Field guide
Gateway Trailhead hours, parking, and facilities
Find official information for Gateway Trailhead in Scottsdale, AZ. This guide covers parking availability, on-site facilities, and trail rules for dogs.
Gateway Trailhead is a public access point for trails located at 18333 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy. in Scottsdale, Arizona. It provides entry to the trail system for runners and hikers.
This page provides official information on access, parking, available facilities, and rules for trail use, including specific regulations for dogs.
Official facts at a glance
- Type of place
- Trailhead
- Address
- 18333 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy. Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- GPS Coordinates
- 33° 38' 56.23"N, 111° 51' 32.96"W
- Entry fees
- Free of charge
- Parking availability
- Parking, horse-trailer parking
- Restrooms availability
- Yes
- Drinking water availability
- Yes (water, water trough)
- Dog rules (leash)
- Must be on handheld leash, no longer than six (6) feet at all times.
- Dog rules (waste)
- Waste must be picked up immediately and disposed of in a trash container or carried with you. Loose or bagged waste on the trail is prohibited.
- Electric bike rules
- Electric bikes are not allowed.
- Dog heat safety rule
- If it is over 90 degrees at any time in your hike, it's too hot for your dog.
- Notable features
- Shade ramadas, accessible Bajada Nature Trail, hitching rails, interpretive signage
Source: McDowell Sonoran Preserve (scottsdaleaz.gov). Official page, checked Oct 21, 2026.
Location and access
The trailhead is located at 18333 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy., Scottsdale, AZ 85255. Its GPS coordinates are 33° 38' 56.23"N, 111° 51' 32.96"W.
Parking is available for vehicles and for horse trailers. There are no entry fees to use the trailhead.
On-site facilities
Restrooms and drinking water are available at the trailhead. The site also has a water trough.
Visitors will find shade ramadas, hitching rails, and interpretive signage. The accessible Bajada Nature Trail is located here.
Rules for trail users
Dogs must be on a handheld leash that is no longer than six feet at all times. Owners must pick up dog waste immediately and dispose of it in a trash container or carry it out.
Leaving loose or bagged waste on the trail is prohibited. For safety, do not bring a dog if the temperature is over 90 degrees at any point during your hike. Electric bikes are not allowed.
Before you go
- Entry to the trailhead is free of charge.
- Restrooms and drinking water are available on site.
- Dogs must be on a handheld leash that is six feet or shorter.
- Remember to pick up and properly dispose of all dog waste.
- Do not hike with your dog if temperatures will exceed 90 degrees.
- Electric bikes are not permitted on the trails.
Nearby options: running and active spots in Scottsdale. All cities: City running and hiking guides.