Granite Mountain Trailhead
Explore the stunning Sonoran Desert at Granite Mountain Trailhead, offering scenic hikes, biking, and horseback riding with no entry fees.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Granite Mountain Trailhead
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the stunning Sonoran Desert at Granite Mountain Trailhead, offering scenic hikes, biking, and horseback riding with no entry fees.
"Beautiful trails in a gorgeous area! Great place for hiking, riding bicycles, and riding horses!"
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No water sources on trails. Essential for desert hikes!
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good grip is key!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Granite Mountain Loop Trail
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
A scenic 5.5-mile loop offering moderate challenge and stunning Sonoran Desert views.
Sonoran Desert Flora & Fauna
Throughout the trails
Spot saguaros, wildflowers in spring, and keep an eye out for desert wildlife.
+1
Balanced Rock
Near the loop trail
An iconic geological formation that's a popular photo spot and a testament to nature's artistry.
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
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No water sources on trails. Essential for desert hikes!
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good grip is key!
☀️ Start Early to Beat Heat
Arizona sun is intense. Early hikes are cooler and more enjoyable.
🐕 Dog-Friendly (Leashed)
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome on the trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No water sources on trails. Essential for desert hikes!
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good grip is key!
☀️ Start Early to Beat Heat
Arizona sun is intense. Early hikes are cooler and more enjoyable.
🐕 Dog-Friendly (Leashed)
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome on the trails.
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of photo ops, especially during wildflower season!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful desert scenery and well-marked trails at Granite Mountain Trailhead, making it ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. While there are no entrance fees, the lack of shade and need to bring ample water are frequently mentioned drawbacks. The old dirt road access can also be a challenge for some vehicles.
"Unlike McDowell, there's no fee. The worst part is the old dirt road, I used to access the trails. Those hills are steep! Although the return was very fast. Google asked about tickets. Like I said, there are no fees and no tickets."
roqclimber
"Beautiful trails in a gorgeous area!
Great place for hiking, riding bicycles, and riding horses!
Dogs must be on leashes!"
DOROTHY COIA
"Great flat hiking trails. There are several trails to take so you can do a mile, two, three, etc.
tons of beautiful views.
Bathroom is at the welcome center. They don’t have a hand washing station, just sanitizer, no water anywhere either. Bring your own water. It’s all exposed and best to go early to beat the heat."
Jessie Poshepny Vallery
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Granite Mountain Trailhead is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. While some older access roads might be rough, the main trailhead is generally accessible. It's part of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Yes, there is parking available at the trailhead. It can get busy on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
The trails around Granite Mountain are generally well-marked, making it easy to piece together loops. Using a trail app or map can be helpful for longer hikes.
Public transport options to trailheads in this area can be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services. Check local transit schedules for current availability.
Some older access roads might be unpaved and steep, but the main trailhead area is typically well-maintained.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, unlike some other preserves, there are no fees or tickets required for entry to the Granite Mountain Trailhead.
The trailhead and trails are typically open from sunrise to sunset. It's best to check the official McDowell Sonoran Preserve website for the most current hours.
While there aren't typically guided tours offered directly at the trailhead, local outfitters may offer guided hiking or horseback riding experiences in the area.
The main restriction is that dogs must be kept on a leash. Be aware of wildlife and trail conditions.
The Granite Mountain Trailhead and its associated trails within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve are free to access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Granite Mountain Loop Trail is generally considered moderate. It's a 5.5-mile loop with about 400 feet of elevation gain, making it accessible for many hikers.
Yes, there are bathrooms at the welcome center, but they may only have hand sanitizer and no running water. It's advisable to bring your own water.
You can expect beautiful desert vistas, saguaro forests, and unique rock formations like Balanced Rock. In spring, wildflowers add vibrant color.
Yes, it's a multi-use trail system that is popular with mountain bikers. The trails offer good flow and scenic rides.
You might encounter desert wildlife such as lizards, birds, and potentially rattlesnakes. It's important to be aware of your surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Balanced Rock is a classic photo spot. The expansive desert landscapes, especially with wildflowers in spring, and unique saguaro cacti also make for great shots.
Both sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for photography. Sunrise is also a great time to avoid the heat and crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast desert landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can help manage the bright desert sun.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check local regulations.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Never feed wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Pack extra water: This is non-negotiable in the desert.
* Start early: Beat the heat and ensure kids have enough energy.
* Keep dogs leashed: If bringing a furry family member, ensure they are well-behaved and on a leash.
* Look for wildflowers: If visiting in spring, the colorful blooms are a huge hit with kids.
* Shorten the hike: If the full loop seems too much, explore shorter connecting trails for a more relaxed experience.
🐶 Dog Owners
Key considerations for dog owners:
* Water is crucial: Dogs can dehydrate quickly in the desert heat. Bring more water than you think you'll need for both yourself and your pet.
* Paw protection: Hot sand and rocky terrain can be tough on paws. Consider dog booties or limit your hike during the hottest parts of the day.
* Trail etiquette: Be mindful of other hikers, bikers, and horses. Keep your dog close and under control.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails: Options for Every Hiker
For those seeking longer adventures or different experiences, the trail system allows for customization. You can connect to other trails to create loops of varying lengths, from a quick mile to an extensive 8-mile trek with more significant elevation changes. Redditors often share how they've pieced together 10-mile routes, highlighting the flexibility of the trail network.
When planning your hike, consider the time of year. Spring brings a spectacular display of wildflowers, transforming the desert landscape into a colorful spectacle.
However, regardless of the season, always prioritize safety by bringing ample water, wearing appropriate footwear, and starting your hike early to avoid the desert heat. Wildlife Encounters and Desert Safety
Desert safety is paramount. The most critical advice from visitors is to bring plenty of water. There are no water sources on the trails, and dehydration can occur quickly, especially during warmer months.
Be aware of the trail conditions. While many trails are well-marked, some can be rocky or uneven. Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are essential.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit