As winter descends upon the rest of the country, Scottsdale, Arizona, emerges as a haven for those seeking a sun-soaked escape. With its mild temperatures, sunny days, and plenty of outdoor adventures, Scottsdale in winter is one of my favorite places to escape the cold weather in Colorado.
When I was asked to come to experience Scottsdale in December last year, I was a little hesitant as I am not a golfer, and all I have ever heard about Scottsdale was about its golf courses and golf tournaments. And while it is a top destination for its golf courses and nightlife, Scottsdale is so much more than that. Enjoy the beauty of the desert without breaking a sweat and discover these fun outdoor activities with a trip to Scottsdale this winter.
Where is Scottsdale?
Spanning 31 miles north to south and 8 miles east to west, which equals less than one square mile, Scottsdale is small in comparison to its neighbor, Phoenix. Scottsdale is located in the northeastern part of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Nestled in the picturesque Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale is relatively flat and is bordered by Phoenix to the west and the McDowell Mountains to the east, providing a backdrop of natural beauty.
Outdoor Activities Scottsdale in Winter
See the Sonoran Desert
Scottsdale in winter brings pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Consider embarking on a guided hike or a hot air balloon ride to witness the flora and fauna that thrive in this arid landscape.
Hiking in Scottsdale
Hiking in Scottsdale is easily accessible from any end of town. Two protected preserves, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve are the best places to start when looking for hiking trails in Scottsdale.
Covering 30,500 acres and boasting over 200 miles of trails, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve stands as a permanently safeguarded desert habitat. It holds the distinction of being the largest urban park in the United States. Encompassing Scottsdale’s McDowell Mountains and the Sonoran Desert, this expansive area offers both tourists and residents an opportunity to experience desert life up close.
Explore the Gateway Trailhead, which serves as the primary access point to the preserve. This 4.4-mile loop showcases eco-friendly architecture, a clearly defined gentle pathway, and breathtaking scenic views. For a quieter experience, consider the less-crowded five-mile Granite Mountain Loop or the equally captivating five-mile Inspiration Point trail.
Another notable hike within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve (in the northern region) is Tom’s Thumb Trail. One of the first trails in the preserve’s northern region, Tom’s Thumb is a roughly 4-mile hike, gaining 1,000 feet elevation. Expect some steep climbs up the rocky hillside, along with views of saguaro cacti and views of Scottsdale and mountain peaks hovering on the horizon. We went in early March on a Saturday and was very crowded. I would plan to arrive early to beat the heat and the crowds. There are restrooms and plenty of parking at the trailhead.
A note about the Saguaro Cacti
While trekking through Scottsdale, one cannot help but notice the impressive saguaro cacti, towering up to 60 feet in height. These gradual growers may take up to 10 years to attain just one inch in height. Some of these giants can age to be 100 years old or even older, making them iconic representatives of the Sonoran Desert. It’s important to note that, similar to all cacti, these majestic plants should not be touched or harmed.
Due to their slow growth, these cacti are safeguarded from destruction. Exercise caution to avoid getting pricked by their needles, and be mindful that the city may impose a hefty fine of $10,000 for any harm or removal of these protected plants.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Soar above the Sonoran Desert in a hot air balloon for a truly magical experience. Winter’s clear skies and mild temperatures create perfect conditions for a sunrise or sunset balloon ride. Revel in the breathtaking panoramic views of the desert and mountains as you peacefully glide through the air.
At 5,000 feet in the air, it’s easy to gain a better understanding of the desert’s expansiveness and grandeur. Hot Air Expeditions provides morning rides every day throughout the year and afternoon rides seasonally from November to March. Your expedition package includes breakfast or evening hors d’oeuvres served promptly after the balloon ride. Additionally, a post-flight champagne toast is included, following the tradition of hot air balloon adventures.
Desert Botanical Gardens
Extend your exploration of the Sonoran Desert by visiting the Desert Botanical Garden. Immerse yourself in the vibrant life of the desert, surrounded by over 50,000 desert plants set against the backdrop of the red rocks of the Papago Buttes.
Wander along five distinct trails to discover the unique splendor of the Sonoran Desert. Encounter the towering saguaros and the impressive 35-foot tall cardon cactus in the Heritage Garden, as well as the captivating succulents and vibrant wildflowers. With plenty to see, be mindful of potential prickly encounters, so proceed with caution!
Given the delicate nature of the Sonoran Desert, over a third of its cacti face the threat of extinction. This places the Cactus family as the fifth most endangered group of living organisms. The Desert Botanical Garden is at the forefront of spearheading a global conservation strategy to address this critical concern.
Kayak the Salt River
Kayaking in Scottsdale was not what I expected in terms of outdoor activities. The Salt River, spanning approximately 200 miles within Arizona, stands out as a favored recreational spot. Situated in the expansive Tonto National Forest, the largest among Arizona’s six national forests and the ninth-largest in the nation, this river provides a plethora of outdoor activities for individuals in the Scottsdale/Phoenix vicinity.
I enjoyed a gentle drift along the serene Lower Salt River, with the ease of class-one rapids while surrounded by uninterrupted vistas of the surrounding mountains. This picturesque setting includes the Superstition Mountains and the unique Four Peaks, boasting an elevation of approximately 7,600 feet. Originating from the Northern Arizona mountains, the Salt River teems with wildlife, featuring a herd of approximately 200 wild horses occasionally spotted along the riverbanks. Popular activities in this scenic locale encompass kayaking, paddleboarding, and leisurely floating.
ATV Tour in Scottsdale
One of the best things I did when visiting Scottsdale in winter was taking an ATV tour. Rev up for an exhilarating off-road adventure by booking an ATV tour with Desert Monsters in Scottsdale. This outdoor outfitter offers guided ATV rides through some of the most scenic and rugged desert landscapes surrounding the Phoenix and Scottsdale areas. You’ll climb aboard a powerful all-terrain vehicle and follow experienced guides over bumpy trails and winding paths in places like the Tonto National Forest or Bradshaw Mountains.
Beginner-friendly automatic ATVs are available, making this an ideal excursion for riders of all skill levels, like myself. It was my first time driving an ATV and I did just fine. We went just after a rainstorm, so the trails and roads didn’t kick up any dust. If you can, try to plan a ride after a fresh rain to avoid dust on your face. But if you enjoy the thrill of kicking up dust, they provide everything you need to stay protected. Desert Monsters provides all the necessary gear like helmets, goggles, and bandanas to keep you safe and comfortable.
We went at dusk, so desert sunset views filled the landscape along with towering saguaro cacti, dramatic rock formations, and panoramic vistas. Tours take about two hours, with two 15-minute breaks. Allowing enough time to get out, take pictures and soak up the beauty of the Tonto National Forest.
Biking
Whether you seek an urban cycling path or desire to explore more challenging trails, Scottsdale and its environs offer a plethora of biking options. Enjoy a relaxed journey along the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, stretching 15 miles from Scottsdale down to Tempe Town Lakes. This route, originally part of an ancient canal system dating back 7,000 years, now serves as a paved pathway for cyclists, joggers, and rollerbladers.
For individuals seeking a bit of adventure, Scottsdale boasts numerous mountain biking trails. A fantastic starting point is Brown’s Ranch, equipped with four trailheads that open up to an extensive network of 165 miles of trails. A local recommendation is to steer clear of trails labeled with the term “wash,” as these tend to be challenging and sandy terrain for bikers.
For all your outdoor adventure trips and rentals, visit the Rei Co-op Adventure Center in Arizona.
Explore Old Town Scottsdale
If getting outdoors is more about shopping or dining then a walk around Old Town Scottsdale is a must. Situated amidst nine easily navigable neighborhoods, you’ll discover a diverse array of shops, restaurants, museums, historical sites, public art, and art galleries, along with a vibrant nightclub scene. This creates an ideal fusion of contemporary chic and Old West charm that caters to a wide range of preferences.
Explore the arts district, where numerous art galleries welcome visitors, staying open late every Thursday evening for the weekly art walk. Step beyond traditional gallery spaces by participating in the public art walking tour, featuring over 10 diverse installations. Alternatively, indulge in a shopping spree at the Fashion Square Mall. Dive into the rich history of Old Town by venturing into the historic district and taking the Scottsdale walking tour.
When it comes to nightlife, Old Town Scottsdale is undeniably a hotspot for a good time. Whether you’re drawn to the energetic nightclub scene, such as ‘the vortex,’ or prefer the cozy ambiance of neighborhood wine bars like Scapegoat Beer and Wine, there’s something for every taste. For a taste of the Old West, make a stop at the Rusty Spur Saloon in Historic Old Town. With 70 years of history, this classic country bar has been delighting patrons with beers and cocktails, creating a lively atmosphere filled with hooting and hollering—proof that they know a thing or two about having a blast.
Dining in Old Town
Boasting a selection of over 700 restaurants, Scottsdale offers a plethora of dining options. In the northern part of Scottsdale, discover a variety of restaurants and shops nestled in strip malls and shopping centers. As you head south into Old Town Scottsdale, you’ll encounter a diverse range of eateries, bars, gelato shops, and more, each exuding a downtown vibe to cater to a wide array of tastes.
For pizza and beer enthusiasts, explore Craft 64, where you can savor artisan wood-fired pizzas alongside a choice of over 35 local Arizona craft beers on tap. Situated in the oldest remaining home in Old Town Scottsdale, this restaurant takes pride in sourcing its produce, dairy, and meats locally. Furthermore, they craft their mozzarella cheese and fresh dough in-house daily.
Experience a unique take on modern Mexican cuisine at Diego Pops, where traditional favorites like chips and salsa and guacamole share the menu with inventive offerings such as the everything-but-the-kitchen-sink Brussels sprout nachos. The tropical and cosmopolitan twist adds an extra layer of flair to this dining destination.
For a memorable dinner in Old Town, secure a reservation at the James Beard-nominated Citizen Public House. Acknowledged as one of the top 10 restaurants in Scottsdale, this establishment offers upscale American cuisine within a relaxed, casual setting.
Golfing in Paradise
I would be remiss if I didn’t add golfing to this list of what to do when visiting Scottsdale in winter. With its numerous world-class golf courses, Scottsdale is a golfer’s paradise year-round. In winter, the weather is particularly inviting for a round of golf amidst stunning desert landscapes. Tee off at renowned courses like Troon North or TPC Scottsdale, where you can challenge your skills while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
One of the most popular times to visit is during the WM Pheonix Open (Waste Management Pheonix Open). Known as “The Greatest Show on Grass,” the tournament is held at TPC Scottsdale and is one of the best-attended golf tournaments in the world. Apparently, it’s a big party, with Post Malone to kick off the open in 2024, and is THE event to attend even if you aren’t much of a golfer. When I visited Scottsdale, almost every local I met asked if I had ever attended or had plans to attend the tournament. I have not attended, but maybe one day in the future.
Where to stay in Scottsdale
Of course, there are plenty of places to choose from when deciding on where to stay in Scottsdale. Below are two of my favorites, that are unique accommodations in Scottsdale.
Mountain Shadows Resort
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Scottsdale for the WM Phoenix Open or any other time, grab your bags and check in at the Mountain Shadows Resort. A stay here feels like you’ve escaped to the mountains without having to travel too far. Only a 10-minute drive to Old Town Scottsdale and a roughly 20-minute drive to the TPC Scottsdale course.
The sprawling 37,000 square feet of scenic property earns its name from the surrounding views of Camel Back Mountain and Mummy Mountain that anchor the resort at either end. Opening in 1959, the original hotel hot spot caught the attention of iconic Hollywood stars such as John Wayne and Elizabeth Taylor.
Throughout the property, guests can relish stunning vistas of Camelback Mountain or Mummy Mountain from nearly every vantage point. Whether lounging by the pool or dining at the on-site restaurant, Hearth 61, the hotel’s design seamlessly integrates upscale architecture with the surrounding desert landscape.
If you are into golf, the hotel boasts an 18-hole short course named “best par-3 course in America,” by Golf.com. The course was so beautiful, it actually made me want to pick a club and take a swing or two.
CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa
Immerse yourself in the serenity of the desert and embark on a rejuvenating wellness retreat at CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa. Nestled within over 20 acres of the Sonoran Desert, CIVANA provides an idyllic setting to reconnect and revitalize your senses through a personalized wellness experience.
If you are looking for a wellness getaway near Scottsdale, CIVANA is it! Boasting a world-class spa, wellness classes, healthy cuisine, and state-of-the-art studios, CIVANA delivers the epitome of a wellness getaway.
Every aspect has been carefully considered to create a welcoming environment for your wellness journey, from check-in to check-out. Offering spaces for mindful meditations, tranquil corners discouraging cell phone use, farm-to-table cuisine, and incorporation of Ayurvedic practices, CIVANA is devoted to safeguarding your inner peace.
Engage in one of the 70+ complimentary classes available at the resort, including options like aerial yoga, TRX, pilates, slow flow yoga on the lawn, and guided meditations with the soothing sounds of gongs and singing bowls. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll through the impeccably manicured desert gardens or explore the labyrinth for moments of tranquility.
Cap off your wellness experience with indulgence in the myriad spa services and treatments at CIVANA Spa. The spa features a hydrotherapy thermal circuit, a refreshing waterfall shower, and an exquisite sanitarium. The spa access is extended to all resort guests.
