Hike #37: Mule Deer/Coyote Trails, McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Length: 2 miles

Since there's been an inexcusably long lapse since my last hike, I decided it was about time to return to the trails. While researching new trails, I came across the website for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale. After reading the trail descriptions on the Preserve's website, I decided that the Quartz Trail would be the best offering for a return to the trails.

Unfortunately, after following the directions given on the website, I found myself in a large parking-lot in the heart of Scottsdale suburbia; however, since there was a large map of the Preserve and a trailhead, I decided to continue along.

Starting at the trailhead, I found myself following a wide sidewalk as wove its way behind various shops. Surprisingly, due to the lower elevation of the path and the surrounding vegetation, the trail was extremely quiet and actually felt somewhat remote. In fact, I found the under-street tunnels rather attractive (at least from the outside!)

As the sidewalk path continued, I was never able to come across the "Quartz Trail"; instead, I found myself along the Coyote Trail as it passed between backyards! Although it wasn't the ideal scenery, I was surprised at the abundance of wildlife; I saw more rabbits and quail on this path than any other trail.

To view more photos of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, click here.