Scottsdale isn’t just about luxury resorts and golf courses; it’s a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. With its expansive Sonoran Desert landscape, rugged trails, and nearby red rock formations, Scottsdale offers a variety of hiking and trekking tours that suit all levels. Our favorites include the Camelback E-Bike & Hike Tour for those who want a mix of biking and walking without breaking a sweat, and the Iconic Tom’s Thumb Guided Hike for those craving a challenging climb with panoramic views. Plus, if you’re short on time but still want a memorable desert experience, the 1-2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Hiking Tour delivers a personalized, intimate adventure. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk or a vigorous hike, Scottsdale’s outdoor offerings are worth exploring.
Among the many options, a standout is the Camelback E-Bike & Hike Tour because it combines the best of both worlds: effortless e-biking through Scottsdale’s high-end neighborhoods and an accessible hike up Cholla Trail, with spectacular desert views. If you’re pressed for time but want a deep dive into the Sonoran Desert, the Private Guided Hike offers tailored experiences for small groups. For full-day immersion, the Sedona Experience blends scenic hikes, lunch, and wine tasting—perfect if you’re looking to combine outdoor activity with a taste of Arizona’s wine country.
1. Camelback E-Bike & Hike Tour – 2.5 Hours
This guided e-bike and hiking tour is a fantastic way to explore Scottsdale’s Paradise Valley comfortably. You start by riding 3 blocks from the office in Old Town to the Greenbelt Bike Path, cruising alongside Scottsdale’s golf courses and affluent neighborhoods. The e-bikes—with helmets and audio receivers—make navigation easy, so you won’t miss any details about the local scenery or celebrity homes.
The tour then shifts to the accessible Cholla Trail, where your guide will take you on an easy 30-minute hike (up to marker #7 or #11). This is perfect for those who want to enjoy Arizona’s desert vistas without strenuous effort. The itinerary includes riding past $5 to $17 million homes, and if time permits, a visit to Lake Marguerite, a little-known water feature that offers a peaceful break.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of small-group intimacy—limited to just 8 travelers—and the insider route that reveals hidden McCormick Ranch gems. Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and gorgeous scenery, making it a top choice for beginners and seasoned hikers alike.
Bottom Line: For a relaxed yet active introduction to Scottsdale’s desert and upscale neighborhoods, this tour balances comfort and adventure perfectly.
2. The Sedona Experience – Hiking, Lunch and Wine Tasting (Private Tour)
At number 2, this full-day private tour is ideal if you want to experience Sedona’s stunning red rock scenery alongside some leisure activities. Starting with a moderate hike through iconic Red Rocks, you’ll get stunning views that showcase Sedona’s geological marvels. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed lunch in town with time for shopping or wandering on your own.
The highlight is visiting two Page Springs vineyards, where you’ll indulge in a full flight of Arizona wines. The tour is fully customizable, with pick-up and drop-off from select Sedona hotels, making it a seamless experience. The private nature of the tour allows your guide to tailor the pace and focus on your interests, whether that’s photography, geology, or wine.
Guests praise the personalized experience and the chance to see Sedona’s diverse landscapes in a single day. With a price of $375 per person, it offers excellent value for those seeking an all-encompassing day trip that blends hiking, relaxation, and wine tasting.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive and luxurious Sedona outing, this private tour caters to those who appreciate a mix of active and laid-back pursuits.
3. 1-2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Hiking Tour
This private guided hike is perfect for travelers seeking a short, personalized desert experience. You’ll meet at the Pima-Dynamite Trailhead to explore rolling terrain that features towering saguaro cacti, massive boulders, and sweeping mountain vistas. The 2-hour tour allows for a relaxed pace, with your guide sharing insights about desert flora, fauna, and geology.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—you can choose from several tour times and customize the route to suit your fitness level and interests. Snacks, water, and sunscreen are included, so all you need to do is show up ready for adventure.
Reviewers often mention how Paul, the guide, is knowledgeable, friendly, and makes the experience both educational and fun. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a personalized tour without committing to a full day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for solo travelers, small groups, or anyone wanting a short but meaningful desert hike with expert guidance.
4. Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure
This 3-hour guided hike takes you through the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a flagship area for Scottsdale outdoor activities. Led by a certified local guide, you’ll explore diverse desert landscapes and learn about local plants, animals, and geology. The hike is customized to your skill level, making it suitable for beginners and more experienced hikers alike.
What sets this adventure apart is the combination of informative commentary and the scenic trail that includes trailside snacks and beverages at a lookout point. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the easy-going pace, making it a safe, engaging, and educational experience.
This tour is great for travelers who want to learn about the Sonoran Desert in a relaxed setting, with the flexibility to adjust the hike’s difficulty.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a well-rounded, educational desert hike with a friendly, local guide.
5. Iconic Tom’s Thumb Guided Hiking Adventure in Scottsdale, Arizona
Number 5 on our list is an approximately three-hour guided hike to the famous Tom’s Thumb formation. This iconic granite feature is a must-see for anyone exploring Scottsdale’s natural beauty. Your guide will lead you through the desert landscape, showcasing desert flora, fauna, and geological features along the way.
The hike involves switchbacks to reach the top, where breathtaking panoramic views of Scottsdale and the surrounding mountains await. Bottled water and snacks are provided, ensuring you stay energized. Reviewers indicate the guide’s knowledge and the challenging yet rewarding ascent make this tour stand out.
It’s suitable for hikers with a moderate fitness level who want a meaningful challenge combined with spectacular scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an adventure-packed hike with iconic scenery, and a guide who can enhance the experience with local insights.
6. Sonoran Desert Guided Hike
This 2-hour guided tour provides a short, tailored experience through the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The focus is on learning about desert plants, wildlife, and geology while enjoying rocky terrain and desert vistas. The tour is flexible, with options to customize meeting spots, trails, and difficulty.
The early morning departures help avoid the afternoon heat, and the guide will adapt the hike to suit your fitness level. Whether you’re interested in bird watching or botany, this tour offers personalized insights and plenty of photo opportunities.
Reviewers mention Ed’s enthusiasm and knowledge as highlights. It’s ideal for small groups or individuals who want to experience the desert with a local expert.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers who want a short, educational hike that’s flexible and personalized.
7. Private Scottsdale Day Hiking Tour
This half-day private hike covers the popular Gateway Loop Trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The moderate hike offers desert views, cactus, and mountain scenery, with plenty of chances to spot desert wildlife like lizards and birds. Your guide will tailor the pace and highlight local flora and fauna.
Because it’s private, it’s perfect for those seeking a personalized experience or traveling with a small group. The 3-hour hike is suitable for most fitness levels, and the guide’s knowledge helps deepen the understanding of desert ecology.
Reviews commend the friendly guide and the scenic views, making this a reliable choice for a relaxed but engaging outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a personalized desert hike with scenic overlooks and a knowledgeable guide.
8. Echo Canyon Camelback E-Bike & Hike Tour – Scottsdale – 2.5 Hours
This family-friendly tour combines a greenbelt bike ride with a short hike up Echo Canyon. Starting on Scottsdale’s premier bike path, you’ll cruise past luxury estates—some owned by Phoenix Suns players—before parking at the trailhead for a 15-minute hike to marker #9.
The e-bikes make the ride accessible for all skill levels, and the hike offers stunning views of Camelback Mountain. The guide’s pace is slow and relaxed, making it suitable for non-athletic types or families with kids. Reviewers love the easy-going atmosphere and spectacular scenery.
This tour’s value lies in its combination of biking and hiking, giving a well-rounded experience in just a couple of hours.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or those who prefer a less strenuous outdoor experience with fantastic vistas.
9. Iconic Tom’s Thumb Guided Hike in Scottsdale
This about 2-hour guided hike takes you to Tom’s Thumb, offering a short but rewarding journey into Scottsdale’s desert. Your guide will lead you along scenic switchbacks, sharing insights on local wildlife and geologic formations. The hike includes panoramic views and plenty of photo opportunities.
While reviews are currently unavailable, the focus on expert guiding and the famous landmark makes it a compelling option for moderate hikers. The tour includes snacks and water, so just bring your sense of adventure.
Bottom Line: A compact, scenic hike that’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see a desert icon with a knowledgeable guide.
$105.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Hiking or Trekking Tour in Scottsdale
Picking the best tour depends on your budget, fitness level, and what kind of experience you want. For a relaxed introduction, the Camelback E-Bike & Hike Tour offers a gentle mix of biking and hiking. If you prefer a full-day adventure with wine and scenery, the Sedona Experience is perfect.
For those seeking a personalized experience, the Private Guided Hike or the Private Scottsdale Day Hiking Tour give you flexibility. If you want something short but scenic, the Sonoran Desert Guided Hike is a good option, especially for early-morning outings.
Keep in mind your fitness level—more challenging hikes like Tom’s Thumb or Echo Canyon cater to those with a bit of stamina. Consider booking early, especially during peak months, to secure your preferred time.
Final Thoughts
Scottsdale offers an impressive range of hiking and trekking experiences suited for all kinds of travelers. If you’re new to outdoor adventures, the Camelback E-Bike & Hike Tour provides comfort with stunning sights. For the serious hiker, the Tom’s Thumb or McDowell Preserve excursions deliver a rewarding challenge and breathtaking vistas. If you’re visiting nearby Sedona, the full-day tour with wine tasting combines outdoor fun with relaxing indulgence.
No matter your choice, booking early is smart—these tours tend to fill up fast, especially in the cooler months. Whether you’re after a leisurely walk, a challenging climb, or a personalized adventure, Scottsdale’s outdoor scene is waiting.