Iconic Tom's Thumb Guided Hiking Adventure, Scottsdale, Arizona

Adventure Highlights

Hike to Tom's Thumb — the most iconic landmark in Scottsdale, Arizona's famous McDowell Sonoran Preserve!

Spend your morning or afternoon on an expert-led hike to the famous 200-foot tall granite monolith called Tom’s Thumb in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve of Scottsdale, Arizona. A local guide from Mad Desert Trekking will greet you at the trailhead and hike with you through the incredible terrain of the Sonoran Desert and McDowell Mountain range.

Ascend the switchbacks and take in the incredible views of the Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, the largest city-owned preserve in the world. We will make our way up to the famous granite monolith called Tom’s Thumb. Hike the most-famous mountain trail in Scottsdale and take in fantastic views from five different overlooks as you hike higher and higher toward the big payoff—Tom’s Thumb.

Experience unique geological features, as well as native flora and fauna that are unique to the Sonoran Desert. Top out in the extraordinary, unworldly, upper-elevation boulder field and explore Scottsdale’s most-famous natural landmark—Tom’s Thumb—up close and personal. Once up top you will be able to expore the unique terrain around “The Thumb” and experience beautiful views of Scottsdale, Four Peaks, Valley of the Sun and the surrounding areas. 

Plus, explore a few little-known, “secret” areas!

Sky view

Adventure Details

  • Experience the energy of hiking through the Sonoran Desert, the most diverse desert in North America. We love this beautiful trail … and we know you will, too.
  • Visit Scottsdale’s most iconic landmark.
  • Roundtrip miles: 5 | Elevation gain: 1,236 feet | Maximum elevation: 3,925 feet. 
  • Duration: 3-4 hours hiking time.
  • Explore the geology, plants, animals of the Sonoran Desert.
  • Relax at an incredible summit viewpoint with trail snacks and beverages provided by your guide.
  • We approach every trip with fun in mind. Plus, our pro guides will show you secrets of the area that only a few know about. 
Rock along a trail

MORE ADVENTURE | RADDER GUIDES | BIGGER EXPERIENCE

What to Expect

What to Bring

What We Provide

What's Not Included

Iconic Tom's Thumb Guided Hiking Adventure
in Scottsdale's McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Solo Hiker

$ 220 .
  • 1 guide
One on one

2-3 Hikers

$ 145 Each
  • 1 guide
Popular

4-10 Hikers

$ 120 Each
  • 1:6 guide ratio
Group rate

For parties of more than 10, call us for group rates at 480-818-6821

Photo Gallery