Background

Discover the Natural Splendor of McDowell Mountain Regional Park

4.8 (1162)

Experience the rugged beauty of McDowell Mountain Regional Park, a desert paradise for hiking, biking, and nature exploration in Arizona.

McDowell Mountain Regional Park in Arizona offers stunning desert landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

A brief summary to McDowell Mountain Regional Park

  • Monday 6 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-8 pm
  • Friday 6 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months, from October to April, for the best hiking weather.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities in the park.
  • Consider starting your hike early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and stunning sunrise views.
  • Check the park's website for any trail closures or special events before your visit.
  • Wildlife is more active during early mornings and late afternoons; plan your visit accordingly for the best sightings.
widget icon

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Attraction

River of Time Museum & Exploration Center

Discover the Wonders of the River of Time Museum & Exploration Center
Attraction

Marcus Landslide Trail

Explore the Breathtaking Marcus Landslide Trail
Attraction

Lost Dog Wash Trailhead

Explore the Scenic Lost Dog Wash Trailhead in Scottsdale

Unlock the Best of McDowell Mountain Regional Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Bus

    From downtown Tempe, walk to the nearest Valley Metro bus stop. Take the Route 66 bus towards the Scottsdale Waterfront. Transfer at the Scottsdale Road & McDowell Road stop to Route 180, which will take you towards Fort McDowell. Stay on the bus until you reach the McDowell Mountain Park stop. From there, it's a short walk to the park entrance.

  • Bicycle

    If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bicycle from a local bike shop in Tempe. Head north on Rural Road towards the Salt River, then connect to the Arizona Canal Path. Follow the path east until you reach the intersection with McDowell Mountain Park Drive. Continue north on McDowell Mountain Park Drive until you arrive at the park entrance.

  • Rideshare Service

    Open your rideshare app (like Uber or Lyft) and set your destination to 'McDowell Mountain Regional Park, 16300 McDowell Mountain Park Dr, Fort McDowell, AZ 85264'. The driver will take you directly to the park entrance. Make sure to confirm your pickup location in Tempe, which could be a hotel or popular area downtown.

  • Walking

    If you're staying near the Arizona State University campus, start at the ASU Memorial Union. Walk east towards Mill Avenue and continue until you reach the bus stop at Mill & 5th. From there, take the Route 66 bus towards Scottsdale and transfer to Route 180 at Scottsdale Road & McDowell Road to reach McDowell Mountain Park.

Discover more about McDowell Mountain Regional Park

Nestled in the heart of Arizona, McDowell Mountain Regional Park is a breathtaking expanse of desert beauty that beckons outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Spanning over 21,000 acres, this stunning park features rugged mountain vistas, rolling hills, and a vibrant array of flora and fauna. Whether you're an avid hiker, mountain biker, or simply looking to enjoy a serene day surrounded by nature, McDowell Mountain offers a wealth of opportunities to explore and appreciate the great outdoors. The park boasts over 60 miles of trails that cater to all skill levels, allowing visitors to traverse scenic routes that highlight the area's unique geological features and stunning desert landscapes. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the chance to spot various species, including desert tortoises, bobcats, and a variety of birds, making it a perfect spot for photography and wildlife observation. Additionally, the park provides amenities such as picnic areas and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit. With its stunning views and diverse recreational options, McDowell Mountain Regional Park is an ideal destination for tourists seeking to experience the natural beauty of Arizona. Plan your visit during the cooler months for the most enjoyable experience, and make sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Explore the best of what McDowell Mountain Regional Park has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Tempe

File:Tempe Town Lake - No Water 01 - 2010-08-06.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Experience the vibrant energy of Tempe, Arizona—a city that blends youthful spirit, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

Tell me more about Tempe
Attraction

Discover the essence of Arizona's wine culture at Su Vino Winery, where every sip tells a story of craftsmanship and passion.

Su Vino Winery
Attraction

Explore the River of Time Museum & Exploration Center in Fountain Hills, Arizona, where history and nature come alive through engaging exhibits and educational programs.

River of Time Museum & Exploration Center

Select Currency