Few cities in the world offer such an abundant selection of outdoor activities so close to the urban center — 43% of Scottsdale’s land area is dedicated as open space. Hikers, mountain bikers, and rock climbers love its desert landscape and mountainous terrain. Nature buffs and bird watchers appreciate the city’s vast, undeveloped desert preserves and parks, where it’s not uncommon to cross paths with a lizard, desert cottontail, or even a bald eagle. Even less-active outdoor lovers will appreciate the opportunity to simply take in the views at the natural oases or simply spend some time soaking up rays at expansive resort pools.
Kayaking the Salt River
There’s more to the Sonoran Desert than mountains and cacti. The Salt River runs through the Valley of the Sun, and this critical waterway provides a verdant habitat for wildlife — you’ll spot wild horses, otters, bald eagles, and more. REI Co-op Adventures organizes full- and half-day kayaking excursions with educated and easy-to-talk-to guides. There’s no better way to bask in the magic, tranquility, and diverse landscapes of the desert than an exciting float down the Salt River.
Horseback Riding in the Sonoran Desert
There’s nothing more western than saddling up a horse, donning cowboy boots, and leaving a dust trail behind your trot. Mac Donald’s Ranch offers just that. The ranch — which is styled to look like an old-west ghost town — has well-trained and well-taken care of horses ready to take you into the surrounding 1,280 acres of dramatic desert landscape.
A road up through Camelback Mountain
Even if you’re not a hiker, this Valley of the Sun icon is a must-see landmark. Those who are in shape, though, should scale the popular Echo Canyon Summit Trail, which starts at the “camel’s head.” Be forewarned: It’s not an easy climb, but the citywide views and sculptural rock formations, like the 80-foot-tall Praying Monk, make the effort more than worthwhile.
Desert Bathing at the Botanical Garden
With some 50,000 cacti, succulents, agaves, shrubs, and trees, the Desert Botanical Garden may be the world’s finest collection of desert plants. Try to come early in the day or late in the evening, when the sunlight is incredible, or for one of the seasonal events like springtime wildflowers or evening luminarias during the holidays.
