MODERATE: Gateway Trailhead to Inspiration Point

MODERATE HIKE: From the Gateway Trailhead at the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve we will hike on the Saguaro Trail to the Gateway Loop Trail to the Windgate Pass Trail to Inspiration Point where we will discover inspiring views and a poem etched into one of the rocks on the trail.
This is an in/out hike that wraps around Drinkwater and McDowell Peaks as it takes you up to ever more beautiful views of mountains, steep canyons, lush Sonoran Desert, and views of the Scottsdale Valley and McDowell Mountains, Tom's Thumb, and more. A nice diversity of views makes this a favorite for the club. Trail has a few steep vertical climbs making hiking poles helpful but not required.

Trailhead: 18333 N Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale

Hike distance: 5.8 miles

Trailhead Elevation: 1720 ft

AEG: 1,055 ft

Driving Distance: RT 75 miles

Driver’s fee: $5

Trailhead facilities: clean, established bathrooms

Hike Leader: Warren Wasescha 651-343-8256