Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Gateway Trailhead is the main entry point to over 30,500 acres of protected Sonoran Desert land near Scottsdale. The area features a network of hiking trails, biking routes, and horseback riding paths across diverse desert terrain.

The preserve developed from a community effort to protect the desert landscape from urban sprawl in the Scottsdale area. This conservation project has maintained the natural terrain for public use.

The trailhead displays information about the desert plants, animals, and rock formations that define this landscape. You will notice how local people spend time here to connect with the Sonoran Desert environment.

The trailhead has parking areas, restrooms, water stations, and shade structures available year-round at the main entrance. Plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and the trails are less crowded.

The Bajada Nature Trail is a fully accessible path designed for families, strollers, and wheelchairs to explore the desert landscape. This specially designed route allows visitors of all abilities to experience the ecosystem without barriers.

Address: 18333 N Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Phone: +(480)3127013

Website: http://scottsdaleaz.gov/preserve

GPS coordinates: 33.64943,-111.85847

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:22