The Scottsdale Nature Area is a little pocket of trees alongside a golf course, and the Indian Bend Wash Trail. The 9 acres is open to all, and perfect for little ones to safely wander and explore without the commitment of a hike!
We love the variety of trees (we may have climbed a couple), and flowers blooming in spring time. The trail is partially shaded too! There are two sitting areas/ramadas amid the trees if you need a snack break.
There are a handful of plaques listing various vegetation growing in the nature area. We’ve also seen little animals prints in the walk at times (sometimes the dirt can cover the sidewalk). It’s a simple place to relax and give little ones freedom to explore. Look carefully, and you may find little shells at the base of the trees, near the canal.
This area also runs along the canal! We saw a family of ducks during one visit, down by the bridge. The canal path continues beyond the bridge, but this is the official end of the nature area.
As mentioned before, the Indian Bend Wash trail along runs parallel to this nature area. It’s one of our favorite bike paths in Phoenix! Watch little ones on this path, however – some cyclists don’t always sound their bell or call a warning when approaching.
The Scottsdale Nature Area has no official parking lot. There is a shopping area to the north, which has plenty of available parking; park by the UPS store or Goldman’s Deli for easy access to the path. You can skirt the golf course using the underpass, and then wander the nature area and canal. See map for details. There are restrooms at this location as well.
Scottsdale Nature Area
6901 N Hayden Rd
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
A list of other nature areas can be found here!