Just because you might be going across the country, this doesn’t mean you need to leave your beloved Fido behind. When you go somewhere that has tons of outdoor parks, trails, hiking access, and private yards and gardens, you can easily bring your best four-legged friend to come and have fun with you. Keep reading to see why Scottsdale is the ideal destination for dog lovers who can’t bear to be separated from their pets for more than a few days.
Head to Tom’s Thumb Trail
Lace up your hiking boots, bring a backpack filled with dog treats and water, and set out on foot to Tom’s Thumb Trail in Scottsdale. This popular and dog-friendly hiking path right near the middle of the city is great for an early morning workout and giving your dog a scenic and exciting walk that will help tire them out for the rest of the day.
This picturesque hike climbs over 1,200 feet throughout the path, making it a top choice to get a great workout, break a sweat, and look out over the far-reaching vistas just below you. This out-and-back trail is also a smart choice for dog owners, as you can rest assured you won’t get lost on this well-signed and here-to-there trail.
While walking with your pup, make sure to keep an eye out for nearby flora and fauna, blooming trees, bright flowers, and the nearby mountain ranges. Bring your camera to take photos and videos of the Four Peaks as you catch glimpses through the breaks in the trees and while you are walking in wide open meadows.
Plan to spend at least 1.5-2 hours on this 4-mile trail with your dog and plan accordingly. We think this train is moderate/difficult but offers tons of scenic photos and great vistas to take breaks and rest.
Walk or Bike the Arizona Canal Trail
Put your dog on a leash and head to the nearby Arizona Canal Trail to walk through the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, meander over the numerous bridges, and play fetch in some of the grassy areas that flank the sides of this trail. The Arizona Canal Trail features paved walkways, unpaved paths, and grassy parks perfect for spending time with your pup off the beaten path.
We love how this trail is outside of the hustle and bustle of downtown Scottsdale, while still providing close proximity to tons of things to do before and after walking the trail, like going to get brunch, heading to a nearby cafe, venturing to a grassy park, or going shopping on the main street.
Make sure as you walk along the Arizona Canal Trail that you take a detour to Scottsdale Waterfront to sit in the shade and look out over the water, view the public art installations dotting the walkway, and marvel at the Soleri Bridge.
Wake Up Early to Go to Sunrise Trailhead
This aptly named Sunrise Trailhead is one of the best early morning hikes that we can think of in the entire state. Set your alarm early in the morning, lace up your runners or hiking shoes, and bring your dog’s leash as you go to this beautiful trail in the heart of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
This exciting and intense out-and-back trail features rocky outcrops, different terrain, far-reaching views, canyon vistas, and switchbacks, ensuring you and your pup get a great workout early in the morning. You will feel great about this challenging path once you have reached the incredible summit.
The summit features lush cacti, green forests, flora, fauna, desert animals, flying birds, and Palo Verde trees, giving you a lush color palette for photos and a nice, long drink break.
Take a Half-Day Trip to the Desert Botanical Garden
Last but not least, you will be pleased to find out that your dog is available to go to the Desert Botanical Garden. We know that it can be hard to find daily activities that allow a pup, but the Desert Organic Garden hosts Dog Days at the Garden where you can bring your beloved friend with you to walk along the scenic trails, admire the beauty of the flowers, and smell the garden.
Head there on any Dog Days at the Garden to meet other dog lovers and experience this incredible place with your four-legged companion. Then, stop for a snack and some water for your dogs at the Patio Cafe after a long walk through the desert-like atmosphere.
