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Discover the McDowell Sonoran Preserve

We’re always thrilled to spotlight attractions for our residents at Optima Kierland Apartments, including the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s picturesque landscape, this preserve stands as a testament to Scottsdale’s dedication to preserving the captivating beauty and wonder of the Sonoran Desert. This urban preserve offers a haven for flora, fauna, and eager adventurers alike.

The Preserve’s history began on January 1, 1994, when Scottsdale formally dedicated the initial area of the preserve, which then consisted of three parcels of land totaling approximately five square miles. Since then, this preserve has grown and flourished, now spanning 27,800 acres, and deeply intertwined with the passionate efforts of the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. This non-profit organization, in collaboration with the City of Scottsdale, has been a driving force in the completion and sustainability of the preserve. Their dedication ensures that this part of the Sonoran Desert remains untouched for future generations. The Conservancy also plays a vital role in managing the land and maintaining the extensive trail network.

Gateway Trailhead Building View
View of the Gateway Trailhead Building. Photo: Al_HikesAZ

Apart from its breathtaking vistas, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve boasts a range of facilities designed to enhance the visitor experience. Major trailheads include the Gateway Trailhead, Tom’s Thumb, and Brown’s Ranch. These provide free parking, access to a variety of trails, and restroom facilities. With an extensive network of non-motorized, multi-use trails, visitors can indulge in activities ranging from hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The paths cater to all skill levels – from gentle terrains to challenging ascents. 

 

Cactus Wren on a cactus.
Cactus Wren. Photo: Rick Cameron

The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy offers guided hikes, where knowledgeable guides share insights about the desert ecosystem, its history, and its inhabitants. But the preserve is more than just a recreational spot. Through the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, it offers a variety of educational programs designed to foster public awareness and appreciation of the desert ecosystem.

The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is more than a slice of “untainted desert;” it’s an experience. Its vastness captures the essence of the Sonoran Desert, providing those with a penchant for exploration an opportunity to connect with nature. With its diverse activities, rich history, and the backing of a dedicated conservancy, the preserve promises something for everyone. And for Optima Kierland Apartment residents, whether you’re an avid hiker, a curious student, or simply someone to find peace amidst nature’s splendor, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve awaits only five miles away.

Things to Do for Fun in Scottsdale

Scottsdale may be considered the best golf destination in the world, but its variety of tourist attractions suggests that it has much more to offer than simply golf. Scottsdale is Arizona’s crown gem due to its specialized museums, high-end restaurants, and family-friendly attractions.

Scottsdale, situated adjacent to Phoenix in the center of the southwestern United States, appeals to all types of explorers. Whether interested in history, automobiles, nature, animals, or good old-fashioned adventure, everyone can find something they like in this city.

If you are searching for iconic and unique activities in Scottsdale, you’ve come to the right place. The following are our recommendations for the greatest and most entertaining things to do in Scottsdale,  Arizona.

Explore Nature, Indoors

One of the best indoor nature tours in Scottsdale is the OdySea Aquarium. The largest aquarium in the Southwest takes you on a unique oceanic trip that is fascinating and instructive. The cutting-edge facility houses various creatures, including sharks, otters, sea lions, penguins, and sloths.

With unique experiences like SeaTREK underwater ocean walking, a large submerged escalator that descends into the deep sea, and the world’s only rotating aquarium exhibit, OdySea Voyager, OdySea Aquarium is one of your “must-see” activities in Scottsdale.

Take-In The Arts of Arizona and The Southwest

The desert settlement in eastern Maricopa County has been a powerhouse for the arts for a decade because of its close-knit artistic community. With its painter, potter, and printmaking collective, Cattle Track Arts Compound has long been a hub for creative souls. At the same time, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and Wonderspaces attract a younger clientele.

However, Scottsdale’s creative scene extends far beyond its outstanding public art program and historic Arts District. It extends to one of its finest hotels, the Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, which collaborated with Cattle Track on art direction and offers guest experiences such as artist meet-and-greets, tours, and seminars.

Get Outside!

Scottsdale is home to some of the best outdoor settings in the Valley of the Sun. One of the most popular activities in Scottsdale is riding in hot air balloons over the magnificent Sonoran Desert scenery. Also, consider reserving a horse ride from MacDonald’s Ranch if you want to experience desert vegetation and wildlife from a unique viewpoint.

Several desert paths meandering through the mountains with rocky terrain and numerous switchbacks provide the ideal atmosphere for mountain bikers in Scottsdale. Hiking is another wonderful option to take in all of the beauty the Southwest has to offer. Pinnacle Peak Park is a prominent local feature and popular hiking destination.

Hit the Trails

An ATV ride is one of the best ways to explore the Arizona backcountry, allowing you to access more distant areas of the desert than on foot. Jeep trips in the Sonoran Desert are also a ton of fun; whether you embark on a full-day tour or a short morning excursion, you follow scenic routes and ascend remote, mountainous slopes.

Catch a Homerun

Spring Training in Salt River Fields is a favorite destination for baseball fans. Plan ahead to watch a game while in town since tickets sell out rapidly. Salt River Fields is a Major League Baseball Park constructed near Scottsdale on Indian territory.

The Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies worked with the Native American community to construct a complex highlighting the region’s cultural richness. You can view the McDowell Mountains, Camelback Mountain, and Four Peaks with unsurpassed splendor from this location.

Enjoy a Day On The Links

If you are a golf enthusiast, you’ll be delighted with the variety of Scottsdale courses ideal for golfers of all skill levels and budgets. TPC Scottsdale and Troon North are regarded as some of the best courses in the country.

Troon North has two golf courses and was designed by Tom Weiskopf. Featuring undulating terrain, ravines, and beautiful views, these courses are a delight to play for golf enthusiasts. The Four Seasons Resort provides a complimentary shuttle service to Troon North; therefore, it is advisable to book a room there.

In addition, if you book a hotel at the resort, you’ll receive discounts on the golf course. Conversely, TPC Scottsdale is a golfer’s fantasy, where numerous professionals have competed. Like Troon North, it features two golf courses, The Champions and The Stadium.

Try Your Luck

Scottsdale has breathtaking scenery and spectacular sunsets, but did you know it is also one of the most progressive cities in terms of gambling? Scottsdale is a haven for those seeking to escape the crowds and has various gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and poker rooms with the state’s highest limits.

Utilize a portion of your winnings to experience the casinos’ inventive culinary selections and star-studded live performances. Whether you’re a beginner at blackjack or a seasoned master at poker, Casino Arizona is a great choice.

Find Luxury Apartment Living In The Middle Of Scottsdale Excitement

Optima Sonoran Village Selection is the perfect destination if you’re seeking an opulent apartment with easy access to Scottsdale’s trails, parks, and activities. We offer luxurious apartments of all sizes, with amenities such as heated swimming pools and a backyard, among other social amenities. Contact us for any inquiries on luxury apartments in Scottsdale.

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