Brown’s Ranch/Wrangler Loop at McDowell Sonoran Preserve
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I am not a big fan of hiking in the heat, but if you are going to hike during the Phoenix summer months, you need to get out here early and keep it short. There is not a whole lot to do here during the brutal hot summer months, so I still try to get out here occasionally and hike a really short trail just to stay active. Being cooped up for too long gets boring fast and you can only go to the mall or jump in the pool so many times. My favorite place to hike in the metro is the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale. It opens pretty early (as early as 5am in the summer) and there are a number of really short trails under 3 miles.
I recommend getting here right when the preserve opens or shortly thereafter during the summer. It can get unbearably hot by 7-8am. Expect temps to already be in the 90’s by then, and when you add in the pounding sunshine, it feels at least 20 degrees hotter. One trail I really like is the Brown’s Ranch Road/Wrangler Loop. It’s not quite as scenic as the Lost Dog/Ringtail Loop, but it’s another good contender when afternoon temps soar past 100 on a daily basis for months on end.
We hiked this trail on a hot July summer morning. It was even a bit humid as this is the monsoon season. We got here a bit late 8am and only saw 2 mountain bikers. Not the best time to hike, but we have a hard time resisting all the gorgeous desert trails especially since we just moved back here 2 months ago. Hiking is my favorite thing to do in this area so I have a hard to avoiding any outdoor activity for months at a time. Plus, I prefer being more active in the summer months. If you do head out this time of year, keep in mind that dehydration and heat exhaustion are real concerns. Also do not bring your dogs – it is not safe to do so this time of year.
An easy choice for first timers
This is a great trail for beginners as there is barely any elevation gain (just 67 feet). The trail is just 2.7 miles and should take under an hour. It’s one of the easiest trails I’ve hiked within this preserve thus far. Despite it being pretty much completely flat, there are some nice views of Brown’s Mountain and other mountains in the region. There are a few ugly views of power lines in the beginning, but after that it is pretty scenic.
Like all hikes in this area, you will get to take an upclose look at many of the diverse cacti species which live in the Sonoran Desert. I will never tire of seeing gorgeous Saguaro cacti and there are plenty on this trail.
The one thing I do not like about the trail system here is the poor markings. While they do mark every turn with a trail marker, they do not color code or give each trail unique names. It would be a lot easier to mark individual trails say as the “Saguaro Loop” or mark it with a yellow dot or something. Instead, you have to look at the map at the entrance and follow certain directions. You have to remember a lot of turns which isn’t fun when it’s already hot out.
For this trail, you follow the signs for Brown’s Ranch Road, Wrangler, Upper Ranch Road, and then Brown’s Ranch Road. It can be really confusing to remember all these different turns especially when there are similar names for everything. I suggest giving each trail a specific name and using these for the trail markers. If this is your first time, definitely look at the trail map closely and take a picture just in case you get confused.
Rattlesnake safety
You will see many signs at the preserve informing you that snakes are present everywhere. Do not mess around with any wildlife or put your hands under any rocks. Do not wear headphones – this is so you can hear the snake rattling. Fortunately, this is a wider trail so you will not be brushing up on any bushes. The park recommends wearing long pants and staying vigilant about your surroundings.
Surprisingly, even though I’ve hiked hundreds of miles in the desert, I have never seen a snake on any trail. Bobcats and javelina, yes, but never a snake (thankfully!). Here’s some tips from the preserve on what to do if you see one.
Heat safety
Hiking in the desert is a lot different than hiking anywhere else. Before relocating to Phoenix this year, I lived in Tucson for over 2 years. I never got used to the heat no matter how long I lived in the area and how many trails I hiked. It is a myth that you get used to the heat.
Because of the real concerns of heat exhaustion and dehydration you have to be really prepared. You have to get out here early, keep it shorter than normal, avoid most summer hiking, make sure you are replenishing electrolytes, and bring plenty of water. Check more of my tips for safe hiking in the desert, accumulated after years of hitting the trails. On a side note, also be careful around cacti. I got stung by a notorious jumping cholla in Mesa once – it took forever to pull the needles out and it hurts really bad! Don’t get too close to these plants.
Other options at this trailhead
Jane Rau Interpretive trail: This is one of the preserves only wheelchair accessible trails. It’s also one of the shorter trails at just 0.5 miles and features only 37 feet of elevation gain. There are interpretive signs and benches to relax, so this is another great trail for anyone new to the desert. The views are actually pretty outstanding considering the short distance – even better than the Brown’s Ranch trail in my opinion!
Cholla Mountain Loop: This is the hardest hike at this trailhead. It is 7 miles with 300 feet in elevation gain. Don’t hike this one during the summer at all costs. There are more impressive views of the Amphitheater and Cathedral Rock formations, but it’s an intense terk.
Directions and additional info
- The trailhead is located at: 30301 N Alma School Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ
- Parking is free.
- Trail open to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.
- Amenities: Restroom, drinking fountain
Cattle ranching history: On a side note, you are supposed to be able to see the remains of an early 1900’s cattle ranch (barbed wire, etc.) but I didn’t notice anything. You can read more about the preserve’s history if you are interested.
What else to do in Scottsdale?
If you are looking for more to do in the area, there are some great museums and indoor attractions you can enjoy.
For a great lunch post-hike, I recommend Cien Agave. It’s located in the touristy Old Town area, but the food is great and I love the quirky decor. Best fajitas I’ve had in the area thus far!
If you are seeking a great cup of joe, I recommend Press Coffee. They have a nice location on the waterfront. There is a nice little trail here with plenty of greenery (for another day of course!).
If you want to learn more about the area, check out the Western Spirit Museum. It’s located in Old Town.
For a nice cool down in the AC, take a stroll around the Odysea Aquarium. It’s one of the biggest in the Southwest. I love all the cool features here like the fish tank escalator.
For more to do throughout the Phoenix metro and elsewhere in the state, please take a browse around my Arizona Travel Guide.
