Scottsdale summers are known for sunshine and triple-digit temperatures, but that doesn’t mean your vacation has to stay poolside the entire time. Beyond the city, Arizona is filled with refreshing lakes, rivers, mountain towns, and scenic escapes that make it easy to break from the heat for the day.
Whether you’re looking to float down the river, spend the day on the lake, hike through cooler elevations, or take in some of Arizona’s most iconic views, these easy day trips from Scottsdale are well worth the drive. Head out in the morning, enjoy a full day of adventure, and return to your GoodNight Stay by evening.
Here are five of the best summer day trips from Scottsdale!
Salt River Day Trip | Under 1 Hour
For one of the easiest and most popular summer escapes from Scottsdale, head to the Salt River. Just outside the city, this Arizona favorite is known for scenic desert views, refreshing water, and laid-back tubing adventures that have become a summer tradition for locals and visitors alike.
Tubing season typically runs from late spring through early fall, and 2026 bookings are now open. Reserving online ahead of time is a smart move, especially on busy weekends. Bring sunscreen, water, snacks, water shoes, and a waterproof bag so you’re ready for a full day on the river. Families visiting with children should note that life jackets are required for ages 12 and under.
Lake Pleasant Day Trip | 1 Hour
If your ideal summer day includes open water, sunshine, and plenty of activities, Lake Pleasant is a top pick. Located about an hour from Scottsdale, this expansive lake offers a fun mix of adventure and relaxation surrounded by Sonoran Desert scenery.
Visitors can elevate the experience with our partners at Pleasant Water Sports, offering jet skis, stand-up paddleboards, and the always popular Yachtuzzi boats, floating hot tubs complete with Bluetooth speakers and sweeping lake views. For families and groups, Paqua Park at Scorpion Bay Marina brings even more energy with a giant inflatable obstacle course featuring slides, climbing walls, and splash zones.
From cruising across the water to spending time at the floating obstacle park, Lake Pleasant is one of the easiest ways to turn a hot Scottsdale afternoon into a memorable summer outing.
Alternate Lake Trips: Saguaro Lake and Canyon Lake
If you’re looking to have more exciting lake days near Scottsdale, some additional options to consider are Saguaro Lake and Canyon Lake. Both are about the same drive time out of Scottsdale as Lake Pleasant, and both offer similar water activity opportunities.
The Granite Dells Day Trip | 2 Hours
For a cooler mountain-town change of pace, head north to Prescott and explore the Granite Dells. Known for its massive boulder formations, scenic lakes, and fresh air, this area offers one of Arizona’s most unique landscapes and a welcome break from desert heat.
Watson Lake and Willow Lake are the most popular stops, both ideal for kayaking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the views. If you’d rather stay on land, there are several great trails nearby. Watson Lake Loop offers sweeping water views, Peavine Trail is a family-friendly path along a historic railroad route, and Granite Gardens Loop is a shorter option with fun rock scrambling.
Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, as blue herons, bald eagles, and other birds are often spotted around the lakes.
Sedona Day Trip | 2 Hours
Sedona is one of Arizona’s most iconic destinations, known for red rock views, scenic hikes, art galleries, and a relaxing wellness vibe. Thanks to its higher elevation, it’s also a great summer escape when you’re ready for cooler temperatures and a change of scenery.
For a refreshing stop, head to Slide Rock State Park, home to a natural water slide, swimming areas, and one of the most famous swimming holes in the state. If you prefer something quieter, nearby creek access points like Bootlegger offer a more low-key option.
Sedona is especially popular in summer, so arriving early is recommended for trailheads and parks. Many hiking areas require a Red Rock Pass for parking, and the dry high-desert climate means bringing extra water is always a good idea.
Grand Canyon Day Trip | 4 Hours
A Grand Canyon day trip is more about unforgettable views than beating the heat, but thanks to its higher elevation, it can still feel noticeably cooler than Scottsdale in summer. If you’re looking to add a bucket-list experience to your trip, this is one worth considering.
The South Rim is open year-round and offers scenic overlooks, shuttle access, and some of the park’s most famous hiking routes. The South Kaibab Trail is known for panoramic ridge-line views, while the Bright Angel Trail is a classic option with rest stops and water stations along the way. For sunset, Hopi Point is one of the best places in the park.
If you’d rather skip the long drive, aerial tours by plane or helicopter offer a faster and unforgettable way to experience the canyon from above. Westwind Air Service offers a variety of tour options, from shorter scenic flights to full-day excursions that make this iconic destination even more memorable.
These are just a few of the best summer day trips from Scottsdale when you’re ready to venture beyond the city. After a day on the water, in the mountains, or exploring Arizona’s most iconic sights, coming home to your vacation rental is the perfect way to unwind.
When it’s time to plan your Scottsdale escape, book with GoodNight Stay and enjoy private pools, spacious homes, and the ideal home base for every Arizona adventure.
