Tom's Thumb Trailhead
Hiking area · Scottsdale ·

Tom's Thumb Trailhead

Hiking area · Scottsdale ·

Steep trails with panoramic desert views and unique rock formations

well marked trail
switchbacks
workout
steep incline
vista points
information boards
loose rock
ample parking
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null
Tom's Thumb Trailhead by null

Information

12943 E Paraiso Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Get directions

Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Information

Static Map

12943 E Paraiso Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Get directions

+1 480 312 7013
scottsdaleaz.gov
@scottsdaleazgov
𝕏
@scottsdaleazgov

Features

•Wheelchair accessible entrance
•Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Last updated

Jan 18, 2026

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@travelleisure
28,641 Postcards · 5,542 Cities

10 Best Fall Hiking Trails in the U.S. and Canada

"A little over two miles to a dramatic rock summit in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, this steep, switchbacked climb rewards hikers with phenomenal panoramic views of the desert and distinctive thumb-shaped rock formations; the steep inclines make it a challenging outing, and many visitors pair the effort with post-hike relaxation at the area's spa resorts." - Stacey Lastoe Stacey Lastoe Stacey Lastoe is an Emmy Award-winning editor and journalist who covers travel, food and drink, wellness, and more. A former senior editor for CNN Travel, she now contributes to publications including Food & Wine, The New York Post, and Condé Nast Traveler. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/nature-travel/best-fall-hikes-in-the-us-and-canada
Tom's Thumb Trailhead
@travelleisure
28,641 Postcards · 5,542 Cities

Hiking in Scottsdale: 9 Best Trails

"Tom's Thumb Trail is a favorite among the 30,500-acre McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The four-mile out-and-back trail is short but steep and full of switchbacks. Rest assured that the views of the McDowell Mountains and Phoenix are well worth the effort. As with many other hiking trails in the area, the Tom's Thumb Trail does not have drinking water and is not shaded, so plan your trek accordingly." - Travel + Leisure Editors

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/best-hiking-scottsdale
Tom's Thumb Trailhead

Shelbi C.

Google
I booked a trip to the Greater Phoenix area to do some hiking and enjoy the sunshine. Of all of my hikes, this was my favorite. Though it was not the most technical, it was the most beautiful hike that I completed this week. This out amd back hike offered a good workout and amazing views. I highly recommend!

Vishal M.

Google
A challenging but rewarding 2.2-mile hike to the iconic Tom’s Thumb rock formation. The trail is steep and strenuous, demanding consistent effort and plenty of breaks — think of it as a workout with incredible views as your reward. Carry at least 2 liters of water, as there’s good shade for most of the hike. Perfect for hikers looking for a tough climb, scenic desert vistas, and a sense of accomplishment at the top.

Greg K

Google
We went to Marcus Landslide Trail and loved it. There were many vista point, different information plaques, and great signage to keep you on your toes trail. We started at the equestrian parking lot which had ample spots available. We could see all the way to Fountains Hills from the loop portion of our hike. There was no water on the trail, so come prepared.

Dan L.

Google
1st time for me and I loved it!! What a great trail and the views are amazing!

Ashley H.

Google
Trail is well marked. The first 1.3 miles are uphill switchbacks which turned into rolling hills until final ascent to the top.

Kyle K.

Google
So beautiful! The scenery is straight out of a painting. As a man from Ohio and not used to hiking, this was a challenge but very doable.

Michael “Maranara” M.

Google
4 mile out and back to Tom's Thumb, with plenty of shade at the top. The first 1.5m is all incline after the flats. The rock/gravel is loose as a woman fell today, so please be careful. The incline is gradual with switchbacks. The trail then tends to plateau at times, making it more of a nature walk, so hang in there. Make sure to check out all the overlooks to the top as they contain some nice captures. These boulder formations are incredibly unique. If the top of Tom's has high traffic, hike around back on the left, and you'll have some nice, lined up views with nobody in sight.

Nadine C.

Google
Amazing trail! It is some work walking up as it is approximately one mile but a very good workout. The views along the way are quite remarkable! Huge boulders and rocks at crazy angles. The trail is well maintained but a bit gravelly on the way down. We took our time and for us it took 3 hours up and down. Lots of parking with bathrooms at the base, no running water. I would recommend this trail.