Gateway Trailhead

Sonoran Desert packrats have been collecting and preserving things found on the ground for 40,000 years! Stop by the Trailside Naturalist Station at the Gateway Trailhead between 9:00 and 11:00 A.M. to learn how ancient packrats and their distinctive behavior assist today's scientists who study the history of desert plants, animals, geology and climate.

Gateway to Windgate Pass Fitness Hike from Gateway Trailhead Head up to Windgate Pass on this Very Difficult hike with a visit to Inspiration Viewpoint. Along the way, you may see some wildflowers that only grow at higher elevations such as the Mariposa Lily. 7.5 miles over about 3.5 – 4 hours with elevation gain […]

Stop by the Trailside Naturalist station at Gateway Trailhead between 9-11 am to learn about all the different types of nests our desert birds make.

Jackrabbits, mountain lions, javelina, bobcats, and more!!  Stop by the Trailside Naturalist Station at Gateway Trailhead between 9:00 am and 11:00 am to learn all about the mammals of the Sonoran Desert.

Bajada Trail Walk at Gateway Trailhead: Join us for a leisurely walk on the wondrous Bajada Trail. A slower pace over 1 mile will allow us time to stop for various discussions of the desert. Allow 1-1.5 hours. Bathrooms are available at the trailhead. Bring water for the trail. No dogs please.  Arrive 15 minutes […]

Spiders, scorpions, and bugs!  Did you know that about 84% of all animals are arthropods?  Stop by the Trailside Naturalist station at the Gateway Trailhead between 9-11 A.M. to learn about the fascinating world of arthropods.

One of the geologists who was instrumental in the discovery of the Marcus Landslide in the McDowell Mountains, Brian Gottee will be sharing on the unique rock forms and geology of the region. Brian’s fun and educational presentation will offer interesting insights on the geological history and evolution of the McDowell Mountains.

Windgate Pass/Bell Pass Loop Fitness Hike from Gateway Trailhead. Ready for a great workout? Then this Very Difficult hike in the heart of the southern McDowells is for you. We go to Windgate Pass and around to Bell Pass before returning to the trailhead. 9.5 miles for about 5 hours with over 2000ft. of elevation […]

Stop by the Trailside Naturalist station at the Gateway Trailhead between 9-11 A.M. to learn about the various reptiles of the Sonoran desert, their unique behavior, eating habits and benefit to the ecosystem

Arthropods of the Sonoran Desert Family Educational Hike at Gateway Trailhead  Scorpions, Spiders, Bees and Wasps are just the beginning – there are more species of Arthropods in the world than any other group of animals. Join Dr. Rich Cochran on this easy approximately 2 mile walk to discover the fascinating and diverse world of […]

New to hiking? Want to get in shape in the New Year? Come meet Ray and Debbie Hendricks, lifelong hiking guides and owners of Just Roughin’ It Adventure Company. The Hendricks will cover the basics of hiking, including desert hiking techniques and essential equipment. They’ll also provide a guide to some easy beginner trails in […]

Did you know that saguaros have boots?  Stop by the Trailside Naturalist station at Gateway Trailhead between 9-11 am to learn about cactus, trees, and shrubs found in the Preserve.