I know, I know. it’s a corny title, but I couldn't help myself. For locals and tourists alike, Tom’s Thumb trail is not to be missed. Managed and impeccably maintained by Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, the area offers trails for all levels of experience, including rock-climbing. The Visitor’s Center is a work of art in itself.
Trailhead Visitor’s Center
A beautiful hike, from beginning to end.
Dave and I hiked to Tom’s Thumb the Sunday before New Years. Bright, sunny skies and pristine air. The trail was full of tourists in for the Fiesta Bowl. Being the loyal LSU fans that we are (another time, another place), we scanned the masses, looking for purple and gold. No such luck—mostly UCF colors. Not a problem, merely an observation.
The sun was just starting to break the ridge.
BTW, Tom’s Thumb trail is quite steep (1,200+ft in elevation), but relatively short (4 miles roundtrip). Although it’s rated as difficult, we’ve seen all hikers of all ages make the trek. Dave and I took our time—stopping along switchbacks to admire the view and catch our breath. When we reached the ridge just before the thumb, we were greeted by trail volunteers who were answering questions and congratulating hikers on their way up. A nice touch.
Rocky. Gorgeous. Desert. Views.
The trail to the east takes you to a view of Fountain Hills.
North Scottsdale is behind me.
Spectacular panoramas at every turn. Tonto National Forest, Bartlett Reservoir, Four Peaks, Fountain Hills, and Scottsdale Airpark were all visible from the top. In addition to being an awesome photo-op, Tom’s Thumb is also a well-known nesting area for Peregrine Falcons.
Tom’s Thumb
Our descent was a slip-sliding extravaganza, full of people-dodging and skiing down loose rock. Fortunately for us, all good things came to an end. It wasn't too long before the Visitor’s Center and our Jeep came back into view.
Homeward bound.
Quick question: Why is it that hiking down can be so much more difficult that hiking up? For me, I think it it must be that I’m kind of tired and not as focused. Hmm, maybe I’m looking forward to happy hour rather than the task at hand. A reward for effort? Why not? Not long ago, I heard two hikers asking each other, “Do you eat to hike or hike to eat?” They eventually decided that they hike to eat. I’ve come to realize that Dave and I are quite fond of doing both.