What we’re about
UPDATED INFORMATION!
***Thanks to all for a great season! Watch for announcements about new events in September***
We offer hike and mountain bike tours lead by experienced, knowledgeable stewards at no charge. We would love for you to join us while we discover the Scottsdale's McDowell Sonoran Preserve, the largest urban preserve in the United States at over 30,000 acres and 225 miles of trails.
Did you know the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is owned by the City of Scottsdale but cared for by over 600 stewards? Not only do we care for the Preserve, we have a blast enjoying the recreation that it provides. If you would like to join us, visit McdowellSonoran.org.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Venom in the Preserve Educational Walk at Brown’s Ranch TrailheadBrown’s Ranch Trail, Scottsdale, AZ
Some reptiles and arthropods in the Sonoran Desert use venom or other poisons to defend themselves or subdue their prey. Learn how to recognize these animals that bite and sting and the effect of their venom.
Skill level: Easy
Time: ~2 hoursPets are not permitted at our activities due to safety concerns. If you would like to request an accommodation for your service animal, please contact our office at least two weeks before the event you plan to attend.
The difficulty of hikes varies. Please choose hikes that match your fitness level. Bring Water and snacks for the trail. Arrive 15 minutes before the start of the hike.
For information on other Conservancy events, please visit our Conservancy event calendar: https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/events - Ride Lifecycle and Oddities of the Saguaro at Pima Dynamite TrailheadPima Dynamite Trailhead, Scottsdale, AZ
Join us on this ride to see some of the magnificent saguaros only found in the Sonoran Desert. We will have a guest presenter discuss the lifecycle of the giant multiarmed saguaros and view many including skeletons and a crested saguaro located near the trailhead. This is a moderate cardio ride with numerous stops.
Skill level: Moderate
Distance: ~12 miles
Time: ~3 hoursPlease, no road bikes, hybrids, folding bikes, or electric assist bikes. All our rides are “no drop,” meaning we will not leave you. A bike with wide knobby tires is required. Please check the working order of your bike before you leave home. Helmets required. Bring water and snacks. Restrooms are available at the trailhead. Arrive 15 minutes before the start of the ride.
For information on other Conservancy events, please visit our Conservancy event calendar: https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/events - Arthropods Educational Walk at Gateway TrailheadGateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale, AZ
Spiders, scorpions, bees, and wasps are just the beginning – there are more species of arthropods in the world than any other group of animals. Join us to discover the fascinating and diverse world of arthropods and their role in the ecology of the Sonoran Desert.
Skill level: Easy
Time: ~2 hoursPets are not permitted at our activities due to safety concerns. If you would like to request an accommodation for your service animal, please contact our office at least two weeks before the event you plan to attend.
The difficulty of hikes varies. Please choose hikes that match your fitness level. Restrooms are available at the trailheads. Bring Water and snacks for the trail. Arrive 15 minutes before the start of the hike.
For information on other Conservancy events, please visit our Conservancy event calendar: https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/events - Effects of Geology on Local Ecology Hike at Gateway TrailheadGateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale, AZ
This hike will provide an overview of the geology of the area and a discussion about how geology – topography, rock type, soil, etc. – affects local ecology.
Skill level: Easy
Distance: ~1.7 miles
Time: ~2 hoursPets are not permitted at our activities due to safety concerns. If you would like to request an accommodation for your service animal, please contact our office at least two weeks before the event you plan to attend.
The difficulty of hikes varies. Please choose hikes that match your fitness level. Restrooms are available at the trailheads. Bring Water and snacks for the trail. Arrive 15 minutes before the start of the hike.
For information on other Conservancy events, please visit our Conservancy event calendar: https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/events
