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Rocky loop with steady uphills turning in to remotely steep switchbacks before the saddle each way.


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Map Key

3.6

Miles

5.8

KM

Singletrack

2,379' 725 m

High

1,765' 538 m

Low

623' 190 m

Up

631' 192 m

Down

7%

Avg Grade (4°)

19%

Max Grade (11°)

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Not Allowed

Description

You can access the Gateway loop from a number of trails. The most popular access point being the McDowell Sonoran Preserve parking lot then a half mile ride to the loop. Beware, it is fairly rocky here.

Clockwise and counter-clockwise are each enjoyable rides. Both of which have a steady uphill, followed by steep switchback climbs. Once to the saddle, it's the same way on the way back down in each direction. There are trail heads heading east towards Fountain Hills, and north towards Tom's thumb if you decide to go exploring.

This is a fun, not too challenging ride. Some areas by the saddle can be a bit hairy if you aren't experienced.

Recommendations:
- Ride early or at night when there are fewer hikers.
- Direction to ride: Ride wherever the incline is shadowed, depending on the time of day, season and sun. Or whatever you are feeling.
- This trail is awesome after a nice rain.

Contacts

Shared By:

B. Miner

Trail Ratings

  3.3 from 15 votes

#13218

Overall
  3.3 from 15 votes
5 Star
7%
4 Star
47%
3 Star
33%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
13%
Trail Rankings

#371

in Arizona

#13,218

Overall
16 Views Last Month
2,416 Since Nov 5, 2014
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

0%
0%
31%
19%
50%
0%

Photos

At Gateway Saddle looking south/southwest
Sep 5, 2018 near Fountai…, AZ
Gateway Saddle Loop trail view of North Scottsdale
Nov 5, 2014 near Fountai…, AZ
Looking back north towards a typical rocky section of trail.  Very few smooth sections of trail can be found on the north portion of Gateway.
Dec 6, 2015 near Fountai…, AZ
At Gateway Saddle looking east at sunrise
Sep 5, 2018 near Fountai…, AZ

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Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 12 days ago
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