Discover the stunning desert scenery around Scottsdale on this 2-hour guided hike. Perfect for all ages, it offers a quick yet immersive outdoor experience with expert insights along the way.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners and families
Wildlife
History
The Scottsdale area has a rich Native American history, with many sites dating back hundreds of years, reflecting the area's cultural significance.
Conservation
Mad Desert Trekking emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to preserve the fragile desert ecosystem and promote environmental responsibility.
Mad Desert Trekking
Discover the stunning desert scenery around Scottsdale on this 2-hour guided hike. Perfect for all ages, it offers a quick yet immersive outdoor experience with expert insights along the way.
Mad Desert Trekking is a Miami, Arizona–based outdoor adventure company specializing in guided experiences across the Sonoran Desert. The business offers a broad range of activities, including sunrise and sunset guided hikes, tailored 2-hour treks, full and half-day hikes, Camelback Mountain ascents, Tom’s Thumb excursions, rock climbing, rappelling, and technical canyoneering adventures. Mad Desert Trekking designs trips for a wide mix of abilities and ages, with many experiences open to children aged 8 and up and specialized options for older participants and families.
Guides from Mad Desert Trekking focus on safety, local knowledge, and environmental stewardship. Each trip includes route planning, essential safety instruction where appropriate, and guidance matched to the group’s fitness and experience level. Popular offerings include the Epic Camelback Mountain Guided Hike with a 1,300-foot elevation gain and the Ultimate Canyoneering Adventure that combines hiking, bouldering, climbing, and rappelling. Mad Desert Trekking’s approach emphasizes clear preparation and practical instruction so guests can fully enjoy desert scenery, native flora and fauna, and panoramic overlooks.
Mad Desert Trekking is featured on The Adventure Collective, and the company’s activity list highlights a balance of accessible guided hikes and technical outdoor adventures. With operations based in Miami, Arizona, Mad Desert Trekking serves visitors to Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the wider Valley of the Sun seeking organized, guide-led desert experiences.
Base Location
Miami, Arizona
Operating from the Sonoran Desert
Tours Offered
11 guided trips
Range of hikes, climbs, canyoneering
Trip Durations
2–7 hours
Half-day to full-day adventures
Family Friendly
Ages 8 and up
Most trips welcome children
Secure a spot on sunrise hikes, Camelback ascents, or canyoneering trips — expert guides, clear safety instruction, unforgettable desert views.
Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself from the Sun
Bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to stay comfortable in Scottsdale's sunny climate.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Choose sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes suitable for rocky and uneven desert terrain.
Start Early or Late in the Day
Schedule your hike during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid extreme heat.
Bring a Camera or Smartphone
Capture the stunning desert landscapes and vibrant sunsets during your trek.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Proper footwear helps navigate rocky desert paths safely and comfortably.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from intense desert sun exposure during the hike.
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Provides extra sun protection during outdoor walks.
Light Layers
Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures during cooler seasons.
spring|fall