Fraesfield North to Balanced Rock Hike at Fraesfield Trailhead. This Difficult hike has a moderate rocky uphill portion on the north side of Fraesfield Mountain, but the remainder of the hike covers relatively flat terrain. Experienced hikers suggested; elevation gain is 333 feet. Plan 3.5 hours for 8 miles. Arrive 15 minutes before start of […]
Poisonous Arthropods in the Preserve at Gateway Trailhead. Arthropods are the most diverse of all animals, comprising over 85 percent of all living animal species! A variety of arthropods in the Sonoran Desert use poisons for defense against predators or to kill or immobilize prey. Some of these animals are also venomous, like scorpions, but […]
Brown’s Ranch Interpretative Trail Hike at Brown’s Ranch Trailhead. Before the Preserve was a reality, part of this land was a ranch, the historic Brown’s Ranch. Join us to explore this historical place, full of memories of a different way of life and hear the stories of the people who lived here not long ago. […]
Introduction to Mountain Biking: Session 1 (Beg.) at Pima Dynamite Trailhead. This program is designed to introduce participants to mountain biking by building foundational riding skills and confidence in a safe, supportive setting. It emphasizes the importance of proper bike setup, safety checks, and trail etiquette, while fostering an appreciation for outdoor activity and responsible […]
Predators and Prey - Balancing the Ecosystem at Lost Dog Wash Trailhead Join us for a fascinating two-hour leisurely walk exploring the dynamic relationship between predators and prey. Discover how desert animals like coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, raptors, and snakes have evolved to hunt, and how their prey—such as deer and rodents—have adapted to survive. […]
Windgate Pass/Bell Pass Loop from Gateway Trailhead. Ready for a great workout? Then this Very Difficult hike in the heart of the southern McDowells is for you. We go to Windgate Pass and around to Bell Pass before returning to the trailhead. 9.3 miles for about 5 hours with over 2000 ft. of elevation gain. […]
Linking Plants, Pollinators and You Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 2:30 pm to 4 pm Location: Mustang Library, 10101 N 90th Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85258 We will explore the dynamic and varied world of Sonoran Desert Pollinators who coexist with us in every season and landscape. These pollinators, while offering our desert great beauty, also serve an […]
Ride to the Crested Saguaros and Lifecycle of the Saguaro (Int.) from Granite Mountain Trailhead. Ever noticed the Crested Saguaros in the preserve? Come ride with us to see a large number scattered throughout the north. This 3.5 hour ride will cover 10 miles and is rated Advanced Skill and Vigorous Cardio. A bike with […]
Women’s Bike Ride (Beg.) from Brown's Ranch Trailhead. This women’s bike ride is a beginner skill level ride and moderate cardio. This ride is perfect for women or those who identify as women. It is a “No Drop” ride, meaning no one will be left behind. Plan on about 3 hours to cover approximately 11 […]
Tom’s Thumb, East End, Regional Park from Tom's Thumb Trailhead. This very difficult hike from Tom's Thumb trailhead explores the rugged and scenic views of the Preserve. We will go up Tom’s Thumb to East End and return via the McDowell Regional Park in 9.3 miles with over 1,500 ft. elevation change in about 5 […]
Nature's Medicine Cabinet Educational Walk at Brown's Ranch Trailhead. Take a global look of the importance of plants and their physical properties and how they were used throughout the centuries to aid in man’s wellbeing. We will start globally but then move to look at some of medicinal plants found in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. […]
Mammoth Hunters to Canal Builders Educational Hike at Fraesfield Trailhead. Travel back in time in the preserve with our expert and former City of Scottsdale archeologist to learn how historic and ancient peoples survived and thrived in this desert area. This easy hike covers 3 miles over about 2.5 hours. Restrooms available at the trailhead […]
