5.4 Miles
435 feet
Easy
A+ Views
Taliesin Overlook Hike Overview
The Taliesin Overlook hike is a great easy option to get your outdoor fix. You’ll enjoy great views and beautiful desert scenery. Get out there and escape the confines of the indoors for a little bit. You’ll feel good about yourself if you do!
Map & Elevation Profile
Max elevation: 2135 ft
Min elevation: 1703 ft
Total time: 01:58:54
Map for the Taliesin Overlook Hike
Get this map! It’s a good idea to have this guy with you in case you want to go further, explore a new trail or get turned around!
McDowell Mountains Greentrails map
You definitely won’t regret having this map for your McDowell Sonoran Preserve hikes (affiliate link)!
Parking
For this hike, you will want to park at the Lost Dog Wash Trailhead. Just like all most of the trailheads in the McDowells, there is a great big parking lot and a nice bathroom. Thank you City of Scottsdale 😄!
Taliesin Overlook Hike Trail Notes
The south side of the McDowells is peaceful and beautiful. I don’t think there is a section in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve that isn’t great. The views, the saguaros, the teddy bear cholla, and the trail will have you feeling more clear-headed in no time!
The hike from the trailhead to the Taliesin Overlook is 2.2 miles and only ~300 feet elevation. So if you are short on time, it’s hot or don’t want to do anything too tough, this option is excellent!
One bonus of this region of the McDowell’s is that you get glimpses of the Superstitions and the San Tan Mountains. The face of the Supes is soooo beautiful!
Bring a map so you can make this hike as short or as long as you would like. Hiking around this area is worth it. You won’t regret it and will likely feel great afterward!
For a more detailed trail description, go here.
So, should you do this hike?
Yes, you should hike to the Taliesin Overlook. Make this hike as easy or as hard as you’d like. It will make you feel spectacular!
Other hikes close by
The Gateway Trailhead isn’t too far away. Check out the Bell Pass hike for something hard, the Gateway Loop hike for something medium, and the Levee Trail hike or the Horseshoe Trail Hike for something easy. So many great options!
Photo Gallery that Will Make You Want To Go There
