Scottsdale Sonoran Preserve Tour: Iconic Landmark & Views

Explore a renowned mark in the Scottsdale Sonoran Preserve. Witness the distinctive geological features, and observe the distinct plant life and wildlife specific to the Sonoran Desert. Enjoy remarkable views of the McDowell Mountains and surrounding regions.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Tom’s Thumb Trailhead - Visit the most iconic landmark in the Scottsdale Sonoran Preserve!
    Spend your morning or afternoon on an expert-led hike to the famous Tom’s Thumb formation in the Scottsdale Sonoran Preserve. A local guide from Mad Desert Trekking will greet you at the trailhead and hike with you through the incredible terrain of the…
What's Included
  • Sunscreen
  • Bottled water
  • Snacks
  • Backpacks
Location
Tom's Thumb Trailhead
East Paraiso Drive
A Mad Desert Trekking guide will meet guests near the building at Tom's Thumb Trailhead, 12943 E Paraiso Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(46 Ratings)
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Catherinegz7390zx
Feb 6, 2026
Scottsdale hike - We booked this adventure using Viator with Mad Desert Trekking. We had an amazing experience. Cha Cha reached out to us the day prior to confirm our reservation and make sure we had the correct meeting location. Once we arrived, we were given water and snacks for hike. Cha Cha was wonderful. She was very knowledgeable and encouraging throughout the hike. We were so thankful she led us and allowed us to hike at our own pace. I highly recommend this hike and definitely ask for Cha Cha. You won’t be disappointed.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lans_r
Dec 12, 2025
Five Stars PLUS! - If I could give six stars, I would! Doug led us on a spectacular hike. He was so very patient with us as we labored a bit and stopped frequently to take photos. We're both midwesterners in our 60s, so the trek was a little grueling but so worth it. Although being in "relatively good shape" is important, Doug allowed us to take our time. (It took us five hours vs. the advertised three.) It has been three days and our legs are still a little sore. Don't let that deter you, though. It is WELL WORTH the short-term pain. Doug was knowledgeable, courteous, cautious, funny, and easy-going. This is a must-do experience!
Review provided by Viator
Donna_g
Nov 20, 2025
Tom’s Thumb - Great hike! I went solo with Jennifer the guide . She was so fun , and informative regarding all the various cactus, plants, and wildlife. The weather wasn’t the best ( rainy and 48 degrees) . Very unusual for this area, but Jennifer made it so enjoyable! I highly recommend this hike. 🥾🥾
Review provided by Viator
Rusty_n
Nov 11, 2025
Challenging climb but great fun!! - Very scenic and a challenging climb. You should be in reasonable shape to make this trek. However it was great fun
Review provided by Viator
Karin_s
Nov 10, 2025
Hiking Adventure in Scottsdale. - Amazing hike up to Tom’s Thumb! While the trail is well marked, the experience was enhanced by having a guide as a solo hiker. Curtis was there to meet me at the trailhead and had water and snacks for the adventure. Lots of local knowledge and great pics. Would definitely book with Mad Desert Tracking again.
Review provided by Viator
Scenic67841702407
Oct 25, 2025
Hike - Mike was amazing guide for our hike today.. he took beautiful pictures and send them to us.he also dropped us to hotel on way back
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mwyckoff40
Sep 22, 2025
Incredible Experience - Henry was outstanding and our experience was incredible. From the sunrise atmosphere to Henry's patient and encouraging attitude, my husband and I completed out first ever hike- Tom's Thumb! Henry was also super knowledgeable pointing out all of the landscape as far as the eye could see. We also loved receiving pictures aftwrwards. We would 1000% recommend Mad Desert Trekking.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Maricelis_o
Apr 28, 2025
The hike was a great... - The hike was a great experience and my guide Jay was amazing, he made my trip worth it! I would recommend anytime.
Review provided by Viator
Heathersp8845dx
Mar 5, 2025
Amazing adventures - Went on the guided Toms thumb hike My guide Luz was wonderful and so knowledgeable. Trail and views were amazing! Definitely recommend this company for anyone looking to get out and explore with help of local guides
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Stephanie_g
Feb 28, 2025
Best hike ever - Had a wonderful early morning hike with Lizzy to Tom’s Thumb. She was the perfect guide, with easy conversation, vast knowledge and a knack for pictures. Beautiful views and a great workout!
Review provided by Viator
From $120
up to 12 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).