
Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 47 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure worth booking?
Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure is a 3-hour experience in Scottsdale, United States, from $157 per person. It scores 71 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 47 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 71 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (47)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $157 per person
Experience the Scottsdale Classic Hiking Adventure in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. We’ll customize the hike to your mileage, terrain and grade preferences. - Hike for about two hours. - Explore the geology, plants, an
What you get
About this experience
Experience the Scottsdale Classic Hiking Adventure in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. We’ll customize the hike to your mileage, terrain and grade preferences. - Hike for about two hours. - Explore the geology, plants, animals of the Sonoran Desert. - Relax at an incredible 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. - 2-3 hours on the trail - Meet your guide at the trailhead - Difficulty scale: Easy to strenuous—you choose the level! We provide everything you need for your hiking adventure: - Use of backpacks - Sunscreen - Bottled water - Sports drinks - Trail snacks - Plus, cold beverages after finishing your hike. Our number one priority is your safety. We guarantee a safe, enjoyable and memorable Sonoran Desert experience.
What's included
Included
- Backpacks
- Carbonated beverages
- Sunscreen
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Cold beverages following the hiking adventure
Not included
- Gratuities
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Scottsdale
Your Mad Desert Trekking guide will meet you at Gateway Trailhead, 18333 N. Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Uber and Lyft will conveniently offer drop-off service to the Starbucks.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Your Mad Desert Trekking guide will meet you at Gateway Trailhead, 18333 N. Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Uber and Lyft will conveniently offer drop-off service to the Starbucks.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Mad Desert Trekking
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 47 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Physical effort
8 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
47 verified traveler reviews for Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great hike!!!
Our guide was fantastic. He explained everything. He encouraged us to push ourselves. He had supplies. He took TONS of pictures and airdropped to us. The hike was fantastic.
Response from the operator: Kimberly, great hike, great vibes! 🤜🤛 We're thrilled you felt encouraged to push your limits out there. That’s what Mad Desert Trekking is all about—exploring the Sonoran Desert with a pro who’s got your back and the supplies!. See you on the next adventure! 👍☀️ — Matt Kalina | Owner | Mad Desert Trekking | Scottsdale, AZ | Intense Human-Powered Sonoran Desert Adventures 🏜🦎☀️🌵
via Viator
Jennifer is the best
Wonderful hike and Jennifer is great. Educational experience Beautiful warm sunny day. Provided water
Response from the operator: Tina, we're thrilled you had such a great day on the Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure with your guide Jennifer who is enthusiastic about showing off the beauty of the Sonoran Desert while dropping some local knowledge along the way. Stay adventurous! — Matt Kalina | Owner | Mad Desert Trekking | Scottsdale, AZ | Intense Human-Powered Sonoran Desert Adventures 🌄🦎☀️🌵
via Viator
Great Desert Hike in Brown’s Ranch - Scottsdale
We had a great time with Doug Mangum our guide who was wonderful. Our hike was intermediate and we were able summit Brown’s Mountain, which had incredible views of the valley. Doug brought small backpacks and snacks and water for everyone. We enjoyed his engaging teaching style which was personable, warm, and funny as we learned about the various cacti, trees, wildlife, civilizations, and ranching history of the Scottsdale and Phoenix area.
Response from the operator: Maura, thanks so much for the shout-out! It's great to hear you had such a blast summiting Brown’s Mountain with your guide Doug. He really does go above and beyond to make sure the history and wildlife come to life while you’re putting in the miles. And, there’s nothing like that Scottsdale valley view from the top! Thanks for choosing Mad Desert Trekking for your adventure, and we hope to see you on the next trail! 🤜💥🤛 — Matt Kalina | Owner | Mad Desert Trekking | Scottsdale, AZ | Intense Human-Powered Sonoran Desert Adventures 🌄🦎☀️🌵
via Tripadvisor
Excellent custom hike.
Doug was an excellent guide. We had an amazing time. The hike was tailored to what we wanted to do. Doug shared all about the history of the area and was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. Would definitely do another hike when we are back in town.
Response from the operator: Beth, thanks for your awesome feedback! Making sure the hike is exactly what you want is what we do best. We're all your guide Doug made your time with us so fun. Definitely book that next trek—we're already dreaming up your next adventure! Until then, happy trails! — Matt Kalina | Owner | Mad Desert Trekking | Scottsdale, AZ | Intense Human-Powered Sonoran Desert Adventures 🌄🦎☀️🌵
via Tripadvisor
Jay is a great guide. Educational, guide was well versed in the local flora and fauna. Highly recommend.
Great experience! Jay was an amazing guide! Highly recommend. He let us and proceed backpacks, cold drinks and snacks.
Response from the operator: Phyllis, that's the highest praise! We're thrilled your guide Jay helped you unlock the secrets of the desert and made the trek a fun and educational adventure. That's what Mad Desert Trekking is all about Join us again for another dose of Sonoran Desert energy! — Matt Kalina | Owner | Mad Desert Trekking | Scottsdale, AZ | Intense Human-Powered Sonoran Desert Adventures 🌄🦎☀️🌵
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $157 to $227
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 16
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 71
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Scottsdale.
How much does Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure cost?
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Prices start at $157 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Scottsdale usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Scottsdale is not rushed.
Is Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 71 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 47 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Scottsdale, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure?
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Around 16 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Scottsdale can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Scottsdale and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Scottsdale Desert Classic Guided Hiking Adventure start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Scottsdale within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Scottsdale?
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Scottsdale pairs polished Old Town food, art and nightlife tours with hard desert adventure: Jeep runs through the Tonto, hot air balloons at dawn, horseback rides and e-bike routes along the greenbelt. Operator permits decide which trails a tour can actually reach, so we look closely at route detail. On Outty we rank every Scottsdale experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale, Sonoran Desert Jeep Tour at Sunset, 8:00AM Desert Off-Road UTV Tour, 2 hours, 2 people per vehicle. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Scottsdale?
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November to April, with dawn departures through the summer. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Scottsdale?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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