user
Trail Head Preserve - McDowell Mountains
Scottsdale, AZ 85255, United States
Appearance
Trail Head Preserve - McDowell Mountains

Comments
Al
Review №1

‘Twas a brisk summer morning, the sun just peaking over the prominent mountains to greet the day, an absolutely beautiful sunrise.And I was off, the park pleasantly busy, the atmosphere of a community, the feeling that even though you are on your own, you are never really alone, in the friendliest of ways. Dogs and their owners, avid runners, and everyone in between, everyone with a different motivation, all united in the same place.Then it hit me. My bowels lurched like never before, not yet to the summit, but not far enough to turn around. I wasn’t a quitter. I decided to stride onwards, thinking that the feeling would soon pass. I made it to the summit, however there was no time to stop. I started running. Making as much progress as possible, feeling the light wind on my skin and the warmth on my back. I was right for about 5 minutes, that the feeling would pass. After that 5 minutes it felt as if I were hit by a truck. I had to slow down. I slowed to a vigorous pace and continued onward. Knowing that there was only one option for me, and the other thoughts going through my head were dismissed, as I was focused on one thing, making it back to the trailhead where I could utilize the facilities. Every second felt like an hour. Every minute like an eternity. However I knew I was making great progress as I had just recently passed a sign pointing me to my destination, only a mile and a half to sweet relief. I journeyed on.15 minutes later, my objective in sight. The tightness and intensity increased with each step, as my body was ready to surrender, but my mind was not. A battle among myself that no one else can see. Coming down the mountain I was greeted by plenteous smiles and greetings. I smiled and nodded through the pain. To my gratitude, now only a handful of steps away. My thoughts now pertaining to holding on for the last remaining steps. I firmly grasped the door handle, pushed in with an unstoppable force. The formidable journey was completed. The feeling of relief fell over me, rushing to the far stall.I reached in to make sure there was proper tissue available, to my horror, it was empty. But I hadn’t given up, there was one more stall and there had to be something there.But there wasn’t, it was bone dry. I started to tear up. What was I going to do?

Mo
Review №2

Scenery is beautiful plenty of space for large and small vehicle parking restrooms are clean overall pleasant experience.

Co
Review №3

Great place for a family walk! Lots of Beautiful Deseret Cactus and Shrubs to See and Enjoy.Bring your camera, because its some of the best Desert Scenery in the Scottsdale area.There are several short trails to choose from (for a mile to three walk) if you have little children, or you can go for a more adventurous 8 mile hike around the park.Go to the trail head Pavillion for directions, or a FREE Trail Map. For your convenience - they have clean restrooms and drinking fountains where you can fill up your water bottles and apply your sunscreen.

Ev
Review №4

Beautiful area! Great trails, excellent signage

St
Review №5

Beautiful trails located right in Scottsdale. Perfect way to spend the afternoon.

Information
90 Photos
5 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:Scottsdale, AZ 85255, United States
Categories
  • State park
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
Similar organizations