Nature Preserve · Scottsdale
Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Why Scout picked it
Gateway Trailhead is ideal for a 2-3 hour hike in the desert, suitable for active families or solo adventurers looking for scenic views. It costs nothing to access and pairs well with a casual meal afterward.
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Tickets & experiences at Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Sonoran Desert Guided Mountain Bike Tour
4.6 (12)3 hrFrom $155
See details for Sonoran Desert Guided Mountain Bike Tour
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Bookable now
Tours near Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Bookable experiences within about 15 miles of Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Phoenix Zoo Admission Ticket
3.8 (159)1 day14.7 mi awayFrom $45
See details for Phoenix Zoo Admission Ticket
Phoenix Scenic Biplane Flight with Open-Cockpit Aerial Views
5.0 (35)1.5 hr9.3 mi awayFrom $279
See details for Phoenix Scenic Biplane Flight with Open-Cockpit Aerial Views
Sonoran Desert To MountainTop Jeep Tour minutes from Scottsdale
5.0 (27)2.5 hr12.6 mi awayFrom $175
See details for Sonoran Desert To MountainTop Jeep Tour minutes from Scottsdale
Public Sunset Great Western Trail Jeep Tour
5.0 (21)3 hr7.8 mi awayFrom $169
See details for Public Sunset Great Western Trail Jeep Tour
Original Tesla Cyber Truck Jetsurf Tour in the Sonoran Desert
5.0 (21)3 hr11.2 mi awayFrom $225
See details for Original Tesla Cyber Truck Jetsurf Tour in the Sonoran Desert
Public Great Western Trail Jeep Day Tour
5.0 (16)3 hr7.8 mi awayFrom $169
See details for Public Great Western Trail Jeep Day Tour
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Hours
- Sunday
- 7 AM – 6 PM
- Monday
- 7 AM – 6 PM
- Tuesday
- 7 AM – 6 PM
- Wednesday
- 7 AM – 6 PM
- Thursday
- 7 AM – 6 PM
- Friday
- 7 AM – 6 PM
- Saturday
- 7 AM – 6 PM
Times shown in America/Phoenix
What to expect
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible parking
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Paid parking lot
- Free street parking
Featured in these outings
- Morning Hike and Eclectic Finds in Scottsdale — Start your morning on the desert trails at Gateway Trailhead in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, where scenic paths offer panoramic mountain views. Afterward, head south to Echo Coffee for in-house organic roasts and fresh pastries to recharge. Finish your outing by browsing curated consignment furniture and home decor at The Lost and Found Resale Interiors.
While you're nearby
Scout verified September 2026 · Hours & status refreshed 44d ago · Data via Google Maps
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Where to stay
Hotels near Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve
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