At 3,031 feet, Windgate Pass offers sweeping views in multiple directions. The trail gaining the pass is not as steep as some of the summit trails in the McDowell Mountains and can be easily included in different routes/loops. The Pass separates McDowell Peak and The Lookout.

Andrus

October 19, 2023

Mountain biking

Windgate Pass sits between McDowell Peak and The Lookout with panoramic views in nearly every direction. The ride up is a steady climb but nothing to difficult skill wise but your legs will feel it for sure. It's multi-use so be courteous to other trail users and bring plenty of water.

Jhartland

September 5, 2025

Mountain biking

Tough climbs but great descents and views.

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

Routes here

Best Mountain Biking Routes to Windgate Pass

riders

1. Windgate Pass & Bell Pass – McDowell Mountain

16.0km

01:34

620m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

riders

2. Windgate Pass loop — McDowell Sonoran Preserve

16.0km

01:56

600m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

riders

3. Windgate Pass – Bell Pass Trail loop from McDowell Mountain Ranch

54.7km

05:54

1,540m

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Hard

Details

Informations

Elevation 920 m

Weather

Today

Sunday 25 January

17°C

4°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h

See routes here

Take Me There

Add komoot as a preferred source in your Google results

Add now

Location: Scottsdale, Maricopa County, Arizona, United States

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Balanced Rock

Latigo Trail

The Zen Zone

Echo Canyon Trail

Taliesin & Quartz Trails

Lost Dog Wash Trail

Arizona Falls

Windgate Pass Trail

Jackass Junction Shelter

View of McDowell Mountains from Country Service Road

Gateway Loop Trail

Arizona Canal Path

Windgate Pass

1. Windgate Pass & Bell Pass – McDowell Mountain

2. Windgate Pass loop — McDowell Sonoran Preserve

3. Windgate Pass – Bell Pass Trail loop from McDowell Mountain Ranch

Other Popular Places to Check Out

We value your privacy ⛰️

We value your privacy ⛰️