If you’re buying a home in Scottsdale, you know that the city is surrounded by fabulous mountains – and if you’re a hiker, Arizona is definitely the place for you. Spring is the perfect time to take sunrise hikes in and around Scottsdale because the sun isn’t up extremely early (like it is in the summer), so check out this list of the five best spots to get great views.
Pro Tip: Before you head out on any of these six sunrise hikes near Scottsdale,
check the sunrise time to make sure you leave at the right time.
With that in mind, the six best sunrise hikes in Scottsdale are:
- Sunrise Peak via Sunrise Trail
- Tom’s Thumb Trail
- Piestewa Peak
- Papago Park
- Scenic Trail
- Dobbins Lookout
Here’s a closer look at each.
Sunrise Hike #1 in Scottsdale: Sunrise Peak via Sunrise Trail
Sunrise Peak via Sunrise Trail is a 4.3-mile out-and-back trail. You may see wildlife along this trail, including javelina, so be prepared. Dogs are allowed on Sunrise Trail, provided that they’re on a leash and that you clean up after them.
Sunrise Trail passes some spectacular scenery that you can catch on the way back down, but the peak is really where it’s at – you can watch the sun come up over the mountains in the distance after a moderate hike up the path. The path is very clearly cut, so you won’t have to worry about wandering off; sometimes it’s quite busy (though not so much in the early morning hours).
Sunrise Hike #2 in Scottsdale: Tom’s Thumb Trail
Tom’s Thumb Trail is one of the most popular in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, and for good reason. It’s a short, four-mile hike that’s full of switchbacks; it’s moderate to difficult due to how steep it is and the number of switchbacks you have to go through to get to the summit. You’ll see amazing views of the McDowell Mountains and Phoenix along the way. Remember, though, this is a moderate-to-difficult hike, so you’ll need plenty of water and some sun protection (for your way back down).
Sunrise Hike #3 in Scottsdale: Piestewa Peak
Moderate hiking? Check. Breathtaking views? Check. Big payoff for not so much work? Check. That’s what you get on the way up Piestewa Peak, and you’ll probably bump into a few jackrabbits and more than a handful of lizards on your way up, too. Bring a flashlight to keep an eye on the path along this 2.1-mile hike. Though it’s challenging, you can complete the whole out-and-back trail in just under two hours if you’re rushing. One catch: Pets aren’t allowed on this trail.
Sunrise Hike #4 in Scottsdale: Papago Park
Papago Park is a great place to see the sunrise – and whether you take the West Side Trails or the East Side Trails, you’ll have a great time. A particularly popular spot is the Hole in the Rock, which offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset over the city and surrounding desert. Just to note, the gated roadways aren’t open until 6 a.m. and the parking area isn’t open until sunrise, so you’ll have to walk into the park on your own before sunrise.
Sunrise Hike #5 in Scottsdale: Scenic Trail
Want to bring little ones on a sunrise hike? Scenic Trail in McDowell Mountain Regional Park is a 4.4-mile loop trail that leads you to spectacular views, and it’s no trouble for reasonably adventurous kids. The trail is well-marked and offers a relatively gentle incline, making it accessible for families with children. Along the way, you’ll encounter diverse desert flora and fauna, which can be a fun and educational experience for the kids. You’ll get breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains and the Verde River, too, so it’s one of the most rewarding trails out there. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning sunrise and the memorable moments with your family.
Sunrise Hike #6: Dobbins Lookout
While not directly located in Scottsdale, Dobbins Lookout, located in South Mountain Park, is another fantastic spot for a sunrise hike near Scottsdale. Accessible via a relatively easy hike or a short drive to the top, Dobbins Lookout offers panoramic views of the Phoenix skyline and the surrounding Sonoran Desert. At an elevation of over 2,300 feet, this vantage point provides an incredible perspective on the city awakening to the first light of day. The lookout is equipped with a stone observation area, perfect for relaxing and taking in the stunning scenery. Whether you’re an early riser or looking for a serene way to start your day, Dobbins Lookout is a must-visit for an unforgettable sunrise experience.
Led by a team of seasoned professionals, the Matheson Real Estate Team combines decades of experience with a passion for luxury living. Their Scottsdale real estate agents have extensive knowledge of Scottsdale homes for sale and specialize in high-end residential properties, including custom estates, golf course homes, and exclusive gated communities.
