Tom’s Thumb Hike: One of Scottsdale’s Most Stunning Trails
I honestly don’t know why the Tom’s Thumb Hike isn’t talked about more. It’s BEAUTIFUL, and has other worldly landscape. Not only do you have the cacti you’d expect when hiking in the desert, but you have views of surrounding mountain ranges as well as unique large boulders (think Joshua Tree), and some of the best wildflowers in the spring! Convinced yet?
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Where Is the Tom’s Thumb Hike?
Tom’s Thumb Hike is 45 minutes NORTH of Downtown Phoenix. It’s still wild to me how big the Phoenix Valley is. This hike is located in Scottsdale’s McDowell Mountains. Depending on where you live or where you are staying, I think it’s worth the drive. So many people stay central and hike Camelback or Piestewa Peak, which are great, but in terms of landscape (& busyness), Tom’s Thumb is WAY better.
Time of the Year to do This Hike
Tom’s Thumb is NOT a summer hike. The only way it could be is well before sunrise, but the trailhead isn’t open until sunrise. If you’re not from here, our summer heat KILLS. So many people need to be rescued each summer, and we are trying to limit that as it also puts the rescuers in danger and it uses unnecessary resources.
The best time to do the Tom’s Thumb hike is from November-May. I personally don’t hike if the temperature is going to be over 88. That might still be too hot for some of you, if you’re not used to it. Be smart!
Parking & Fees
There are NO FEES here, yay! There is a very large parking lot, so you shouldn’t have issues finding parking. For the horse peoples, they have a lo of your own here too. The most important thing to note is the HOURS. This trailhead is open sunrise to sunset. THIS WEBSITE lists hours based on month. Don’t risk being in that lot after sunset- Scottsdale park rangers are intense.
Tom’s Thumb Trail is severely overlooked- this trail is Stunning!
What To Bring to Tom’s Thumb
I have been trying to be minimal, but safe, with what I bring hiking. I don’t want to carry too much extra weight. I like to be fast, and feel light. Let me show you what I bring! I’ll also include my “hiking essentials” locker below!
My Outfit Above
Above, I’m wearing a visor- been in a mooooood for visors lately. I love that you can wear a high pony with it! I’m also loving the REI Sahara Sun Hoodie. It comes in many different colors and it’s less than $50- a steal. And you don’t have to wear sunscreen on your top half- love that haha. Shorts wise, I am loving Alphalete and Beyond Yoga. I’m really picky about my shorts- they need to fit my curvy girl body, they need to NOT ride up, have compression but not too much, and obviously be comfortable. I wore my updated Danner Boots on this hike- I’ve been wearing them for years and they are SO GRIPPY and never fail me.
If you’re bringing your adventure doggie, you NEED this Ruffwear Leash– this is the only one I use. I mainly extend the top to my waist so I can be hands-free. It is also bungee which gives your pup some slack.
Cute Summer Outfits for Women
I have been having so much fun wearing colorful outfits and contrasting with the environment. Check out my BLOG POST here!
Hiking Pack to Bring
In general, I have been loving the REI Flash Packs. So affordable, light, and colorful. When I hiked this, I wore my Osprey Running Vest. It’s super light and minimal. It has pockets for a snack, my key, my phone, and my camera (even a small tripod if I wanted to). I use this for hikes 4 miles and under.
I would suggest bringing at least 1 liter of water for this hike. Everyone is different, and the more you hike, the more you will learn what you need.
Tom’s Thumb Hike Stats
Tom’s Thumb Stats
As I mentioned, the parking lot is LARGE. They also have well-maintained bathrooms and trash. A lot of times, there will be a volunteer there that can talk to you about the hike if you’re new.
There are a decent amount of switchbacks in the beginning of this trail. They feel like a breeze to me compared to some of the other wild hikes I’ve been doing lately, but 1,000+ feet is a decent elevation gain! This is a very smooth and well- maintained trail which is nice.
Wildflowers
There are beautiful wildflowers in this area in the Spring. Wildflowers come at different times in Phoenix every year, but it typically happens March-mid April. This photo was taken on March 25, 2024. In 2023, wildflower were present from Early February to Late April (2023 Superbloom).
Want to Check Out a Few Other Hikes in Area?
This area is full of beautiful hikes.
How to Spend Your Spring Break in Arizona
More Hiking: Best Hikes in Phoenix
Tom’s Thumb- Destination
Tom’s Thumb is so pretty- isn’t it?? Did you know that you can actually rock climb it? I’d love to do it some day!! When you get to the destination, you’ll see a path leading up to the rock with a sign that you’ve made it. This is a busy trail, so it’s hard to get a photo and some peace and quiet. I went to the left on a large rock to sit and enjoy the views and take this fun photo.
Final Thoughts About Tom’s Thumb
Tom’s Thumb is a great hike. It’s awesome if you’re local or you’re visiting. Grab a friend and catch up while you climb up to this beauty. Give yourself 2-3 hours of your time and at least a liter of water and you’ll be good to go. Happy hiking and leave no trace!
