Tom's Thumb Trailhead

Hiking area · Scottsdale ·

Tom's Thumb Trailhead

Hiking area · Scottsdale ·

Hiking with challenging trails, scenic views, unique boulders

Information

12943 E Paraiso Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Get directions

@travelleisure

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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

27,057 Postcards · 5,401 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

Vishal Mhatre

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.

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.

Ashley Hamilton

Google

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

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.

Michal

Google

Great location, very nice trails.big parking lot. Hidden gem. can’t ask for more! Go visit

Steve Valkenaar

Google

Great hike, great views, well maintained, nice trail head with restrooms and information available a benefit of living in Az. It is a challenging hike from parking to top at 4 miles.1359 elevation, but lots of view points, wide trail, so about anybody can do this trail if they take their time. The only caution would be the trail is steep in sections with hard packed little ball bearing type sand on top... so hiking boots, trail running shoes with aggressive tread is highly recommended... Road running shoes can be slippery in the steep sections. For the experienced, it is a great trail run that can be expanded upon with additional loops at the top...make it an 8 mile, 15 mile or more.

Michelle Iszick

Google

I had an amazing time on this trail. Parking is clean, and restrooms are available, but no sinks to wash your hands. Maps are available for all surrounding trails, including rock climbing capabilities. Paved all the way to the trail head car accessible. No shade covering for vehicles. If you get started super early (4-6), you'll have Shade the first part of the trail that inclined 2.5 mi to the saddle. The second part of the trail is easier than the first part, not so inclined, and more rock formations. There's trail signs on the trail to keep you on track. Take plenty of water and electrolytes with snacks. Some breeze... but heat is hot when there is no breeze. Enjoy.