Bike loop from Gateway Trailhead
Bike loop from Gateway Trailhead
3.0
(25)
77
riders
Bike loop from Gateway Trailhead
02:28
24.3km
570m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 23.3 km for 106 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
7 m
The Gateway Trail System Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
24.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
17.5 km
3.62 km
2.94 km
286 m
Surfaces
20.4 km
3.62 km
262 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 7 July
31°C
11°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging desert ride with rewarding views, the Bike loop from Gateway Trailhead delivers. This difficult touring cycling route covers 15.1 miles (24.3 km) with a significant 1861 feet (567 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 27 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for experienced cyclists ready to tackle varied terrain and enjoy the Sonoran Desert.
What to expect on Bike loop from Gateway Trailhead
Expect a diverse ride through the beautiful Sonoran Desert ecosystem. While the initial half-mile from the Gateway Trailhead is flat, the route quickly introduces you to a mix of singletrack, loose rocks, and steep, rocky ascents. You'll pedal past iconic saguaro, cholla, and palo verde cacti, with opportunities to spot desert wildlife, all while enjoying excellent views of the surrounding mountains. Be prepared for some "gnarly rocky sections" that might require dismounting and pushing your bike, making this best suited for touring cyclists with good fitness and technical skills.
Planning your visit
The Gateway Trailhead is well-equipped, offering free parking, restrooms, water fountains, and shade ramadas, making it an ideal starting point. No entrance fees or permits are required to access the preserve or its trails. Consider riding clockwise for more gradual climbing, and always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer parts of the day. The preserve is part of the extensive McDowell Sonoran Preserve network.
Trail details
- Distance: 15.1 miles (24.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 1861 feet (567 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 27 minutes
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