Fraesfield Trailhead
Gateway to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, offering accessible trails, challenging mountain biking, and stunning desert vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the desert heat
Fraesfield Trailhead
Best Time
Escape the desert heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, offering accessible trails, challenging mountain biking, and stunning desert vistas.
"Spectacular part with miles and miles of MTB trails. Really just a fun and awesome ride for a couple of hours."
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
The desert sun is no joke! Stay hydrated on all your hikes.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Camino Campana Trail
Fraesfield Trailhead
Experience this ADA-accessible trail, a testament to thoughtful design and community effort. Perfect for all abilities.

McDowell Sonoran Preserve Views
Various points along the trails
Soak in the expansive desert vistas, saguaro cacti, and distant mountain ranges. A photographer's dream.

Mountain Biking Network
Extensive trail system
Miles of dedicated mountain biking trails offer thrilling rides for all skill levels. A must-do for enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
The desert sun is no joke! Stay hydrated on all your hikes.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
🚴 Mountain Biker's Paradise
Explore the extensive network of trails designed for an exhilarating ride.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Trails
Leashed furry friends are welcome to enjoy the desert scenery with you.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
The desert sun is no joke! Stay hydrated on all your hikes.
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety.
🚴 Mountain Biker's Paradise
Explore the extensive network of trails designed for an exhilarating ride.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Trails
Leashed furry friends are welcome to enjoy the desert scenery with you.
🤝 Trail Steward Insights
Chat with the friendly trail stewards for local knowledge and trail tips.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Fraesfield Trailhead for its stunning desert scenery and extensive trail network, particularly for mountain biking. The accessibility of the Camino Campana Trail is a highlight for many. Some note occasional air traffic noise and power lines as minor drawbacks.
"It was great to enjoy this first full day of Spring! It was great loop hike. The fur kids loved it."
Greg K
"Spectacular part with miles and miles of MTB trails. Really just a fun and awesome ride for a couple of hours. If you're an MTB Rider, it's a must do. Strongly suggest you booking with a good guide, like REI. Our trail host was an MTB racer and super fit and very accommodating."
Dan Barzel
"Explored this park on a chilly day with a lot of cloud cover that was very picturesque. The trail is easy to follow and mostly flat. A few puddles here and there but the recent rain didn't do much damage. Pretty peaceful - only came across a handful of mountain bikers and hikers (on New Year's Day observed). Only downsides: surprised by the amount of air traffic noise and wish the power lines weren't in the way of the views."
Katrina Kadyszewski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fraesfield Trailhead is located in Scottsdale, Arizona, within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors use GPS navigation to find the trailhead.
Yes, Fraesfield Trailhead is generally easy to find, especially with GPS. It's a well-known access point for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
The best routes depend on your starting point in Scottsdale. Typically, you'll navigate via local roads leading into the preserve. Check your preferred navigation app for real-time traffic and the most direct path.
Public transportation options to trailheads in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve can be limited. It's recommended to check with local Scottsdale transit authorities for the most up-to-date information, though driving is the most common method.
Yes, ride-sharing services or personal drop-offs are possible at Fraesfield Trailhead. Ensure your driver is familiar with the location within the preserve.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Fraesfield Trailhead and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is free. There are no admission fees required to access the trails.
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve, including Fraesfield Trailhead, is typically open from sunrise to sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official Scottsdale Parks and Recreation website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
Parking at Fraesfield Trailhead is free. There are designated parking areas available for visitors.
While Fraesfield Trailhead itself doesn't offer direct tour bookings, organizations like REI sometimes offer guided mountain biking tours that may start or pass through this area. It's best to book these in advance.
No special permits are generally required for recreational activities like hiking and biking at Fraesfield Trailhead. Standard preserve rules apply.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Fraesfield Trailhead offers access to a variety of trails. The Camino Campana Trail is ADA-accessible. For more challenging hikes, you can connect to longer loops and trails within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Absolutely! Fraesfield Trailhead is a popular starting point for mountain bikers, with access to miles of dedicated MTB trails like the Latigo Trail and Whiskey Bottle Trail.
Yes, restrooms are available at Fraesfield Trailhead, which is convenient for longer visits.
You might spot desert wildlife such as lizards, various bird species, and possibly coyotes or javelinas from a distance. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
Yes, the Camino Campana Trail is specifically designed for accessibility and is suitable for families with strollers or young children. Other trails offer varying levels of difficulty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Fraesfield Trailhead is located within a natural preserve, so there are no dining facilities directly on-site. You'll need to drive a short distance into Scottsdale for restaurants and cafes.
While there are no designated picnic areas with tables, you can enjoy a picnic on the grounds, provided you pack out all your trash. It's a great way to refuel after a hike.
Scottsdale offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes and burger joints to upscale restaurants featuring Southwestern and international cuisine.
Yes, it's highly recommended to bring your own snacks and plenty of water, as there are no concessions available at the trailhead.
Some restaurants in North Scottsdale might offer desert views, but these are typically a short drive away from the preserve itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The desert landscape, saguaro cacti, and panoramic mountain views offer fantastic photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national and state parks and preserves to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check with Scottsdale Parks and Recreation for specific drone regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert vistas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light photography.
Look for unique saguaro cactus formations and viewpoints offering sweeping desert panoramas. The Camino Campana trail also provides accessible scenic spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the accessible trail, families can enjoy shorter loop hikes. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and keep an eye out for desert critters like lizards and birds. The open spaces provide room for kids to explore and burn energy in a beautiful natural setting.
🚴 Mountain Bikers
Consider planning a loop that connects multiple trails for a longer, more varied ride. For those seeking an enhanced experience or local insights, booking a guided tour is highly recommended. Always prioritize safety by wearing a helmet, carrying repair kits, and staying hydrated.
🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & Strollers
Many visitors enjoy creating their own loops by combining shorter trails. The relatively flat terrain in many areas makes it easy to enjoy the landscape without strenuous effort. It's a peaceful escape to soak in the Sonoran Desert's beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Designing for Accessibility: The Camino Campana Trail
This trail is a prime example of thoughtful design, ensuring that the beauty of the Sonoran Desert is accessible to a wider audience. Its smooth surface and gentle gradients make it suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and those who prefer a less strenuous walk. The project highlights a commitment to creating welcoming public spaces.
Visitors often praise the trail for its ease of use and the opportunity it provides for everyone to connect with nature. It’s a valuable addition to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, demonstrating that outdoor recreation can be enjoyed by many.
Mountain Biking Paradise: Trails and Tips
Many riders recommend exploring loops that combine different trails for a dynamic riding experience. For those new to the area or seeking expert guidance, booking a tour with a local guide or company like REI can enhance the adventure. Guides can provide insights into the best routes and ensure a safe, enjoyable ride.
When planning your ride, remember to carry plenty of water, wear appropriate safety gear, and be mindful of other trail users. The desert can be unforgiving, so preparation is key to a great mountain biking day.
The Importance of Trail Stewards
Engaging with trail stewards can significantly enrich your visit. They can offer recommendations for trails, point out interesting natural features, and provide insights into conservation efforts. Their passion for the preserve is evident, and they contribute to a positive visitor experience.
Visitors frequently mention the friendliness and helpfulness of the trail stewards, highlighting them as a key reason for enjoying their time at Fraesfield Trailhead and the surrounding preserve.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit