There are many places to start this loop from really as it crosses other trails and the main road twice. The 15 mile loop can be cut in half or about more by either the Tonto Tank tr or the Bluff tr (very fun) that bisects the main loop. Most of this trail is pretty wide open desert riding, fun and fast it has a bit of a roller coaster feel to its flow. From the Pemberton there are several trails that lead out like spokes from a hub, the Scenic Loop tr is a 3 mile loop that is popular with the equestrian group. The Rock Knob tr, the Coach Whip trail is access to the Windmill tr that goes up and over the mountains to the Gateway Trail system. The Dixie Mine tr leads to the site of an abandon mine and also joins trails that lead to the Bell Pass (Lost Dog area) and also into the community of Fountain Hills.<br />
These trails are all well signed however it is advisable to pick up a free map at the Visitors Center for all the side trails but the Pemberton Loop itself is easily done without a map. <br />
If you happen to run across horse crap on the trails we cant really blame the equestrian folks as there are about a dozen wild horses roaming the park here too. They are friendly and sometimes approachable but I don't think we are going to potty train them any time soon.<br />
From the 101 in Scottsdale head east on Shae blvd aprox 8 miles to N Fountain Hills blvd. Follow that through town and it turns into McDowell Mtn rd. 4 miles from town turn left into park, there is a couple bucks admission fee. Drive 3 miles into park and take a right just after the visitor center to trailhead parking. <br /><br />
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