Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
272.00 ft (82.91 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
4.50 mi (7.24 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

One of the most popular trails in McDowell Mountain Regional Park, the Scenic Trail is a wonderful loop that offers great desert scenery and varied terrain within the ability of most hikers.

The Scenic Trail begins at the Pemberton Trailhead parking, not far from the campground and visitor center, and the last section of the loop is actually on the Pemberton Trail. Heading up the Pemberton Trail from the north side of the parking area, the Scenic Trail branches off to the right in just a couple hundred yards or so. The first part of the trail is flat and crosses some beautiful Colorado desert landscape as it approaches the Lousley Hills to the east. Shortly after the junction with the Cinch Trail, the Scenic Trail heads up into the hills, offering increasingly nice views to the south. Eventually the trail reaches the ridge and follows this north for a few miles. The views from the ridge are awesome in all directions, with massive saguaro cacti dotting the landscape. The trail winds around the end of the hills and drops down to meet the Pemberton Trail down below for the last leg back.

This trail is popular with hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers alike. It is important to keep aware of others using the trail to avoid accidents. As always in the desert, avoid brushing up against cacti and watch out for rattlesnakes!

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

State Park Fee

Pros

Moderate grade. Gorgeous desert scenery and mountain views.

Cons

Hikers need to be aware of fast bikers.

Trailhead Elevation

1,700.00 ft (518.16 m)

Features

Bird watching
Wildlife
Big vistas
Wildflowers

Suitable for

Biking
Horseback

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

McDowell Mountain Regional Park
Superstition Mountains Area, Mesa, Arizona

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