Hike Thompson Peak: Scottsdale’s Iconic Summit
The McDowell Mountains rise above Scottsdale in the northeast corner of the Phoenix Valley and are easy to spot from almost anywhere in town. One peak in particular stands out with its communication towers on top, and that is Thompson Peak.
Although it is not the highest in the range, Thompson Peak is the tallest summit with a trail to the top, reaching 3,984 feet above sea level. This challenging climb rewards hikers with sweeping views of Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, and the entire Phoenix metro area.
The mountain range was named after General Irvin McDowell, a former U.S. Army general and Commander of the Pacific. Interestingly, he never stepped foot in Arizona but still has a major road, mountain range, and even a fort that is now a reservation named after him.
Most of the McDowell Mountains are protected as part of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve with the eastern slopes in McDowell Mountain Regional Park. The preserve features an extensive network of trails open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. It is one of the best places to explore Scottsdale’s desert scenery.
Why This Hike is Worth It
Thompson Peak is both a challenge and a treat for hikers. It is one of the few peaks in the McDowells where you can reach the summit. The trail is steep with significant elevation gain, but the reward is sweeping views of the desert, the Four Peaks Wilderness, and even the Superstition Mountains on a clear day.
Need to Know Before Hiking Thompson Peak
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is part of the Sonoran Desert, which means you’re sharing the trail with wildlife like coyotes, bobcats, javelina, and occasionally mountain lions. Be alert and give animals plenty of space. This area is also home to rattlesnakes, so watch where you step, especially during warmer months when snakes are more active.
Temperatures in the summer can become dangerously hot, even early in the morning. We do not recommend hiking Thompson Peak in the summer months. Instead, plan your hike for fall, winter, or spring, and start early in the morning to avoid the heat.
As always, practice the Leave No Trace principles while exploring. Stay on the designated trail, pack out all trash (yes, even food scraps like orange peels), and clean up after your pets. This helps protect the fragile desert ecosystem and keeps the preserve beautiful for future visitors.
Quick Stats: Thompson Peak via Dixie Mind
Length:
9.7 miles recorded
Route Type:
Out and back
Elevation Gain:
2,388 ft recorded
Toilets:
Yes
Dog Friendly:
Not recommended, but allowed
Fee:
No
Difficulty:
Hard
Water:
No water at trailhead
Thompson Peak Trailhead
There are several trails that connect to the service road leading to the summit of Thompson Peak, so you have options when planning your hike. The route we took is the shortest and most direct way to the top.
We started at the Golden Eagle Trailhead in Fountain Hills. Parking here is free, but the lot is small with space for about 20 vehicles. Arrive early to secure a spot because parking along the street is not allowed. There is a restroom at the trailhead, but no drinking water available, so make sure to bring enough for the entire hike.
Hike to Thompson Peak via Dixie Mine Trail
This route begins by passing through a gated community. On the north side of the guard station there is a dedicated path for hikers to walk through. No permit or interaction with security is required. The first portion of the hike follows a neighborhood sidewalk and is easy to navigate. Look for trail signs that will lead you directly to the Dixie Mine Trailhead.
Once you reach the dirt trail, follow Dixie Mine Trail through McDowell Mountain Regional Park for just under two miles. The trail is mostly smooth with gentle inclines and declines, which makes it a nice warm up before the climb. Eventually Dixie Mine Trail intersects with Thompson Peak Service Road. Turn left here and begin heading southwest. This is where the climb starts to get serious. The service road is unpaved and steep in sections since it is used by utility vehicles to access the communication towers at the summit.
The Final Climb and Summit
Thompson Peak Service Road quickly becomes challenging as it begins a steady climb with a few brief dips. The higher you go, the steeper it feels. Eventually you will reach sections where the dirt road transitions into poured concrete. Some of these areas are cracked or worn, so watch your footing. This portion of the hike is very steep, and good hiking shoes with solid traction are highly recommended.
As you near the summit, the road begins to switchback, giving you glimpses of the views that await at the top. The final stretch wraps around to the southern face of the peak and ends at the base of the communication towers. The reward for your effort is a sweeping view of the Verde River Valley to the east, the Superstition Mountains to the southeast, and the entire Phoenix metro area with Scottsdale right below your feet.
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