So, let me guess, you’re planning a trip to Phoenix? Fancy meeting you here! There’s no doubt in all your online searching that you’ll see hiking Camelback Mountain on everyone's top ten lists of the best things to do near Phoenix. I’m not here to start fights but...I found Scottsdale’s best hike...and it isn’t Camelback.
Tucked just 35 minutes north of Old Town Scottsdale, Tom’s Thumb trailhead is is only the beginning of an already stunning panoramic mountainscape. The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is a stunning natural area swallowed by massive rounded boulders and saguaro cacti’ scattered along the horizon. Camelback’s view? Dust and a silhouette of the cityscape down in the valley. Again - not an attack - just a statement.
Tom’s Thumb trail truly is a dreamy, difficult hike that feels like a true escape into the Arizona desert. Next time you’re looking for the amazing hike around Phoenix to get your heart rate pumping (and your booze a burnin’), consider making this quick trip to explore the great outdoors.
Fast Facts about Hiking to Tom’s Thumb
Located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale, AZ
4 Mile Round Trip, Out & Back
1,236 ft Elevation Gain
Rated as Difficult on All Trails
No Drinking Water on Site, There are Bathrooms
Free to Park and Hike
What to Expect on Your Hike at Tom’s Thumb
This Scottsdale hike is known for its difficulty and beauty in such close proximity to the Phoenix area. For those with a few hours to spare, a hike to Tom’s Thumb is the perfect after-work escape or half-day adventure while visiting the area. The four-mile out (or should I say up) and back trek is a steep one. With over 1,000 feet in elevation gain, this climb will give your legs and booty a firm reminder of who's boss.
With smooth, massive boulders reminiscent of Joshua Tree, pictures of Tom’s Thumb trail truly don’t do the views justice. Despite being as popular as it is, you still can maintain a sense of total calm, especially during off-hours like weekdays or early mornings to avoid the crowds. For those visiting Scottsdale for a wedding celebration of some shape or form, a trek to Tom’s Thumb is a great way to do something active and fun that isn’t spending money at the bar.
For those who find themselves exhausted hiking the switchbacks, there are a few different lookout points with stunning views of the far-off mountain ranges where you could turn around and still feel accomplished and fulfilled with Instagrammable content for days.
Weather & Water
One of the most important things to bring with you for this hike is water. I hiked to Tom’s Thumb in February when the weather was in the high 70s and breezy but I still had a 32-ounce water with me in case. There is NO drinking water at the trailhead and minimal shade coverage along the hike so plenty of water and sunscreen are musts.
ROCK CLIMBING
Throughout the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, you can find a ton of seemingly incredible rock climbing access points to get you sweating in another fun format. I’d imagine that the smooth boulders make for a tricky but perfect climb.
Parking
Another lovely element of this Scottsdale hike is plentiful free parking with an overflow lot onsite as a backup. Parking is free.
Other Incredible Arizona Hikes Near Phoenix (and Far)
For those hikers who are trying to get a serious outdoorsy fix while traveling around Scottsdale or Arizona as a whole, check out the Superstition Mountains, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon for some pretty incredible hikes that are sure to please. Explore more of the most amazing Arizona hikes (by region) here to get exploring.