Discover Popular Hiking Trails in Scottsdale That Allow Dogs
Scottsdale has some of the best dog-friendly hiking in Arizona, with trails ranging from easy desert walks to more advanced climbs with sweeping mountain views. Whether you are looking for a flat trail for a quick walk with your pup or a longer adventure through the Sonoran Desert, there are plenty of Scottsdale hiking trails that welcome dogs on leash.
This guide highlights some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in Scottsdale, including trail difficulty, parking, amenities, and what to expect before you go.
Important note: All dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet, and it is best to hike during the cooler months or early in the morning to avoid heat-related issues.
Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Areas in Scottsdale
If you are looking for dog-friendly hiking in Scottsdale, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is one of the best places to start. With multiple trailheads, scenic desert views, and trails for every skill level, it offers some of the most popular hiking options for Scottsdale dog owners.
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
McDowell Sonoran Preserve is one of the top destinations for dog-friendly hiking in Scottsdale because it offers a huge variety of trails, multiple trailheads, and beautiful Sonoran Desert scenery. With more than 200 miles of trails, it gives hikers and their dogs everything from easy walks to more advanced routes with elevation gain and sweeping views.
Dogs are welcome on leash, and the preserve is well set up for visitors with restrooms, water fountains, parking, maps, and the Paws in the Preserve program. If you are not sure where to begin, this is a great area to start because you can choose a trail based on your dog’s energy level, your comfort with desert hiking, and how much time you want to spend outside.
There is plenty of parking at several trailheads throughout the preserve, and many entry points also offer helpful signs, maps, and trail information. Be sure to check trail conditions and bring plenty of water before heading out, especially during the warmer months. Review the maps online or pick one up when you arrive.
Address: 18333 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Trailheads to Explore in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Each of these trailheads offers a slightly different hiking experience depending on the difficulty level and scenery you prefer. Some are ideal for easy dog walks with wide trails and gentle elevation, while others are better suited for hikers looking for more challenging climbs and panoramic desert views.
- Lost Dog Wash Trailhead
- Gateway Trailhead
- Brown’s Ranch Trailhead
- Tom’s Thumb Trailhead
- Sunrise Trailhead
Lost Dog Wash Trailhead
Lost Dog Wash is a favorite for dog-friendly hiking in Scottsdale thanks to its scenic desert views, peaceful trails, and easy access to several popular routes. The trailhead features a botanical garden, clean restrooms, and multiple well-marked trails, which make it a great option for casual walkers and more active hikers exploring the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
The ground can be rocky on some sections, so good hiking shoes are recommended for both comfort and stability.
There is plenty of parking at Lost Dog Wash, along with restrooms, water fountains, and a small botanical garden near the trailhead entrance. Because of its wide trail options and beautiful Sonoran Desert scenery, this is one of the most popular starting points for dog-friendly hiking in Scottsdale.
Some of the most popular trails accessible from Lost Dog Wash include:
- Kovach Family Nature Trail (0.5 miles)
- Ringtail Trail (2.4 miles)
- Taliesin Overlook (4 miles)
- Sunrise Trail East (4 miles)
- Old Jeep Trail (4.1 miles)
Address: 12601 N 124th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85259
Gateway Trailhead
Gateway Trailhead is one of the most popular starting points for exploring the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Known for its wide, well-maintained paths and beautiful Sonoran Desert scenery, this trailhead provides access to several of the most scenic preserve trails.
From Gateway, hikers can choose routes ranging from short nature walks to longer desert hikes with elevation gain and sweeping valley views. Because the trails connect to multiple routes inside the preserve, it is a great place for casual hikers and for those looking for a more challenging outdoor adventure in North Scottsdale.
There is plenty of free parking at the Gateway Trailhead, along with restrooms, water fountains, and waste bags for visitors. Its convenient location and variety of trail options make it one of the most visited Scottsdale trailheads for locals and visitors alike.
Some of the most popular routes accessible from Gateway include the Gateway Loop Trail as well as connections to Bell Pass and Windgate Pass.
Address: 18333 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Brown’s Ranch Trailhead
Brown’s Ranch Trailhead is one of the most scenic and relaxing places to explore the desert trails of North Scottsdale. Known for its wide paths, open desert views, and peaceful surroundings, this area offers some of the most enjoyable dog-friendly hiking trails in Scottsdale.
The trails around Brown’s Ranch are generally flatter than many other desert routes in the area, which makes them ideal for longer walks. From this trailhead you can reach routes leading toward Cathedral Rock, Brown’s Mountain, Granite Mountain, and Cholla Mountain while enjoying expansive desert views, spring wildflowers, and native wildlife.
Weekends can get busy at Brown’s Ranch because it is one of the most popular trailheads in North Scottsdale. Fortunately, the large parking lot provides plenty of space along with restrooms, water fountains, trail maps, and volunteers who can recommend routes based on your experience level. The trailhead is located about 1.25 miles north of the intersection of Alma School Parkway and Dynamite Boulevard.
Favorite loops:
- Jane Rau Trail (0.4 miles)
- Brown’s Ranch Trail Loop (3.1 miles)
Explore Brown’s Ranch Trails »
Address: 30301 N Alma School Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Tom’s Thumb Trailhead
Tom’s Thumb Trailhead is one of the most well-known and challenging hiking areas in Scottsdale. Known for its dramatic rock formations and sweeping desert views, this trail attracts hikers looking for a more advanced adventure in the Sonoran Desert.
Several trails branch out from this trailhead, offering routes for different skill levels, though the most popular hikes involve steady elevation gain and rocky terrain. The unique granite formations and panoramic views make this one of the most photographed hiking areas in North Scottsdale.
Many hikers say the first mile of the Tom’s Thumb Trail is the most demanding part of the hike. The trail climbs steadily with loose gravel in some sections, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. The effort is well worth it, as the higher elevations reveal incredible views of the valley, the surrounding desert mountains, and the distinctive rock formations that make this area famous.
There is no water along the trail, so bring plenty for both you and your dog. The newer Tom’s Thumb trailhead off North 128th Street offers a large parking area, restrooms, and informational kiosks that help visitors choose the best route.
Some of the most popular routes accessible from Tom’s Thumb include:
- Lookout Viewpoint (5.1 miles)
- Tom’s Thumb Loop (11.1 miles)
- Marcus Landslide (3.7 miles)
Address: 23015 N 128th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Sunrise Trailhead
Sunrise Trailhead offers one of the more challenging hiking routes in North Scottsdale, but the payoff is some of the best panoramic views in the area. The Sunrise Trail climbs steadily through rocky desert terrain, making it a favorite for experienced hikers looking for a harder hike with their pup.
As you gain elevation, the views open up across Fountain Hills, Camelback Mountain, the Superstition Mountains, and the surrounding McDowell Mountain range. The higher you climb, the more dramatic the scenery becomes, which makes the Sunrise Trail one of the most rewarding hikes in Scottsdale. Be sure to reward your dog at the top as well.
Parking at the Sunrise Trailhead is free, but the lot is fairly small and can fill up quickly during busy hiking hours. An overflow parking area is located a short distance down the street if the main lot is full. Water fountains and restrooms are available at the trailhead for both hikers and their dogs.
Wake up extra early for a beautiful sunrise. Nobody said dog-friendly hiking in Scottsdale had to start late.
Address: 12101 N. 145th Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85259
More Dog-Friendly Trails Near Scottsdale
Marcus Landslide Trail
Marcus Landslide Trail branches off from the Tom’s Thumb Trailhead and offers a quieter hiking route through the beautiful desert terrain of North Scottsdale. While the trail begins fairly easy, the final loop becomes narrower and slightly more moderate as it winds through rocky sections and natural desert landscapes.
The trail is about 4 miles long, with an optional extended loop that brings the total distance to roughly 7 miles. Along the way, hikers enjoy wide open desert views, unique granite formations, and peaceful stretches of Sonoran Desert scenery.
The Marcus Landslide Trail begins near the same parking area that serves the Tom’s Thumb Trailhead. Because there is no water along the trail, bring plenty for both you and your dog.
Spring is one of the best times to hike this trail, when wildflowers bloom across the desert landscape. The colorful desert plants combined with the dramatic rock formations make this area especially scenic. There are also small detour trails along the way where you can stop to see interesting rock formations, including mushroom rocks, boulders, and a granite landslide.
Explore Marcus Landslide Trail »
Address: 23015 N 128th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Arizona Canal Trail
The Arizona Canal Trail is a long, multi-use path that runs through several areas of Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix region. The trail follows the historic canal system and offers miles of flat, well-maintained paths that are perfect for walking, jogging, or enjoying an easy outing with your dog.
Some sections are paved while others are compact gravel, but the trail remains mostly smooth and accessible. Because the terrain is flat, it is one of the best options for a relaxed dog-friendly walk in Scottsdale or a longer run along the canal.
Certain sections of the Arizona Canal Trail can get busy with walkers, runners, and cyclists, especially during the cooler morning hours. Even so, the long stretches of uninterrupted path make it easy to enjoy a peaceful walk along the water.
Several nearby parks provide access points along the canal, and some areas offer restrooms and water fountains. Many restaurants and cafés along the canal are also dog-friendly, which makes it a great place to stop and relax after your walk. Parking is available near several access points, including the Silverado Golf Club area at 7605 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85250.
Address: 6630 E Indian School Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Pemberton Trail
Pemberton Trail is one of the longest and most scenic hiking routes in the McDowell Mountain Regional Park area. Stretching roughly 15 miles, this trail loops through wide open desert terrain with incredible views of the McDowell Mountains and the distant Four Peaks Wilderness.
Because of its length and varied terrain, the Pemberton Trail is popular with hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers looking for a longer desert adventure. Keep in mind that this is a lot of hiking for a dog. The trail features a mix of flat sections, gentle elevation changes, and a few rockier areas as the loop continues through the desert.
The trail can be accessed through McDowell Mountain Regional Park or by connecting from nearby trails such as the Marcus Landslide Trail near the Tom’s Thumb trailhead area. A small entrance fee is required to enter the regional park, and restrooms are available near the main parking areas.
Because there are no reliable water sources along the trail, bring plenty of water for both you and your dog. The open desert terrain also means shade is limited, so early morning hikes are usually the most comfortable.
Address: 16300 McDowell Mountain Park Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Tips for Dog-Friendly Hiking in Scottsdale
Before heading out on the trail, bring plenty of water for both you and your dog, especially during the warmer months. Dogs should remain on a leash, and early morning hikes are usually the safest and most comfortable option during much of the year. It is also smart to watch for rocky terrain, loose gravel, and hot ground surfaces that can be hard on your dog’s paws.
Not every trail is the right fit for every dog. Some Scottsdale trails are better for relaxed walks, while others are best for active dogs that can handle longer distances and elevation gain. Choosing the right trail based on your dog’s age, energy level, and comfort in desert conditions will make the experience much better for both of you.
Ready to Explore Dog-Friendly Hiking in Scottsdale?
If you are looking for the best places to enjoy the Scottsdale lifestyle with your dog, these trails are a great place to start. From scenic preserve hikes to easier desert paths, Scottsdale offers plenty of outdoor options for dog owners who want more than a simple neighborhood walk.
As a local Scottsdale real estate expert, I love highlighting the lifestyle side of living here, including the trails, parks, and outdoor spaces that make this area so special.
Want more ways to explore with your pup? Check out our guides to the best dog parks in Scottsdale and the top dog-friendly restaurants in Scottsdale.
Trail conditions, hours, and park rules can change, so it is always a good idea to double-check before you go.
