Tom's Thumb Loop from Gateway

We'll meet near the restrooms at the Gateway entrance to Scottsdale's McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

Please assess your ability to do this hike very carefully.

This will be my first time hiking to Tom's Thumb but my very experienced and knowledgeable co-host, Tim Hochberg, has hiked to "The Thumb" numerous times.  Thank you Tim for agreeing to serve as my guide/co-host for this amazing hike.

For the hike we'll start out on Saguaro Trail, left on Gateway Loop Trail, straight onto Windgate Pass Trail, left onto Tom's Thumb Trail, pass Tom's Thumb (optional side trip to Tom's Thumb), right onto East End Trail, right on Windmill Trail, straight on Windgate Pass Trail, straight on Gateway Loop Trail, right on Saguaro Trail back to where we started.

There are lots of steep ups and downs with loose rocks so be careful. We will go at a fast pace. You're encouraged to bring snacks, a camera and must bring at least 2+ liters of water per person and sturdy hiking footwear.

I am looking for a sweep (someone to cover the backside of the group).  Let me know if you would like to volunteer to sweep for this hike.


Trail Length: about 12 miles

Estimated Completion Time:  6 hours (includes a few breaks)
Elevation Change: 2205 feet (highest point - 3925 feet, lowest point - 1720 feet)
Cumulative Elevation Gain: about 2800 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
Facilities: at TH
Trail Style: loop
Dogs: Yes, if leashed

 

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  • Marshall

    A great hike with a great group! Thanks for leading Amina. Are we ready for the GC yet?

    4 · March 16

    • Amina Dee

      Marshall, Forgive me for taking three days to say thank you for sweeping. I'm soooo bad. You're the best. A

      March 19

    • Marshall

      No sweat. I know you appreciate it.

      March 19

  • Amina Dee

    Thanks everyone for coming out yesterday. It was a beautiful day and the wildflowers were a wonderful treat for us desert hikers. C U all soon on the trails again soon.

    March 17

  • David

    It was a pleasure hiking with a friendly group of Trailmixers. Thanks to Amina and Tim for doing such a good job of organizing and leading!

    1 · March 17

  • Amina Dee

    On my way.

    March 16

  • Dan Widmaier

    Called into work, sorry. Have a great hike.

    March 16

  • Perry Bruneo

    Woke up and still not feeling that great. Don't have the confidence I can do the long hike. Thought i 'd feel better this morning

    March 16

  • Amina Dee

    Hi Everyone,

    It's going to be much warmer (90 degree high) than I was anticipating it would be for this time of the year. As such, please BRING LOTS OF WATER and some snacks to replenish you electrolytes.

    Additionally, if we have any overheating or health related concerns, we will change the plan to ensure everyone's safety.
    Looking forward to seeing everyone on Saturday morning at 8.

    March 14

  • John Haggerty

    Thanks something else came up so I won't be able to make it. Thank you for grabbing a spot for me and will see you next time!

    March 10

  • John Haggerty

    Can I get on waiting list Amina

    March 8

    • Amina Dee

      I opened up a spot 4 u.

      1 · March 8

    • Amina Dee

      Hi John, Did you change your mind? I added two open spots on Friday thinking you would RSVP and you didn't. Now, both spots have been taken.

      March 10

  • Marshall

    Amina ... I volunteer to sweep.

    March 4

    • Amina Dee

      Yeah!!! Thanks so much Marshall.

      March 4

  • Sandra

    I'm bringing my friend Debbie.

    February 12

  • Sandra

    I'm bringing my end Debbie.

    February 12

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