Western Gateway Loop

From the parking lot, follow the flat Arizona Cypress train, which has a sand surface for much of the way until reaching the intersection with "Connector". Make a right and criss-cross the bed of Dry Creek until hitting Rupp Trail. Make a right and start the climb where 360 views of the surrounding red rocks emerge.After 2.25 miles make a left onto a small signposted connector trail (Rover Trail) which drops down to meet Axis at 3 miles. Follow Axis south for about 1.5 miles until it intersects Girder Trail. Make a left here and start the journey back to the parking lot. This is about halfway.Girdner Trail has been re-routed here from old trails. It no longer follows the creek-bed, but travels higher up the slope. Walk Girder Trail for about 4 miles and make the left at the post to Snake Trail, which drops down to the starting point at Arizona Cypress.