North side of Gateway Loop Trail

Meet at the pavilion and hike towards Tom s Thumb, taking a left on the Gateway Loop Trail. We turn around at the turnoff for the loop (at the Gateway Loop/Windgate Pass Trail Split), and are back to the parking lot an hour after start time. This shorter hike is around 1.6 miles in, and total of 3.2 miles return with an elevation gain of a little more than 400 ft. Gateway Loop Option: anyone with the time and inclination can continue around the loop, adding 20 to 30 minutes to the overall time. We can decide collectively at the turnoff whether to take the extra time. You ll find a Gateway Loop Trail (http://earlyrisehiker.com/2017/03/gateway-loop-trail/) description, statistics, photo of the Gateway Trailhead, map, and downloadable GPS files at the Early Rise Hiker Blog (http://earlyrisehiker.com/). Also, note: We usually hike together, some people will wish to move more quickly or more slowly than the majority. You should come prepared to guide yourself in case you don t stay with the group for any reason. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me in advance or speak with me at the trail head! Warning: every hike involves a certain level of risk, which you must take on completely. I am a volunteer organizer, not a hike guide of any sort. You must think ahead, gauge your ability, bring the things you will need, and be aware that something could go wrong. Early Rise Hikers, its organizer, assistant organizers, event organizers and event hosts are not responsible for any injuries or accidents that may occur carpooling to and from this event, or for any injuries or accidents incurred before, during, and after this event. If you sign up or participate in an event you acknowledge that you freely and voluntarily agree to assume all risks of injuries and damages arising from, as a result of and associated with this event. Further, we live in a desert where you WILL sweat out a lot of water very quickly trying to keep your body cool. Even though we are leaving early in the morning you still need to bring water with you. There is no formula for how much water you will need so ALWAYS err on the side of caution. It would also be wise to have some electrolytes and a snack on hand. Remember, only YOU are responsible for your own safety. ------------------------------------ Want to follow Early Rise Activities? Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/earlyrisehikers/)! We re also on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/early_rise_hiker/).