Experience the Sonoran Desert – the richest, most biologically diverse desert in the Americas – by way of hiking trails, off-road Jeeps or on horseback. Or stroll a gentler path at the Desert Botanical Gardens, discovering the marvels of the desert landscape.

Enjoy Abundant Outdoor Activities in Scottsdale, Arizona

Whatever pursuit you prefer, Scottsdale offers uniquely diverse and exciting opportunities for recreation, relaxation and fun. For more information, call us at  480-596-7539 or click here to email us. 

Hiking Trails in Scottsdale Arizona

There are many beautiful hiking trails in Scottsdale at parks such as, La Mirada Park, McCormick Railroad Park, McDowell Mountain Ranch Park, McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Mescal Park and Mountain View Park.  Be sure to ask our concierge about more details.

Learn more about the hiking trails in Scottsdale >

Horseback Riding in Scottsdale - Spur Cros Stables

Enjoy horseback riding in Scottsdale with the entire family during your visit! Spur Cross Stable is located on the site of an 1870's gold mine. The ranch is located  four miles north of the town of Cave Creek, on the edge of the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation area.  Our rides take us into the scenic Sonoran Desert, and the foothills of the Tonto National Forest, where riders experience a virtually undisturbed wilderness environment.

Learn more about Spur Cros Stables in Scottsdale >

Bartlett Lake Near Scottsdale & Carefree Arizona

Bartlett Lake is located in the northeast valley only 48 miles from downtown Phoenix and 17 miles northeast of Carefree and is within 1 hour from most valley locations. The scenic Bartlett Lake Road combined with the expanding Phoenix freeway system offers easy access from the entire Valley of the Sun. Outdoor enthusiasts frequent Bartlett Lake for a variety of recreational opportunities, including shoreline camping in Arizona's natural desert terrain. While in this part of the Tonto National Forest, visitors may see mule deer, bald eagles, javelina, coyotes, and many indigenous desert plants, including the majestic saguaro, mesquite trees and blooming ocotillo.

Learn more about Bartlett Lake near Scottsdale  >

Arizona Desert Mountain Jeep Tours

Plan your next adventure with Scottsdale's "Original" Desert Mountain Jeep Tours. Climb aboard their rugged 4-wheel, open-air jeeps for the western experience of a lifetime. The popular Photo Rally and Southwestern Cookouts are the highlight of any Team Building Activity. There are six Trails to choose from. Join us for Fun, Thrills, and Awesome Beauty. Since 1979.

Learn more about Arizona Desert Mountain Jeep Tours >

Mountain Biking in Scottsdale Arizona

Mountain Biking is an exciting sport in the hills of Scottsdale Arizona.  There are many trails to enjoy and beautiful landscape to explore. 

Learn more about the mountain bike tours in Scottsdale >

Hot Air Balloon Rides Near Phoenix & Scottsdale

Hot Air Ballooning is an adventure to explore for our guests visiting The Scottsdale Resort.  There are many companies that offer scenic hotair balloon rides throughout Arizona.  Some of them include:

Arizona Ballooning
Unicorn Balloon Company
Phoenix Hot Air Expeditions
A Great American Baloon Company
Arizona Hot Air Balloons

Piestewa Peak

Surrounding the base of 2,608-foot Piestewa Peak, the Phoenix Mountains Park and Recreation Area and Dreamy Draw Recreation Area are gateways into diverse desert that offers everything from fantastic views to secluded valleys. You don't have to fight crowds on the Piestewa Peak Summit Trail to enjoy the area -- the area boasts dozens of miles of trails to enjoy the glory of the Sonoran Desert in relative solitude. An assortment of picnic area nestled in the hills offer a picturesque spot for gathering.

Learn more about Piestewa Peak >

Pinnacle Peak Park in Scottsdale Arizona

The Sierra Club rates the 150-acre Pinnacle Peak as a moderate hike with an elevation gain of approximately 1,300 feet.  Hiking, horseback riding and rock climbing will take you to spectacular views of the valley .  Rock climbing, for experienced climbers with appropriate gear, is permitted in three areas of the park with a variety of routes and skill levels.

Learn more about Pinnacle Peak Park in Scottsdale >

Salt River Tubing - Phoenix / Scottsdale Area

While visiting The Scottsdale Resort & Conference Center during tubing season, you can enjoy a wonderful day floating down the Salt River. Relax in the beautiful Tonto National Forest surrounded by scenic desert, cacti, and mountains.

Tubing Season is usually from mid-May until mid-September, 7 days a week, weather permitting.

Learn more about Salt River Tubing >