Nestled within the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale, Arizona, offers many opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the American Southwest.

One of the most popular and breathtaking hiking destinations in the area is Tom’s Thumb Trail.

This informative and educational blog post will take you on a virtual journey through Tom’s Thumb Trail, providing insights into its history, geology, flora, fauna, and hiking tips.

• Mileage: 4.5 mile hike
• Elevation Gain: 1,192 ft
• Time: 2.0 hrs to 3.0 hours, depending on your ability
• Type of Hike: Climb, Rolling
• Things To Consider: Bring your own water; there is no water at the trailhead or on the trail
• Notes: Bring camera, the views are spectacular

Tom’s Thumb Trail is located within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a vast expanse of protected desert terrain just north of Scottsdale. The trail takes its name from a prominent rock formation at its peak, which resembles a giant thumb pointing toward the sky. This stunning geological feature is the reward for those who tackle the challenging hike, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding desert.

Tom’s Thumb Trail is known for its challenging terrain, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced hikers. The hike covers approximately 4.2 miles (6.8 kilometers) one way, with an elevation gain of around 1,300 feet (396 meters). On average, it takes hikers between 2 to 3 hours to complete the entire out-and-back trail.

1. Water: Arizona’s desert climate is hot and dry, so always carry plenty of water. A rule of thumb is one gallon (3.8 liters) of water per person for a full-day hike. There is NO water at the trailhead or on the trail. So make sure you bring water.
2. Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking boots with good traction. The rocky terrain can be unforgiving.
3. Sun Protection: Don’t forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense desert sun.
4. Trail Map: Bring a detailed trail map or a GPS device to ensure you stay on course. The trail is well-marked, but it’s always wise to have a backup navigation tool if you decide to explore and hit some other trails off of the Tom’s Thumb trail.
5. Snacks: Pack energy-boosting snacks to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
6. Proper Clothing: Dress in lightweight, moisture-wicking layers for comfort in the fluctuating desert temperatures.

The geological wonders of Tom’s Thumb Trail are a significant draw for hikers. The rugged rock formations, including Tom’s Thumb itself, were created over millions of years through the uplifting and eroding of ancient seabeds. As you ascend the trail, you’ll be treated to remarkable views of the McDowell Mountains and the Sonoran Desert.

At the summit, you’ll reach Tom’s Thumb, a gigantic granite spire that’s a popular spot for photos. It’s an ideal place to take in the panoramic vistas and marvel at the forces of nature that shaped this impressive landmark.

Despite the harsh desert environment, the Sonoran Desert is teeming with life. As you hike Tom’s Thumb Trail, keep an eye out for some of the desert’s resilient flora and fauna:

1. Saguaro Cacti: These iconic, towering cacti are prevalent in the area and can grow to be over 40 feet tall. They provide vital shelter and sustenance for various desert creatures.
2. Barrel Cacti: The round, spiky barrels dot the landscape, adding to the desert’s unique beauty.
3. Desert Wildlife: Look for desert dwellers like lizards, rattlesnakes, roadrunners, and coyotes. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them.
4. Bird Watching: The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a haven for birdwatchers, with species like the Gila woodpecker, black-throated sparrow, and Gambel’s quail commonly spotted.

The McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which houses Tom’s Thumb Trail, is the result of a community effort to preserve the natural beauty of Scottsdale’s desert landscape. In the early 1990s, local residents recognized the need to protect this unique environment from urban development. They banded together, raising funds and working with the city to establish the preserve.

Today, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve encompasses over 30,000 acres and includes numerous trails and access points for outdoor enthusiasts. Tom’s Thumb Trail is one of the crown jewels of this preservation effort.

Hiking Tom’s Thumb Trail in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a remarkable journey through the heart of the Sonoran Desert. With its challenging terrain, striking geology, unique flora and fauna, and the dedication of local preservation efforts, this trail offers an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Remember to be prepared, practice good hiking etiquette, and savor the natural beauty of this southwestern gem. Tom’s Thumb Trail is not just a hike; it’s an adventure through the diverse and captivating landscapes that make the American Southwest so extraordinary.

Heading out for an ultra run or a hike takes planning and the proper clothes, equipment, and nutrition.

There is nothing worse than finding out you forget something.

Having a checklist of your essential items is very helpful in setting yourself up for success when hitting the trail.

Below is a link to our essential hiking and ultra-running gear checklist. For each hiking and ultra-running adventure, we print out and check off the items before heading out the door.