Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Nature preserve · Scottsdale ·

Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Nature preserve · Scottsdale ·

Hike, bike, and explore 30,000 acres of desert preserve

Information

18333 N Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Get directions

@travelleisure

28,641 Postcards · 5,542 Cities

Hiking in Scottsdale: 9 Best Trails

"The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is home to more than 200 miles of trails, but one of the most prominent (and popular) is the Gateway Loop. You'll find plenty of spring wildflowers on this moderately difficult 4.4-mile hike. If you want to avoid the crowds (and the heat), plan on an early-morning or evening excursion." - Travel + Leisure Editors

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/best-hiking-scottsdale

Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

@matadornetwork

1,344 Postcards · 344 Cities

Nature and Parks in Phoenix

"If you’re staying in Scottsdale, you’re close to one of the most expansive desert spaces in the greater Phoenix area. There’s more than 30,000 acres of protected land in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, and the Gateway Trail is about a 20-minute drive from downtown Scottsdale. This area of the park is well-suited to all abilities; a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk winds through an impressive garden, low-impact trails allow hikers up-close views of giant saguaro cacti, and longer trails can take serious backpackers through the McDowell Mountain range. Arrive at sunrise for a mesmerizing view you won’t forget easily." - MATADOR_NETWORK

https://matadornetwork.com/destinations/north-america/united-states/phoenix-united-states/nature-parks/

MATADOR_NETWORK

Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

"McDowell Sonoran Preserve In 1995, Scottsdale residents voted to set aside a large parcelof undeveloped city land asprotectedopen space. Today, the roughly 30,000-acre McDowell Sonoran Preserve provides an opportunity for adventure. Hike, bike, and rock climb, or take to the trails with local guides from Arizona Outback Adventures and learn all about the desert along the way. Because most of the creatures that live in this desert habitat are more active at night, the best time to view animals is on early morning orevening hikes."

The Best of Winter in Scottsdale

Photo by Dennis Eckel, McDowell Sonoran Conservancy steward

Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

The Perfect Weekend in Scottsdale

Photo by Dennis Eckel, McDowell Sonoran Conservancy steward

Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Randy M.

Google

We spent a couple hours hiking the various trails here. Very beautiful scenery all around! Clean and spacious restrooms and nice and easy/medium hiking trails. Plenty of parking when we were there. If you are in the Phoenix area and looking for something to do and want to see some awesome Saguaro Cacti, this is the place to go! easy to get to and great for kids to tag along and enjoy. We would come back here again. Nice job by all who have helped make this possible for us to all visit and enjoy!

Rajesh B.

Google

Several well maintained trails, allowing loops or in and out hikes of about 4 miles Loop (Saddle trail), about 5.5 miles Round Trip (inspiration point), 7 miles round trip (Bell Pass), a 9.5 mile loop, 11 miles round trip (Tom Thumb) or 14 miles round trip (Thompson Peak). All hikes have good elevation gains ranging from a few hundred feet to a couple of thousand feet (Thompson Peak bit more). Very clean restrooms and water at trailhead. Volunteers often available during morning hours to help plan hikes. Probably one of the best if not absolutely the best spot to launch hikes in Scottsdale!

Tim T.

Google

A very nice hike on the gateway trail. We did the loop and it took about 2 hours. You get some elevation gain but not much and it's a bit Rocky so we're good strong shoes. There's almost no shade so bring water and a hat. Plenty of parking and bathrooms.

Anja L.

Google

The rating Dependance on what you are looking for on your hike. On a Sunday night this place was buzzing. It is well maintained, offers activities (like today's owl demonstration) and has a educational path that has a lot of surprizing fact to offer. For golden hour there were plenty of photo shoots going on. If you are looking for a relaxed hike in solitude, you will have to get past the crowded first to find the further out trails with great view. The Park has a good map about the different levels of the many trails. For a quick evening hike with my dog, I prefer less frequented and organized trails. But that is only my taste... 😉

Karma Calti D.

Google

This is a well maintained trail! When we went, there was a lot of people there, granted Thanksgiving is just a couple of days down this week. Good to see people enjoying the outdoors and maybe learning along the way! We went on the loop and enjoyed the informational panels throughout the trail! At the end, we were blessed with a close encounter with a roadrunner! (Video in this post) Remember to stay hydrated!

Jo Y.

Google

Excellent! Have hiked numerous trails here over the years. Pictured are Ringtail Trail photos taken 12/26/25 on the east side of the Preserve. This trail has some rolling, slightly uneven, terrain and rocky surfaces. Some elevation gain and loss. Beautiful natural vistas. Greater birding area. Dog owners were respectful — use of leashes and keeping pups under control, stepping to the side of the trail when passing others, and mostly picking up poop— of non-dog walkers overall. Took advantage of the cooler temps and overcast skies in the early AM each time this week. So grateful for access to this place. A community gem.

Morgan Y

Google

Great trail walk!!! We couldn’t finish the loop in 2 hours since the ground was very rocky/unstable that made us a lot slower when walking. Overall was enjoyable and not too hard! Very dog friendly!

Karen G.

Google

This was a beautiful trail. Trails are wide and safe for walking and biking. And you certainly can't beat the views. Trails are marked well and volunteers at trailhead are very helpful and provide maps and tips!

Haneen O.

Yelp

It's been 5 years, so I'm updating my review! I am a regular at this trailhead and it is my favorite one in the valley and happens to be the closest one to me. I enjoy hiking early in the summer because of cooler temps but also less people! Always a perk as someone who enjoys the solitude of the mountains. I've done the Gateway Loop plenty of times but the last few years, I've incorporated additional trails into my routine. My personal favorite is the Bell Pass Loop, which is about 9.5 miles (15k) and takes you around the mountain to some quieter areas. I prefer going counter-clockwise but have done both directions. I've done Bell Pass Trail, which takes you to the summit of that one and back to the trailhead, which is 7 miles (11.2k). I've also hiked to Tom's Thumb from this trailhead which is about 11 miles (17.7k) roundtrip, which is nice because the trailhead for that trail is much further to drive to. Depending on the time of year, you will get to see a variety of wildlife and fauna, plus stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Throughout the years, I have seen deer, javelinas, desert tortoises, rattlesnakes, garden snakes, rabbits, lizards, tarantula, chipmunks, squirrels, birds, and probably more! I've seen a few owl feathers but no owls yet. I enjoy encountering wildlife because it reminds me that this is their home and we are just visiting. Regarding the rattlesnakes, keep your eyes (and ears) open as they can be found on the trails. Most hikers will warn you when they see one, even in the remote parts of the trail (if someone else is around). Overall, this is a wonderful trailhead that is well-maintained with bathrooms, water fountains, bottle refill, maps, volunteer stewards, plentiful parking, and the best part: a variety of trails! Highly recommend.

Rod P.

Yelp

We hiked several miles on the trails in this amazing desert preserve. To us midwesterners, the flora was interesting. The trails are easy in that there is little elevation gain but they are very rocky. The hikes are not strenuous but demand lots of attention to the trails.

Jaquay R.

Yelp

I love this place and haven't been in years since I moved to South Phoenix. I was meeting a friend for lunch in the area and decided to do a quick hike on one of the trails. It was a beautiful day with beautiful scenery. There were so many cars in the parking lot. I didn't want to be amongst the crowd if there was one so I chose the immediate trail to the left before entering the park gateway. I can't remember the trail name but it was peaceful. There were people walking back on my way in but it was less busy going in.

Pallavi P.

Yelp

Lots of fun! We did a 30 minute hike! It was very fun! Went with friends nd teachers! It was the best

G L.

Yelp

So here's the thing - you need to get here before other people. I love hiking or trail running here solo for conditioning because it's very safe with lots of regulars BUT my goodness it can get way too crowded. Aim for a weekday if possible, and if not, get up and get out early on the weekend. Great restrooms at trailhead. *If you are used to 'zona you'll be fine, but if you are not from the desert do take water and wear some shoes with good soles. This is a particularly rocky trail, be sure you have good support on your feet. ***There's no shade, so do not test the limits with your dog if it's getting too warm.

Ivy B.

Yelp

About 13 mile loop. Gateway to Bell Pass to Tom's Thumb to Windgate....great prep for Grand Canyon!

Michelle C.

Yelp

Excellent trail with varied options for easy, moderate or difficult trails to choose from. Wonderful assistance from staff on providing overview and maps of the trails. Bring plenty of water and enjoy your hike. Free parking and bathrooms as well available.

Renita F.

Yelp

I'm proud to announce that those as my very first hike as an Arizona newcomer and I'm so glad I did it. This trail was easy to find and had smoke parking. I love that it has several different trail options ranging from easy to very difficult. Every sign was easy to understand and follow. Everyone in the trail was so nice and patient with newbies like myself. Patrons brought their children and family pets along. The weather was perfect even at 8a! It seems the higher up we went the more frisk the air smelled. There were breathtaking views perfect for selfies and hikers even offered to snap photos for us. I love this trail and it's only 10 minutes from my home as I live near Greyhawk. This will definitely be my go to trail from now on.

Tia T.

Yelp

Everyone in the neighborhood knows about this gem. There are several trails from east to difficult and all types of people and families on the trails. We got here around 8:30. The late morning and on starts to get pretty packed. There is a bathroom area and water stations prior to hitting the trails as well as an information desk. Once you get a little fair in you will see the didnt trail options based on ease and length. What a beautiful view and right in north Scottsdale

Jon M.

Yelp

I had a great time hiking the trails at this Preserve. There's levels for all hikers. The entrance area is nice with clean toilet rooms and nice water fountains-even a foot activated one for dogs at ground level. The views from the upper elevations are fantastic! I'm looking forward to doing more trails here in the near future.

Amanda A.

Yelp

Started this hike at 6:45am on a Wednesday and not too busy. I did pass a handful of people, but the majority of the trail was just me, my pup, and nature. There is a good size parking lot and plenty of open spaces. There's a shaded area at the entrance with water fountains. The hike is about 4 miles for the loop. I went clockwise. The elevation gain was about 330 feet. Took me just under 2 hours. This is a good hike as it's fairly easy, but you do get some cardio in. Perfect for wanting to get out but not do a hard hike. Also good for those not used to hiking. You can also make this easier or harder depending on how you feel as there are many trails that branch off. There was a section of the hike (pretty much from top and back down) where there were so many gnats! At any given time I had 5 on me and they kept trying to fly up my nose and landing on my face. It made the rest of the hike not so pleasant. I'm not sure if it was the time of day/ season/ my scent but I've never encountered this on other hikes around the valley. Minus 1 star for this.

Travis T.

Yelp

I've been hitting this trailhead early in the mornings quite a bit this year. The Gateway Trailhead is part of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The starting point has a shaded facility with clean restrooms and a park ranger on hand to help guide you. They do have paper maps available if you need one. The beginning part of the loop can be packed at times. But once you get going, the foot traffic smooths out. In addition to cacti, there are beautiful wild flowers and lots of little desert critters along the way. They even have a small flat nature trail with interactive exhibits that is great for all ages. What I like about this trail is that you have many options to choose from. You can make it a short day or make it longer by accessing one of the many other trials that branch off of it. The Gateway Loop is around 4 miles and is rated moderate. Wear good shoes as the trail can be a little rocky. The most important thing to remember is to bring plenty of water (especially during the summers). Gateway Trail is both dog and bike friendly. Just keep in mind that they do prohibit electric bikes and dogs must be on a leash. The parking lot is pretty large and easy to find and open from dusk to dawn. This is Arizona - we have snakes. So don't mess with them if you see one.

Scott W.

Yelp

Without a doubt, one of my favorite trailheads at the McDowells! Tons and tons of ample parking with clean restrooms. Conveniently located and a great start to get you on what I refer to as the backside of the McDowells The only issue is you're forced to contend with a fairly major section of the Gateway Loop. It's obviously one of the more popular trails in the McDowells as it is relatively flat, it's easy for everyone and it's a "Gateway" to other sections of the preserve. I really don't have any other cons to this trailhead other than the popularity of it simply again, due to that popular Gateway Loop. Otherwose, the parking lot, trailhead and restrooms are quite pleasant and an awesome way to start your hike!

Meg B.

Yelp

A super fun trail. We went on a spring afternoon and it wasn't too hot. The trail is a little over 4 miles and took us just under 2 hours. Not super steep. Our 14 year managed it with no complaints! Beautiful views

Catherine A.

Yelp

We did the shorter 1 mile loop trail with four pregnant ladies and one recovering from knee surgery. This mostly flat trail will offer you great views of the mountains, cacti, and downtown Phoenix without totally taxing you. This is a great quick option if it's already too hot for longer walks, for the short-legged, short-attention spanned people (children), and those short on time. If you want to make it a little longer, spin off and do the nature walk on your way back to the trailhead. The gatehouse has nice bathrooms, a bottle fill station and water bottle, diorama of the area, and help station. The staff running the building are so friendly, happy to take photos of your group, and have tons of knowledge regarding the trails. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and lots of water. This trail is 100% exposed ... just like everything else in Arizona.

Jana H.

Yelp

First time hiking the loop (4.4miles) with our kids. It took us about 2 hours because we took a lot of breaks. Much cleaner this time, looks like people are learning to pick up after their dogs. Occasional shade, loose gravel, very easy hiking down.

sandy b.

Yelp

I remember the ribbon cutting ceremony here, many years ago. I enjoy hikes here. I especially like the picture boards to educate the public about the beauty of the desert. It is a fun activity to do with kids of all ages. Plenty of parking. Clean restrooms. during cover 19 about half the people are polite and wear masks.

Bevy V.

Yelp

Support your ankles and wear hiking boots (not sneakers) for this lovely, inclined hike. Great views along the way. Plenty of rose for parking .Didn't have a problem finding a parking spot.

Che L.

Yelp

Good for trail running. Good for giant saguaro cacti. Trailhead has bathrooms and a little amphitheater. Seems like a popular place for family photos near the trailhead. Gate closes 535 pm but people on the trailhead told me that there is a seeing eye gate that opens when you get to the gate from the inside. Not that strep inclines for first mile. After that the 700 some feet elevation gain is pretty mild compared to other peaks in Arizona but still got my heart rate up. Ran most of the trail.

Brett B.

Yelp

Gateway Loop is a great little trail you can do in under 2 hours. My work hiking group tackles it once a week... it's that easy We even came across a rattler posting up right in the walkway. Thankfully, our resident reptile whisperer was able to charm it straight into the brush. He's a good one to stick close to But given the choice, I'd gladly stroll this path and dish with Princess Candy Empire any old day

Gabriela S.

Yelp

Great local trail, you can go for a short hike or as long as you want, toilets and maps at the base trail head. Can be flat most of the time and very crowded with bikes and hikers. Get there early or go further on the trail, that will guarantee more nature and less lips flapping people.

Amy Z.

Yelp

Easy trails and very popular with tourist destination. If you want to hike on trail that less people, you can aim it to the right from the main trail. There are so many trail branches and just go and explore. Although you can get lost sometimes but there are always people that you can ask or get the hiking map that helps. March is best to spot wild poppies and other desert wild flowers and the weather is still pleasant. In April you'll see more cactus blooms in bright fuchsia but the weathers a bit warmer unless you start at 7:am. If you lucky enough you'll see wild desert tortoises roaming around the trails. This mountain is perfect for trail runs because it's mostly flat but be careful with rocks. Happy hiking & running!

Rose C.

Yelp

So pretty there! Lots of flat little hikes... with Educational boards for the kids to learn stuff about animals and plants in the desert, & easy on the knees if you're worried about that. they have all kinds of trails and it's free to enter but they do close at sundown the in gate. Highly recommend a hiking area. Lovely views and great photo Opportunities Especially at sundown!

John C.

Yelp

Great stopping point for the McDowells. There are multiple trails to hop to from the trailhead so regardless of the amount of bodies in the parking lot and at the staging area you can easily find yourself secluded in the Sonoran wilderness.

Ron H.

Yelp

Very easy trail to go on. Clearly marked trails. The bathroom is very clean and well kept. There are very well marked information signs about the area life and flora. It looks like one can be in a wheelchair on the trail, it is wide enough.

Elisabetta P.

Yelp

Amazing trail! Not too short and not too long. A total of 3.5 miles. It's nice because you end up in the same parking lot where your 4-wheel is. The trai is not too rocky, and very clean. I've never seen any wildlife here which I wish to see one day. I totally recommended this trail!

Brittany S.

Yelp

Rigorous terrain -- because there were so many rocks it took away from the breathtaking views. Overall, it's a good trail to get the Arizona experience, but be sure to wear your hiking boots. Nikes won't cut it.

Lisa V.

Yelp

This is a moderate-easy trail for me. Went with a small group. Didnt feel like an overlycrowded trail. Here and there bikers would need to pass by. Restrooms on site. Parking at 9am was a little tricky, as the lot was very full.

N L.

Yelp

So happy we decided to come here! I was visiting for a bachelorette party and we hiked Camelback which was cool, but this was so much better. From gateway trailhead there are several different trails you can hike, including Toms Thumb. I only had time to run about 3 miles. The trail is flat with small rocks, but I was able to run on it with no problem. There were people of all ages, including small children because you can do as much or as little as you want. The website and yelp reviews don't do it justice, we almost passed on it. We weren't expecting anything great based on the reviews, but were pleasantly surprised. I would definitely recommend this trail.

Amee C.

Yelp

Beautiful hike, not too crowded either. Saw lots of widelife... closes kind of early so don't plan on heading there too late

Marg F.

Yelp

A wonderful, saved -preserved portion of the beautiful Sonoran desert . Definitely, get over there and enjoy! It's educational. The people who put it together are awesome and I am great full.

@travelleisure

28,641 Postcards · 5,542 Cities

Hiking in Scottsdale: 9 Best Trails

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/best-hiking-scottsdale

Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

@matadornetwork

1,344 Postcards · 344 Cities

Nature and Parks in Phoenix

https://matadornetwork.com/destinations/north-america/united-states/phoenix-united-states/nature-parks/

MATADOR_NETWORK

Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

The Best of Winter in Scottsdale

Photo by Dennis Eckel, McDowell Sonoran Conservancy steward

Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

The Perfect Weekend in Scottsdale

Photo by Dennis Eckel, McDowell Sonoran Conservancy steward

Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Randy M.

Google

Rajesh B.

Google

Tim T.

Google

Anja L.

Google

Karma Calti D.

Google

Jo Y.

Google

Morgan Y

Google

Karen G.

Google

Haneen O.

Yelp

Rod P.

Yelp

Jaquay R.

Yelp

Pallavi P.

Yelp

Lots of fun! We did a 30 minute hike! It was very fun! Went with friends nd teachers! It was the best

G L.

Yelp

Ivy B.

Yelp

About 13 mile loop. Gateway to Bell Pass to Tom's Thumb to Windgate....great prep for Grand Canyon!

Michelle C.

Yelp

Renita F.

Yelp

Tia T.

Yelp

Jon M.

Yelp

Amanda A.

Yelp

Travis T.

Yelp

Scott W.

Yelp

Meg B.

Yelp

Catherine A.

Yelp

Jana H.

Yelp

sandy b.

Yelp

Bevy V.

Yelp

Support your ankles and wear hiking boots (not sneakers) for this lovely, inclined hike. Great views along the way. Plenty of rose for parking .Didn't have a problem finding a parking spot.

Che L.

Yelp

Brett B.

Yelp

Gabriela S.

Yelp

Amy Z.

Yelp

Rose C.

Yelp

John C.

Yelp

Ron H.

Yelp

Elisabetta P.

Yelp

Brittany S.

Yelp

Lisa V.

Yelp

N L.

Yelp

Amee C.

Yelp

Beautiful hike, not too crowded either. Saw lots of widelife... closes kind of early so don't plan on heading there too late

Marg F.

Yelp

A wonderful, saved -preserved portion of the beautiful Sonoran desert . Definitely, get over there and enjoy! It's educational. The people who put it together are awesome and I am great full.

Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

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Hiking in Scottsdale: 9 Best Trails

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Hiking in Scottsdale: 9 Best Trails

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