Tom's Thumb Trail

Tom's Thumb Trail is possibly one of the best hikes in Scottsdale, Arizona, and it's dog friendly! The smooth trail surface and great signage make it convenient, while still offering a great challenge and views that reward generously. The trail is named after a loved local rockclimber, Tom Kreuser. There are interesting rock formations and great climbing opportunities along the way, so be sure to bring your crag dog and some gear. 

At the trailhead, you can find plenty of parking, restrooms, shaded areas, and information kiosks. There is no water at the trailhead, so it's essential that you bring enough for you and your dog. The trail is quite challenging and has some steep climbs, but the views are breathtaking. 

Along your travels, you'll pass through a granite boulder field, and see a variety of unique desert flora and fauna, including lizards and cacti. Keep your curious canine on the trails so as to avoid a pricked nose or an encounter with a rattlesnake! After the boulder field, the trail's namesake and turn-around point, Tom's Thumb, juts out of the desert landscape. Made up of granite slabs that are 1.4 billion years old, it's truly a sight to behold. Here you and your pal can relax on a boulder with some snacks and water, while you enjoy the panoramic views of mountains and valleys below. The views from Tom's Thumb are to the east, overlooking a relatively untouched area of Phoenix. From this point, you and your doggo can retrace your steps back to your car at the trailhead. 

Your adventure dog is welcome to join you on this trail, as long as a couple ground rules are followed. Please keep your pooch leashed, on the trail and picked up after, so be sure to bring clean up bags. 

Tom's Thumb is an excellent challenge to enjoy with your four-legged friend.