Members Hike to McDowell Sonoran Preserve  

A Cultural Resources Program: Brown’s Ranch Interpretative Trail Hike  at Brown’s Ranch Trailhead 

Followed by lunch at Dynamite Grille at Troon North Golf Club

Join VVAC for an extensive hike and a fun day of learning at The McDowell Sonoran Preserve located in Scottsdale. The Preserve is a large, permanently protected, sustainable desert habitat that includes an interconnected network of non-motorized, multi-use trails (hike/bike/horse) accessed from multiple trailhead locations.

Before the Preserve was a reality, part of this land was a ranch, the historic Brown’s Ranch. We will explore this historical place, full of memories of a different way of life and hear the stories of the people who lived here not long ago. 

The hike is approximately a 3.0-mile round trip journey on a comfortable trail with moderate elevations that will take us over about 2.5 hours to complete. 

This hike is made possible by the generosity of The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, the official partner to The McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The Conservancy leads with conservation and enhances community well-being through stewardship, science, and education. 

Itinerary

We will meet at the Brown's Ranch Trailhead at 9:15am. Our hike and tour starts promptly at 9:30am. Please allocate enough time for your drive to Scottsdale since transportation is not provided. Please note, restroom facilities are located at the trailhead. 

Please wear closed toed shoes and bring a walking stick if you require one. Also, bring a hat, sunglasses, and wear layers. As well as bring your own water and snacks. Please do not bring dogs to the preserve.   

After our hike and tour, we will take a short 10-minute drive to have a group lunch at Dynamite Grille at Troon North Golf Club located in Scottsdale. Lunch is a separate fee.

Advance registration is required, please click here to register. Due to demand this hike is only available to VVAC members.

Limit of 12 participants 

$40 Per Person: Includes admission and tour fee

Trip Leaders: Master Conservancy Steward, Franco Farina; VVAC Docent, Richard McGaugh; and Executive Director, Monica Buckle