Hiking, Biking & Trail Guide - 23

RECOMMENDED HIKES
BAJADA NATURE TRAIL LOOP
This ADA accessible trail is ideal for families with young children or strollers, the elderly,
people using wheelchairs or walkers, and others with mobility challenges. As the trail
winds across the bajada, interpretive exhibits reveal fascinating stories of the plants and
animals that call the McDowell Sonoran Preserve home. It's the perfect introduction to the
Sonoran Desert!
Route: Head east on the Saguaro Trail for 0.1mi (0.16km) and follow the signs to the Bajada Nature
Trail on your right.
LENGTH:
ELEVATION CHANGE:
DI FFICULTY:
USE:
Two loop options - 0.45mi or 0.7mi / 0.72km or 1.13km
43ft / 13.1m
m Easiest / ADA Accessible
Hiking, walking, wheelchairs, strollers
GATEWAY LOOP
One of the most popular trails in the Preserve, the Gateway Loop gives you the feeling
of being immersed in the serenity of the Sonoran Desert while providing a great fitness
opportunity. The trail passes over the Gateway Saddle, from which you'll enjoy expansive
scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Bump up your pace if you'd like to get
a good workout while enjoying the views.
Route: From the Gateway Trailhead, head east on the Saguaro Trail to the junction with the Gateway
Loop Trail. From this point, you can go left or right, as it is a loop trail and will return you to this location.
LENGTH:
ELEVATION CHANGE:
DI FFICULTY:
USE:
4.5mi / 7.2km (loop)
655ft / 199.6m
n Moderate
Hiking, biking, horseback riding
WINDGATE AND BELL PASS LOOP
If you're an experienced and well-prepared hiker looking for a challenging trek, this is the
hike for you. Stunning desert terrain, spectacular mountain and valley views, and a great
workout are your rewards for tackling this calorie-crunching hike known for its steep
inclines and rugged stretches.
Route: From the trailhead, go east on the Saguaro Trail, then left on the Gateway Loop Trail to the
Windgate Pass Trail. Follow the Windgate Pass Trail as it climbs to Inspiration Viewpoint, then on to
Windgate Pass. Continue east and you'll begin your descent along the eastern slope of the McDowell
Mountains. At the Bell Pass Trail junction, turn right and begin your ascent to Bell Pass. Continue west
and turn left at the Gateway Loop Trail then left again on the Saguaro Trail to return to the trailhead.
LENGTH:
ELEVATION CHANGE:
DI FFICULTY:
USE:
Approx. 9.6mi / 15.5km (loop)
1,400ft / 426.7m
u Difficult
Hiking*, biking*, horseback riding* (*experienced and well-prepared only)
ExperienceScottsdale.com
23

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