Lost Dog Wash Trail

Managing agency

City of Scottsdale

Lost Dog Wash Trail is a 5.7-mile out-and-back hiking route located in Arizona near Scottsdale. Managed by the City of Scottsdale, this trail features 458 feet of elevation gain, making it a moderate hike suitable for hikers of varying experience levels. The out-and-back format allows hikers to turn around at any point, offering flexibility in trip distance and duration. With roughly 2.85 miles to the turnaround point, the trail provides options for both shorter walks and full-distance hikes. The elevation gain is distributed throughout the route, creating a steady climb rather than steep pitches. This makes Lost Dog Wash Trail accessible for those looking to build endurance without extreme technical difficulty. As a City of Scottsdale managed trail, it receives regular maintenance and is part of the region's established hiking infrastructure. The trail's name references the local landscape characteristic of Arizona's Sonoran Desert terrain. Lost Dog Wash Trail offers a straightforward desert hiking experience with manageable distance and elevation metrics for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the greater Scottsdale area.