Tom's Thumb Trailhead

Hiking area · Scottsdale

Tom's Thumb Trailhead

Hiking area · Scottsdale

2

12943 E Paraiso Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

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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

Highlights

Hiking with challenging trails, scenic views, unique boulders  

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12943 E Paraiso Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Get directions

scottsdaleaz.gov
@scottsdaleazgov

Information

Static Map

12943 E Paraiso Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Get directions

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

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Oct 14, 2025

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@travelleisure

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
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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
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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.

David Barker

Google
Well maintained trail. Bathrooms at the trail head. Fabulous views. Several sections challenged my cardio. I’m 69. But no scrambling. Bring water! Stunning rock formations as the trail twists and turns. Took me 1:40 to the summit and 1:00 to return. Descending was slippery at sections which is common for desert hiking trails. 70 degrees and sunny with a breeze.

Twee CW

Google
What a beautiful and well-maintained trail. The volunteers are awesome and the late spring hike with beautiful weather make it a PERFECT DAY.

Nadine Cannell

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.

Daniel Telkamp

Google
Fun hike, with a pretty intensive uphill switchback climb in the early middle part of the climb. Amazing views of the Southeast and Northwest from the top.

Matthew Ratliff

Google
Great place to hike, a lot of Beautiful views points to take pictures. The trail is pet friendly given the time of year. Google Map Directions are Incorrect and will lead you a stray, easy Directions are Scottsdale Rd N to Happy valley Rd E and follow it until you get to E Ranch Gate Rd that will take you to the trail. IF YOUR LUCKY you will spot the rest of Tom here is a picture of his head .

Mike Peterson

Google
Always a five star! This hike is awesome. It is not too long, has some good steep sections with some recovery flats, and had great views. I have seen desert tortoises 🐢 on this trail and today we saw a rattler. It was minding it's own business and knew we were there. The volunteer at the trailhead was amazing too. Welcomed us and shared some insight into the trail. You have to do this one!

Michael “Maranara” Maragliano

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.