or bagged waste on the trail is prohibited. Please help us keep our trails open to our four-legged friends by following these rules. Don't forget to consider the temperature for your dog's safety. Dogs can not deal with heat as well as people. Sadly, every year we have situations where dogs die in the Preserve. The typical recommendation is if it is over 90 degrees at anytime in your hike, it's too hot for a dog. There are breeds that are even more sensitive as well as older, heavier dogs or young puppies.

Permits

Permits are required for special activities and all commercial and organizational events including photography and filming. Please fill out a request form to begin the process. It typically takes 2 to 3 weeks for a permit to be issued. Call 480-312-7013 for more information or read the Preserve's Special Use Guidelines. (PDF)

Guided Hikes and Events

For information on guided hikes of Scottsdale's Preserve, visit the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. links to external site