Brown’s Ranch

A Launching Pad for Hikers and Nature Lovers

Serving as the gateway to the northern region of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and a principal access point to the network of trails in the area, Brown’s Ranch Trailhead was designed to preserve the historical, archeological, and natural legacy of the area. The design develops a modern interpretation of the utilitarian structures that once existed on the historic ranch site while preserving meaningful open space where hikers, bikers, and equestrians can enjoy the splendor of the Upper Sonoran Desert. The project includes a trailhead, an interpretive center, a shaded amphitheater, an equestrian staging area, an interpretive trail, parking, restrooms, and a water trough. Browns Ranch Trailhead seeks to find a balance within its environmental context through the use of appropriate materials, water conservation, and renewable energy. The Trailhead is a Net Zero Energy (NZE) project and served a pilot project for the City of Scottsdale’s adoption of the International Green Construction Code.