With our self-imposed quarantine well underway and months of social distancing still looming ahead, my husband and I decided to visit my in-laws for a week. The secluded desert mountains in Arizona proved to be a treat. And while the majority of the time was spent at home playing games, and lounging in the pool, we were able to go out one day and enjoy Scottsdale à la social distancing. For your reading pleasure, here’s a guide for 1 day in Scottsdale.
Hiking
Our first activity on the itinerary took us to Granite Mountain. Since the weather in Scottsdale can reach blistering temperatures in May, we literally had to get up at the crack of dawn to hike before the sun was out. As per its name, the park features a giant mountain of rocks surrounded by cliffs and boulders. It’s a popular site for horseback riding, and rock climbing as well. Granite Mountain is part of the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve, so be sure to check out their website for more information on trail openings.
If you’re in town for more than a day and want to hike some more, try visiting one of these:
- McDowell Sonoran Preserve – this is a popular hiking location and great for rock climbing too!
- Pinnacle Peak Park – this park spans 150 acres with beautiful sights and trails of varying lengths and difficulties.
Scenic Drive
After hiking, we went home to wash off Arizona’s fabled red dirt and to have some brunch. Although the state’s stay at home order was recently lifted, we found that business near my folks’ house were still doing take out only. If you’re looking for a lunch spot, then try one of Daily Dose‘s locations. Next on the docket was a scenic drive through the desert. We drove through the Tonto National Forest. Although it’s well-known to be a spot for dirt bikes and other OHVs, our Jeep and other cars like it had no problem navigating the dusty way.
For more scenic drives, or day trips, go here:
- Carefree – an easy and beautiful dessert drive to a cute little town with lots of shopping.
- Crown King – the drive to this town is longer and more desolate, but rewards you with a change of scenery!
Golfing
Our day culminated with a sunset golf session at the Rancho Mañana Golf Club. The club is located in northern Scottsdale and offers stunning views of the dessert. While we were there, the cacti were in full bloom and the desert wildlife was a great backdrop while golfing. Nearby, there are several establishments that offered partial in-room dining and socially distant seating. My favorite? El Encanto for their old world aesthetic and margaritas, and Buffalo Chip Saloon for their vibrant ambiance and live music.
Not into golfing? Not a problem, there’s plenty more to do in Scottsdale:
- Cave Creek Horseback Riding – these scenic guided tours offer trails for beginner riders to expert equestrians.
- Dessert dune buggy rides – this a great way to explore the Sonoran dessert on two or four-seat Can-Am UTVs
Liked our 1 day in Scottsdale guide? Check out our tips for these Northern California locations.
