The best hikes are accessible year-round and have equally gorgeous views in all four seasons, and Gateway Loop Trail at McDowell Sonoran Preserve is one such adventure. It’s short, easy, and incredibly scenic, leading to a jaw-dropping overlook that requires minimal effort to reach. If you’ve been searching for family-friendly hikes in Arizona, look no further!
Next time you’re in the mood for a short and sweet adventure, don’t look any further than the Gateway Loop Trail at McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
AllTrails/Grant Arnold It’s one of the most popular hikes in Scottsdale, and for good reason. At just over four miles long, it’s perfect for a quick sunrise stroll or meditative evening walk.
What really sets this trail apart is the fact that it’s accessible year-round, and the views are breathtaking no matter the season.
AllTrails/Nick Tomas Regardless of the weather, the mountainous landscape studded with mighty Saguaros never gets old.
The loop is rated as moderate on AllTrails, with an elevation gain of just over 700 feet.
AllTrails/Jas Lee It’s a gradual ascent, however, so even beginners should have no problem reaching the summit.
In the spring and summer, eye-catching wildflowers line the path, making each step more magical than the last.
AllTrails/Drew III Not much about the terrain changes when fall and winter roll around - it is southern Arizona, after all. But as far as we’re concerned, the mild climate is a blessing rather than a curse!
Don’t leave your furry friend at home - leashed dogs are welcome and encouraged to accompany their owners.
AllTrails/Jolyn Safranek The trail is also kid friendly, so it can be a whole-of-family affair.
If possible, we recommend embarking on the hike at either sunrise or sunset.
AllTrails/Michael Shulman Not only are the views unbeatable, but you’ll also practically have the trail all to yourself.
Feel free to customize your adventure, as the trail connects to several others within the park.
AllTrails/Ruth Brown You can explore the area for as little or as much time as your heart desires. That’s the beauty of this hike!
Click here to learn more about the trail. Have you ever hiked Gateway Loop Trail? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Tell us in the comments, and check out our previous article for more family-friendly hikes in Arizona.
AllTrails/Grant Arnold
It’s one of the most popular hikes in Scottsdale, and for good reason. At just over four miles long, it’s perfect for a quick sunrise stroll or meditative evening walk.
AllTrails/Nick Tomas
Regardless of the weather, the mountainous landscape studded with mighty Saguaros never gets old.
AllTrails/Jas Lee
It’s a gradual ascent, however, so even beginners should have no problem reaching the summit.
AllTrails/Drew III
Not much about the terrain changes when fall and winter roll around - it is southern Arizona, after all. But as far as we’re concerned, the mild climate is a blessing rather than a curse!
AllTrails/Jolyn Safranek
The trail is also kid friendly, so it can be a whole-of-family affair.
AllTrails/Michael Shulman
Not only are the views unbeatable, but you’ll also practically have the trail all to yourself.
AllTrails/Ruth Brown
You can explore the area for as little or as much time as your heart desires. That’s the beauty of this hike!
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Address: Gateway Loop Trail, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, USA
