Scottsdale, Arizona has over 300 days of sunlight during the year and offers top outdoor activities that are exciting, fresh and popular for the whole family. Who wants to go to the same amusement parks or look at the same beach again this summer? And who wants to sit at home in the snow, this winter? Not me, and not you, either!
10. The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy This conservancy is the largest urban preserve in the nation. It has 100 miles of trails for horseback riding, bicycling, and hiking. The preserve also has an area dedicated to wildlife and their natural habitat. This area is perfect for bird watching and scouting out other types of wildlife for view.
9. Windwalker Expeditions, Inc. This exclusive company offers tours with the guide of your choice. The experience can be custom tailored to your interest. There's a photography workshop given by a professional photographer. He or she will help you you get the lakes, mountains, plants and animals of the beautiful Sonoran Desert on film. There are also off- road and hiking tours .You will also be able to see the ancient Native American Indian ruins and learn about their culture. With a real prospector as your guide you can experience gold mining and even find your own treasure.
8. Biking Most companies in Scottsdale can take any level of rider. Tours can go from 2 hours to 6 hours and can include lots of interpretive detail, or none at all for those who just want to ride
7. Rock Climbing A fast growing sport such as rock climbing finds it's natural home in Scottsdale. Scottsdale's rock climbing routes can show you some awesome aerial views of the surrounding area. It's easy to find an experienced guide that has lead climbs on different continents. Whether a novice or experienced there is a climbing route for you.
6. Horseback Riding The beauty of Scottsdale can be fully experienced while going through the trails of the Verde River. There is no other way to get the full experience of being out west then being on horseback. Even if you don't ride there are trail rides and wagon rides for the youngest of explorers.
5. Four Wheeling You can go four wheeling anywhere. Only, four wheeling won't be as fun as it is in the Scottsdale desert. It's the most fun you will ever have in the dirt, period! There are sandy washes and creek beds and bumps and hills and drops, just incredible. The cars are automatic, easy to drive, and have seat belts and roll cages for safety. The adrenaline rush speaks for itself.
4. Target Shooting If you're a fan of clay target shooting then this is something that you have to experience while in Scottsdale. Most fields are lit for nighttime target shooting and are safe, friendly and fun.
3. Hot Air Ballooning Most of the companies do both individuals and groups, most also provide upscale food and tour daily. The rush of flying up high and looking down at the greenery, river, mountains, and desert will be something that you will never forget.
2. Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving This once in a lifetime experience is out of this world. If you like fast cars, then this will become an all time favorite memory. Bondurant's school offers many different customized packages that include hot laps and dinner, 2 hour or 1/2 day courses, and a 4 day Grand Prix Road Racing Course. Anyone who loves racing should check out this school of fast paced action and fun.
1. CrackerJax Family Fun & Sports Park This outdoor activity is number one for being able to incorporate all family members as well as stimulate all five senses. This Sports Park is on 28 acres and includes go harts batting cages, volleyball, an arcade, restaurants, clubhouse, and meeting rooms. The sports park can accommodate families, and corporate groups up to 1500+. So if your looking for the ultimate Scottsdale experience that is loads of fun and right for the whole family, CrackerJax can and will deliver.
These ten companies and activities are the best that Scottsdale has to offer. There are plenty of lodging accommodations and competitive airfares. So what are you waiting for? Grab your gear and give Scottsdale Arizona the best you've got.
This top-ten list of Scottsdale family fun was brought to you by Latoya Wills.