5 Best Fall Hikes Near Scottsdale, Arizona

When fall arrives in Scottsdale, the triple-digit heat finally breaks and the desert becomes one of the best places in the Southwest to lace up your boots. Autumn hiking in Arizona means comfortable temperatures, golden light, and trails that range from family-friendly loops to serious summit climbs. If you’re hunting for the best fall hikes near Scottsdale, these five spots — all within about two hours — deliver breathtaking views and a real escape into nature.

1. Camelback Mountain (Echo Canyon & Cholla Trails)

• Distance from Scottsdale: ~20 minutes
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
• Trail length: Echo Canyon ~2.4 miles round trip; Cholla ~2.6 miles round trip

An iconic Phoenix-area climb. Both trails reward you with sweeping views of the city and desert, but the steep, rocky terrain makes for a tough ascent. Start early — it gets crowded, especially on weekends.

2. Piestewa Peak (Summit Trail)

• Distance from Scottsdale: ~25 minutes
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Trail length: ~2.2 miles round trip

In the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, this steep hike packs over 1,000 feet of elevation gain into just over a mile, with some scrambling near the top. The panoramic summit views make the effort worth it.

3. Superstition Mountains (Flatiron via Siphon Draw Trail)

• Distance from Scottsdale: ~50 minutes
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Trail length: ~6 miles round trip

One of the toughest hikes in the region. From the Siphon Draw Trailhead, you’ll cross rugged desert, scramble over rock, and climb more than 2,700 feet to the Flatiron summit. Best for experienced hikers — the views over the Superstition Wilderness are unforgettable.

4. Lost Dutchman State Park (Treasure Loop Trail)

• Distance from Scottsdale: ~50 minutes
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail length: ~2.4 miles round trip

At the base of the Superstitions, this approachable loop delivers big views of the towering cliffs and surrounding Sonoran Desert without the brutal elevation gain. A great pick for a scenic, lower-key fall hike.

5. McDowell Sonoran Preserve (Tom’s Thumb Trail)

• Distance from Scottsdale: ~40 minutes
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
• Trail length: ~4 miles round trip

Just outside Scottsdale, this trail climbs to a massive granite formation known as Tom’s Thumb, passing towering saguaros along the way. The 360-degree views take in the McDowell Mountains, Pinnacle Peak, and beyond.

Tips for Autumn Hiking Near Scottsdale

• Start early. Even in cooler months the desert sun is strong, and you’ll beat the crowds.
• Stay hydrated. Carry at least one liter of water per hour of hiking.
• Wear sun protection. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses go a long way year-round.
• Be prepared. Many trails are remote with spotty cell service — bring a map and tell someone your plan.

Prefer to Ride the Desert Instead of Hike It?

Not everyone in the group is up for a strenuous summit, and that’s okay. One of the easiest ways to enjoy the same stunning Sonoran Desert scenery — without the climb — is a guided desert ATV/UTV tour. You ride it, you don’t run it, so every age and fitness level can come along and still take in the fall light and big desert views. It’s a perfect complement to a weekend of hiking near Scottsdale.

Want to experience the autumn desert the easy way? Book a guided desert tour or call (480) 837-3966 — we’ll show you the Sonoran Desert at its best.