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"Preserve Connections" Tours

Take a FREE tour of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve!

In partnership with the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy the City of Scottsdale is offering for the third year, Preserve Connections, a seasonal tour program offered to Scottsdale residents who may not have direct access to visit, experience and learn more about the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.


Certified Conservancy Stewards will lead pre-registered participants on hikes that highlight Sonoran Desert flora and fauna.


As part of registration, participants will be transported by van to the Preserve.  Van departure time and location is listed below.

Hiker pickup location:
Granite Reef Senior Center
1700 N. Granite Reef

Times:
8 a.m. check-in
Noon/1 p.m. return time 
(approx. depending on length of hike)

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HIKE DATES & Descriptions  

Saturday, Dec. 15

Brown’s Ranch
Mild inclines only		 Learn about ranching on a 4-mile round trip to a former working ranch. Visit the corrals and the foundation of the old ranch house. See how evidence of cattle grazing persists long after the cattle are gone.
Sunday, Jan. 13 Ringtail Loop
Mild inclines only
(This Hike is Full)		 Learn about the animals of the Sonoran Desert and see fine examples of desert plants on this 2.5-mile hike.
Saturday, Jan. 26 Cactus Trail
A few steep places. Overall mild inclines		 Learn about the edible plants of the desert on this 3.2-mile hike.
Sunday, Feb. 10 Taliesin Overlook via the Lost Dog Trail
Short, sustained climb. Overall gradual grades 		Enjoy a 4-mile hike to a saddle overlooking the East Valley and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural complex.
Saturday, Feb. 23 Amphitheater Trail
Mild inclines only		 Geology hike - Learn about the composition of the McDowells and surrounding mountains on this 4.5-mile hike to an interesting rock formation.
Sunday, March 16 Balanced Rock
Mild inclines only
(This Hike is Full)		 Enjoy this 4.2-mile round trip hike to a striking rock formation.  See a wild juniper tree, a relic of an earlier era. If wildflowers are present, they will be identified and discussed.
 

Please Note:

None of these introductory hikes involve sustained climbs. However, the trails are rocky and irregular and may not be suitable for strollers or pets. Children must either walk or be carried. Please specify any need for disabilty related accommodations by calling (480) 312-3111.


Requirements

  • Participants must sign a McDowell Sonoran Conservancy waiver. 
  • Hikers should:
    • Wear sturdy, covered shoes/boots and hats.
    • Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses and energy snacks.     
  • Registration will be limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. 
  • For more information, call (480) 312-3111.

Hikes are led by experienced McDowell Sonoran Conservancy Stewards who are expert in desert subjects. Frequent stops will be made to admire and discuss surroundings. Questions are encouraged.


The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy (MSC) is a non-profit organization staffed almost entirely by volunteers. It advocates the land-conservation cause, conducts desert-education programs and helps maintain the city-owned McDowell Sonoran Preserve and state-trust-land areas that have been designated for preservation, but not yet acquired. To reach the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, call (480) 998-7971.

 

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