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Brown's Ranch Trailhead: Gateway to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Explore Scottsdale's McDowell Sonoran Preserve from Brown's Ranch Trailhead: Hike, bike, and discover the desert's beauty and history.

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Brown's Ranch Trailhead, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, provides access to the northern part of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a vast and scenic desert habitat. With over 100 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian use, it's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The trailhead features amenities such as restrooms, water fountains, and interpretive exhibits detailing the area's history.

A brief summary to Brown’s Ranch Trailhead

  • 30301 N Alma School Pkwy, Scottsdale, Pinnacle Peak, Arizona, 85262, US
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Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and wear appropriate footwear, as the desert environment can be harsh.
  • Check the Preserve's website for updated gate hours, as they vary throughout the year.
  • Download a trail map or grab one at the trailhead to navigate the extensive trail system.
  • Be aware of desert wildlife, such as snakes and javelinas, and keep a safe distance.
  • Consider hiking during sunrise or sunset for cooler temperatures and scenic views.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Loop 101 in Scottsdale, take the Pima/Princess exit 36 and go north on Pima Road for 6.5 miles to Dynamite Road. Turn right onto Dynamite Road and continue for 2.7 miles to Alma School Parkway. Turn left onto Alma School Parkway and drive 1 mile to the trailhead. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't a direct public transportation route to Brown's Ranch Trailhead, you can take a bus to a nearby stop and then use a ride-sharing service to reach the trailhead. From the Scottsdale Transit Center, take the 68 bus to the Pima Rd and Dynamite Blvd stop. From there, a taxi or ride-share will cost approximately $15-25 for the 3 mile trip to the trailhead.

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Discover more about Brown’s Ranch Trailhead

Brown's Ranch Trailhead is a primary access point to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a protected desert landscape in Scottsdale. The preserve spans over 30,000 acres and offers more than 100 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The area has a rich history, serving as a working cattle ranch from the early 1900s until about 1970. The Brown family established a successful ranching operation in the dusty, rocky foothills. Today, visitors can still see remnants of the ranching era along the trails. The trailhead itself provides several amenities, including parking, restrooms, water fountains, and shaded ramadas. Interpretive signage offers insights into the area's natural and cultural history. The Jane Rau Interpretive Trail, an accessible 0.4-mile loop, features educational displays about the ranch's history, native peoples, and evolving technologies. Brown's Ranch Trailhead provides access to a variety of trails. These trails lead to destinations such as Granite Mountain, Cholla Mountain, Brown's Mountain, and Balanced Rock. The trails vary in length and difficulty, offering options for hikers, bikers, and equestrians of all skill levels.

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