Hike to a Sonoran Desert viewpoint at sunset with a certified local guide
2 hours
Up to 50 people
Guide, snacks, water
Hike in the Sonoran Desert with a certified guide and climb to a mountain viewpoint for wide views over Metro Phoenix and Scottsdale. This 2-hour guided hike covers 2–3 miles with about 700 feet of elevation gain.
Wear running or hiking shoes with good grip and tread, and bring hat and sunglasses. If possible, bring reusable water bottles; purified bottled water is available if needed.
Cancel up to 48 hours before the experience start date (local timezone) for a full refund. No refunds after that.
Plan for a 2–3 mile route with about 700 feet of elevation gain.
Wear running or hiking shoes with good grip and tread. Bring hiking shorts or pants, long-sleeved layers in cooler weather, plus a hat and sunglasses. If possible, bring full reusable water bottles.
Yes. Purified bottled water is available if you can’t bring your own reusable bottles.
Quartz Ridge Trailhead
Mad Desert Trekking guides consistently deliver exceptional hiking experiences across Phoenix's desert trails. The team stands out for their impressive depth of knowledge about local flora, fauna, geology, and history, transforming a simple hike into an educational adventure. Guides like Doug, Jay, Curtis, Henry, and Michael come prepared with all the essentials: water, snacks, backpacks, and walking sticks, so you can show up ready to explore without worrying about gear. What really sets this company apart is their attention to the complete experience. Guides pace hikes to match skill levels, making solo travelers and groups alike feel comfortable and safe. Many guides have backgrounds as EMTs or outdoor professionals, adding an extra layer of reassurance. The photography service is a thoughtful bonus that guests rave about, with guides capturing moments throughout the trek and sharing photos afterward. Sunset and sunrise hikes seem particularly popular, offering breathtaking views at Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, and other stunning desert locations. Everyone from first-time hikers to business groups leaves impressed.
Doug...best tour guide ever! He was patient, knowledgeable, friendly and attentive to our group needs. The desert trail hike was HOT but he made sure we had everything needed to keep ourselves as cool as possible including cold water and iced bandanas to wrap around our necks. We laughed, we learned, we experienced AZ. It was physical but definitely doable for most fitness levels. Highly recommend!!
Kristian Penn
May 19, 2026
Doug...best tour guide ever! He was patient, knowledgeable, friendly and attentive to our group needs. The desert trail hike was HOT but he made sure we had everything needed to keep ourselves as cool as possible including cold water and iced bandanas to wrap around our necks. We laughed, we learned, we experienced AZ. It was physical but definitely doable for most fitness levels. Highly recommend!!
Kristian Penn
May 19, 2026