Tom's Thumb Hiking - Guided Scottsdale Desert Trek

Tour Highlights

• The Thumb: Reach the base of the iconic 200-foot granite monolith.
• Expert Guidance: Hike with professional guides certified as WFR or EMT responders.
• Summit Views: See unobstructed vistas of the Valley and Four Peaks.
• Desert Ecology: Observe native Sonoran Desert plants and local wildlife.

Tour Itinerary

The journey begins at the Tom's Thumb Trailhead, where your professional guide provides a safety briefing and checks water supplies before heading out. You will quickly begin the steady ascent up well-maintained switchbacks, gaining over 1,200 feet of elevation while passing large granite boulders and diverse cactus species. Your guide will point out geological features and ensure the pace is steady as the Valley of the Sun opens up below you.

Once you reach the Tom's Thumb summit area, you will have time to explore the granite monolith and take in 360-degree views of Four Peaks and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. After a trail snack and photos at the summit, the group begins the 2.5-mile descent back to the trailhead. The return trip offers a different perspective of the McDowell Mountains before arriving back at the meeting point to conclude the adventure.

Pricing

1 hiker: $258
2-3 hikers: $145 per person
4-10 hikers: $129 per person
11+ hikers: Contact us for group rates.

All pricing includes permitting and land use fees.

Add-ons:
Transportation to/from hotel (when available): $295
Private tour upgrade: $200

Requirements

• Skill Level: Moderate to Strenuous; requires a high level of physical fitness.
• Minimum Age: 12 years old. For parties with children under 12, please reach out through our contact page.
• Walking: Approximately 5 miles roundtrip.
• Elevation: ~1,236 feet gain; max elevation 3,925 feet.
• Special Requirements: Closed-toe shoes are required. Not recommended for those with cardiovascular issues.

What's Included

• Guide: Professional WFR or EMT certified guide.
• Snacks: Healthy trail snacks provided.
• Hydration: Bottled water provided.
• Safety: First aid kit and sunscreen.
• Permits: Preserve entry and commercial access fees.

What to Bring

• Closed-toe footwear such as running, cross-training, or hiking shoes. No sandals, please.
• Long-sleeved layers for sun protection and in case it's chilly.
• Sunglasses.
• Hat or cap.

Season & Departure Times

This tour operates year-round with seasonally adjusted departure times. In the cooler months (October through April), departures are typically between 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM. In the warmer months (May through September), departures shift earlier — typically between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM — to beat the heat. Your guide will contact you ahead of the tour to confirm your exact rendezvous time.

Important Notes

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED: Please note that there is no drinking water available at the trailhead; please arrive with 2-3L of water. Your guide will contact you before the tour with specific meeting details. Closed-toe shoes are required for this hike.

Check the National Weather Service forecast for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve before you go.

Cancellation Policy

This tour has a 72-hour cancellation policy. Please read your confirmation email for details.