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McDowell Sonoran Preserve
4.9 ★★★★★ 89 Google reviews · Running trail in Scottsdale, Arizona · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- 230 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from McDowell Sonoran Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Nature preserve featuring hiking trails and mountain biking opportunities.
What runners say about McDowell Sonoran Preserve
“The stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and pristine trails make it a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Scottsdale.”
“Many well-marked trails of different lengths.”
Go early! This is a beautiful preserve and it’s very popular. The parking lot is big, but fills up by 9 or 10 a.m. in the cool months. There are lots of different hikes in the preserve, but the main trail is the Gateway Loop, about 4 miles.
Last weekend, my boyfriend and I decided to check out McDowell Sonoran Preserve, and it was an absolute vibe. It's this massive nature reserve just outside of Scottsdale, and it's the perfect escape from the usual weekend routine.
The irony of Arizona. You maybe in the desert but you can really reconnect with nature. Great place to go hiking. There is something breath taking about walking along the mountains and looking at all the cacti.
Absolutely recommend a morning hike in this beautiful Scottsdale preserve. I visited from Colorado and was impressed with the clean trailhead restrooms, volunteer staff helping you find the perfect trail for your time frame and skill level, and amount of free parking.
Trail conditions & character
“The stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and pristine trails make it a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Scottsdale.”
“We kicked off at the Gateway Trailhead – super straightforward to find and with heaps of parking space.”
“You’ll definitely work up a sweat, and the trail is rocky (wear hiking shoes), but it’s awesome.”
“All seemed to be fairly flat in the sections we traveled.”
“There are lots of different hikes in the preserve, but the main trail is the Gateway Loop, about 4 miles.”
“Gateway Trail and nearby bridge are perfect for a morning walk/hike with not much incline although there are some little rocks so no strollers.”
“They’re simply perfect for short to long runs.”
Plan your run at McDowell Sonoran Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Loop distance230 mi back to where you parked. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitescottsdaleaz.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Scottsdale
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve
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Trailhead accessing several hiking & biking trails that vary in skill level & offer scenic views.
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Westworld Trailhead
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