A steep, high-desert climb just outside Scottsdale that compresses granite ridgelines, tight scrambles, and sweeping Sonoran views into a single-day adventure. Perfect for strong hikers and scramblers who want dramatic panoramas without multi-day travel.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–10 hours
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and leg strength; comfortable with sustained uphill and some exposed scrambling.
Wildlife
History
This terrain sits within traditional lands of regional Indigenous peoples, including the Tohono O'odham and Yavapai, and reflects long-standing cultural ties to the landscape.
Conservation
Practice Leave No Trace, avoid disturbing fragile cryptobiotic soil, and carry out all waste—water is scarce and trails are sensitive to erosion.
Discovery Treks
Discovery Treks specializes in guided hiking and backpacking trips across iconic U.S. national parks and coastal routes. The company coordinates experiences that range from day hikes to multi-day backpacking tours, including focused itineraries for the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Yellowstone, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Olympic Coast, Joshua Tree, Death Valley, Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Grand Teton.
Discovery Treks offers specific pre-permit lottery reservation services for Grand Canyon backpacking and Rim to Rim departures, allowing hikers to apply through the permit lottery process and adjust group details before application deadlines. Several listed departures include explicit pre-permit reservation language, and some trips note flexible booking without an upfront deposit during the pre-permit phase.
Signature itineraries include Classic Hike to the River, a 3- or 4-day Grand Canyon hike with camping at Phantom Ranch, Rim to Rim options in both camping and priority/tour formats, Half Dome hikes and express options, and multi-park inn-based tours such as Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef. Day hikes, overnight treks, and extended tours are represented across the calendar.
All trip descriptions and reservations appear under the Discovery Treks listing on The Adventure Collective. Booking details, permit application options, trip duration, and specific route information are provided per individual trip listing. Prospective hikers should review each itinerary description for exact logistics, permits, and current availability. Safety information, packing lists, fitness requirements, and seasonal guidance are included with each trip listing so participants can prepare appropriately and confirm specifics such as meeting locations, gear recommendations, and required permits before booking.
Tours Offered
27
Guided hikes and multi-day treks available
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Presented on a recognized travel platform
Pre-Permit
Available
Pre-permit lottery reservations offered
Destinations
12
Major U.S. parks and coastal treks
Browse available dates, view pre-permit reservation options, and select the Discovery Treks itinerary that fits skill level and timing.
Start at first light
Begin before sunrise to avoid heat and catch excellent light on the granite ridgelines.
Carry ample water
Bring 2–3 liters per person in warm months; there are no reliable water sources on route.
Sticky shoes and gloves
Use approach shoes with good rubber and light gloves for better edge grip on granite slabs.
Watch for wildlife
Be alert for bighorn sheep and rattlesnakes; give animals space and avoid surprising them in brushy washes.
Approach shoes or sturdy hiking boots
Sticky rubber soles help on granite slabs and scrambling sections.
Hydration (2–3 L) or a hydration bladder
Desert heat and exposure make carrying ample water mandatory.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF)
High desert sun and reflective granite increase UV exposure.
Light gloves and a headlamp
Gloves protect hands on short scrambles; a headlamp is useful for early starts or late returns.