Phoenix (2-Hour) Beginner Hikers

Gateway Loop - McDowells

March 22 · 10:00 AM
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This hike is rated INTERMEDIATE.

We'll meet near the restrooms at the Gateway entrance to Scottsdale's McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The hiking paced will be at a mild rate, not an extreme fast fitness pace. The hikes may vary each week, but will be 5 miles or less in length and completed in less than 2 hours. These hikes will start on time and the expectation is that it will end at or before the stated end time for those who do need to get to work. All the trails and intersections in McDowell Sonoran Preserve are well-marked. Bring lots of water, durable hiking footwear, snacks, and a camera.

Trail Length: Gateway Loop 4.42 miles

Time: 2 hours

Elevation Gain: 800 feet

Difficulty: Moderate
Facilities: Restrooms, water
Trail Style: lollipop style

It's not unusual for members of our group to go for coffee and/or food afterwards to Tom’s Thumb Fresh Market/Car-wash/Gas Station. Check out their menu

Tom's Thumb Fresh Market www.tomsthumbfreshmarket.com/ 9393 East Bell Rd, Scottsdale, AZ

This hike is cross posted with Greyhawk Hiking Club and Phoenix 2-Hour Beginner Hikers

WEBSITE: Trailmap

DIRECTIONS: The address is 18333 Thompson Peak Pkwy in Scottsdale and is located on the east side of the street just north of the Bell Rd intersection. The entry street to the trailhead is labeled Carla Way. The Google map link above will get you there.

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Earnestine Chotkowski

It was a good hike, especially after I figured out trailmix and two hour beginner hikers was the same group. We almost ran into a rattlesnake. It rattled its tail and I heard it, but I didn't know what it was. Thankfully Myra stopped us just in time. I never saw a rattlesnake before so I took a picture.

1 · March 22
- View all 6 replies
- Jim Kortegast
  
  We are all the same, Earnestine -- mixed together! I even answer to "Grayhawk" now!
  
  0 · March 23
- Earnestine Chotkowski
  
  Hi. I asked a few people if the group was 2 hour beginner hikers and they all said no. I'm just glad I had people to hike with and had a fun time. Yes, I agree we are all the same.
  
  1 · March 24
- Jim Kortegast
  
  Hello Earnestine! I can’t believe that anyone from any of our groups would be rude, so hopefully the one(s) you asked were not part of our group. Now that you know some of us, we will be easy to spot. We were very happy that you joined us! I am proud to be part of the "Phoenix (2-Hour) Beginner Hikers"! Norm clucks his tongue at us, but he's an old man and he doesn't know what he is doing. Hah!
  
  I should have asked you if you wanted to trot down with me on Friday since I noticed your athletic skills but that was the first time I’d seen you. It’s getting very warm, so I was slow anyway! Have a great week!
  
  0 · March 24
- Earnestine Chotkowski
  
  Hi Jim. As far as I know, no was was rude. Where did you hear that rumor? I think me and a few others just didn't realize the group was a mix of groups. It all worked out beautifully, and although I'm not athletic I had so much fun I didn't even feel the pain on the way back.
  
  1 · March 24
- Jim Kortegast
  
  Good Morning, Earnestine! Well that's great news. I'm glad it all worked out so well. I hope to see you on another hike soon. Maybe you can teach me how not to feel the pain!
  
  Take care.
  
  0 · March 25
- Earnestine Chotkowski
  
  It's easy, just focus on the beauty.
  
  0 · March 25
Susan Paul-Souza

Great hike! Beautiful scenery and a good workout.

0 · March 23
Norma

Had a great time. Thanks Renee for hiding the rear with us.

0 · March 22
Jim Kortegast

There is a delicious strong breeze outside right now. Where was this during our hike?

1 · March 22
Jim Kortegast

Great hike this morning with a practically all-new group! I appreciated the pace and then self-pace allowed. Yoe, I really wanted lunch too, but some of us have to work, NORM!

The group photo is excellent.

Thanks Rene!

0 · March 22
Earnestine Chotkowski

Me, Susan, and Paul are here.

0 · March 22
Earnestine Chotkowski

Hi, anybody here?

0 · March 22
Russ

Apologies for late cancellation. Didn't sleep well again last night.

0 · March 22
Nick N.

I won't be joining you this week. Under doctor's orders I am to avoid harsh sunlight and long periods of exercise for the next few weeks. That kinda rules out hiking. Bummer. :(

0 · March 20
- Rene
  
  That sure is a bummer. Hope u have a speedy recovery.
  
  0 · March 20
- Nick N.
  
  Thanks Rene!
  
  0 · March 21
Susan Paul-Souza

just checking on address..we're new in town. It's 18333 NORTH Thompson Peak Pkwy?

0 · March 21
- Nick N.
  
  Yep, that's the correct address. Welcome to Phoenix.
  
  0 · March 21
Darlene

looks like fun...see you there.

0 · March 21
John Haggerty

Rene are pushing the time back...PLEASE :)

0 · March 16
charlie sims

Too far or I will

0 · February 23

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Gateway Loop - McDowells

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