Hiking, Biking & Trail Guide - 27

RECOMMENDED HIKES
TOM'S THUMB, FELDSPAR, MESQUITE CANYON LOOP
Feldspar is one of the three minerals that make up the granite boulders prominent in this
area of the Preserve, which winds along the northern slope of the McDowell Mountains.
This easy hike also provides dramatic views of Mesquite Canyon.
Route: From the trailhead, head south on the Tom's Thumb Trail, then left on the Feldspar Trail, then left
again on the Mesquite Canyon Trail, back to the Tom's Thumb Trail. Take a quick right, and you will return
to the trailhead. Note: You can extend this hike to 1.4mi (2.3km) plus 80ft (24.3m) elevation change if you
stay on the Feldspar Trail until it connects with the Marcus Landslide Trail. Take a left on the Marcus
Landslide Trail to return to the trailhead.
LENGTH:
ELEVATION CHANGE:
DI FFICULTY:
USE:
1.1mi / 1.8km (loop)
150ft / 45.7m
l Easy
Hiking, biking, climbing, horseback riding
MARCUS LANDSLIDE INTERPRETIVE TRAIL
This beautiful trail has interpretive signs explaining the origin of the Marcus landslide,
one of the largest ever discovered in Arizona. Highlights include tremendous views of
the little-seen eastern side of the McDowell Mountains and an interesting area of huge
boulders. Add an additional 0.8mi (1.3km) of distance and 200ft (61m) of elevation
change if you take the loop trail on top of the landslide.
Route: Follow the signs to this trail from the south end of the parking area. Go east on the Marcus Landslide
Trail and stay straight on the trail past various junctions on the right and left. Return the way you came.
LENGTH:
ELEVATION CHANGE:
DI FFICULTY:
USE:
3.0mi / 4.8km (round trip)
280ft / 85m
u Moderately Difficult
Hiking, biking*, climbing, horseback riding* (*final loop on the Landslide
is foot traffic only)
TOM'S THUMB TRAIL TO THE BASE OF TOM'S THUMB
This steep trail climbs through fantastic boulder formations into an area high in the
McDowell Mountains that showcases many unique plants and provides some of the finest
views in the Preserve. Please note that seasonal access restrictions may be in place at
the base of the thumb (approximately March through June) due to nesting birds of prey.
Route: From the Tom's Thumb Trailhead, head south on the Tom's Thumb Trail. After following the TT
Trail for approximately 2.0mi (3.2km), you will reach the TT7 emergency marker where you will turn
right and follow the 0.3mi (0.5km) spur trail to the base of Tom's Thumb.
LENGTH:
ELEVATION CHANGE:
DI FFICULTY:
USE:
4.6 mi / 7.4km (round trip)
1,100ft / 335.3m
u Difficult
Hiking, biking*, climbing, horseback riding* (*experienced riders only)
ExperienceScottsdale.com
27

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Hiking, Biking & Trail Guide

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