by Stacey Mckenna

Created on: May 24, 2008   Last Updated: June 02, 2008

Scottsdale, AZ is that unique sort of destination that people go to on vacation, then move to, and still feel like they are on vacation. The assortment of outdoor activities is wide, and depending on how lizard-like your thermo-regulation system, many activities can be engaged in year-round or at least near to. There are plenty of guides out there that talk about the great golf, or the fun of spending an October day sunbathing and swimming, so I'm going to focus on some of my favorite things to do outdoors in Scottsdale.

1 - Horseback Riding - I have been riding horses for over 25 years in all kinds of environments. Still, there is nothing quite like a Sonoran Desert trail ride, regardless of your skill level. Scottsdale and the surrounding areas have a plethora of options for great trail riding opportunities that can suit a variety of riding desires and skills. Windwalker Expeditions offers an excellent riding experience tailored to you. But there is no shortage of stables to choose from, so take your time to look online and call around to find what suits your needs. Always remember to ask if they provide water and snacks - if they don't bring your own! I cannot emphasize this enough.

2 - Hiking - The Scottsdale area has an array of hiking options, again, suitable for all different levels. Camelback Mountain is right at the center of town so offers a great view! Pinnacle Peak, in North Scottsdale, offers a fun moderate hike at slightly higher elevation, so it's a little cooler. And McDowell Mountain Park has a huge variety of trails. Check out http://www.arizonahikingtrails.com/ or http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/trails.asp for more information on trails and safety when hiking in the desert. Again, remember water water water and snacks! That desert heat takes it out of you quick.

3 - Greasewood Flat - This rugged bar/restaurant is an original stagecoach stop and a hearkening back to the Old West! Most of the space for eating and drinking is outside at picnic tables that are spaced around a concrete dance floor and firepits. During the day, it's a very family friendly spot to enjoy a burger in the desert after a hike up Pinnacle Peak. In the evenings, it's definitely more of a bar, but the folks tend to be nice, the dancing is fun, and you just can't beat the roaring fires! Plus there's live music 4 days a week. Call at (480) 585-9430 for more information and hours.

There are loads more things to do outdoors in Scottsdale, including biking, jeep tours, outdoor art festivals and farmers markets, but these are three that folks do on vacation, and as residents who find their home makes them always feel that they are on vacation. Finding outdoor fun in Scottsdale and the surrounding desert won't be difficult. Just remember to check the temperatures, which are mildest between October and March or April, start out early in the morning in late spring, summer or early fall, and no matter what you're doing, drink plenty of water!

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