Kick-start your day with a personalized sunrise hike in Phoenix's beautiful desert. This guided adventure suits all skill levels and offers spectacular views to explore at your own pace.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a basic level of fitness, comfortable walking on uneven terrain and able to manage distances up to 6 miles if desired.
Wildlife
History
Phoenix’s desert terrain has long been inhabited by indigenous communities such as the Hohokam, whose irrigation canal systems are historical landmarks in the region.
Conservation
The area promotes Leave No Trace principles to protect sensitive desert habitats and minimize human impact on native plants and wildlife.
Mad Desert Trekking
Kick-start your day with a personalized sunrise hike in Phoenix's beautiful desert. This guided adventure suits all skill levels and offers spectacular views to explore at your own pace.
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.
Start Early to Beat the Heat
Arrive just before sunrise to take full advantage of the cooler morning temperatures and avoid midday heat.
Bring Plenty of Water
Hydration is critical in the desert environment, so carry at least 2 liters per person regardless of distance.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking shoes with good grip are recommended due to rocky and uneven terrain on some trail options.
Use Sunscreen and a Hat
Even during sunrise hours, desert UV exposure can be intense, so protect your skin and eyes.
Hiking Boots
Provides stability and protection on rocky and uneven desert trails.
Sun Hat
Protects your face and neck from strong desert sun, especially during spring’s higher UV exposure.
spring
Lightweight Layers
Allows you to adjust to temperature changes during cooler mornings and warming afternoons.
fall
Hydration Pack or Water Bottles
Ensures you stay hydrated in the dry, hot desert climate throughout your hike.
summer