TrailSonoran Desert
Gateway Loop
Moderate4.4 mi loop718 ft gain
The valley’s benchmark desert loop. Excellent interpretive signage and a saddle view over the whole McDowell range.
- Distance
- 4.4 mi loop
- Elevation gain
- 718 ft
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Trailhead
- McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Before you go
Conditions, access, and honest warnings.
- Signed and mapped better than any other loop in the valley, a good first desert hike.
- Walk it counterclockwise to get the steep climb over with early and cruise the descent.
- Heavily used by mountain bikers. Listen for wheels behind you on the fast downhill sections.
Trailhead park
Where this route begins.