The Bajada Nature Trail in Scottsdale is a fantastic easy trail for kids and gives an up-close look at desert life.
While we love long hikes, sometimes you just want to stroll and enjoy the scenery or have an option for out-of-town guests with littles. One of our favorites is the Bajada Nature Trail! It’s a hard-packed gravel loop trail of about 0.7 miles with signs sharing more about local plant and animal life.
Toddlers can explore at their own pace (just don’t touch the cactus – and there are plenty right along the trail). Or you can easily push a stroller. Either way, the mountain scenery is beautiful. You can snap some amazing photos too!
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve has other trail options too. For a moderate hike, try the Gateway Loop Trail of 4.4 miles. You can also take the Desert Park Trail to Horseshoe Trail to Saguaro Trail for a 1.6-mile loop. Grab a map at the trailhead and explore!
There is no fee to park or hike at the Bajada Nature Trail in Scottsdale. Restrooms and water are available, huge shade structure and benches are available at the trailhead, along with an awesome raised map of the mountains. And for a fun and yummy food option after hiking, try The Thumb BBQ nearby!
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
18333 N Thompson Peak Pkwy
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
