You always want to find new places to ride your mountain bike. Because riding isn’t just about exercise. It’s also about the thrill of the trails and the amazing scenery you take in along the way. Check out the 9 best spots in State 48. From Flagstaff to Tucson, there’s something for everyone!
Pemberton Loop in Scottsdale
This is a singletrack that extends over 15 miles. Minimally technical with no big climbs or descents – great for beginners. There are many places to start. For a shorter trip, you can take the Bluff Trail or Tonto Tank Trail. The desert trail is wide and fast. Super trails will make your ride even longer.
Black Canyon Trail in Phoenix
You can stay close to home for this one. Start at the Table Mesa Trailhead, or the Back Canyon City Trailhead near the Rock Springs I-17 exit. There’s 80 miles of terrain to explore. The singletrack section is for more advanced riders. Some long downhill sections, too. You should carry a map to navigate the many trails off the main route. Also be careful around the cacti.
Sonoran Desert Loop in Cave Creek
This 13.1-mile trail is part of the Phoenix Sonoran Desert Preserve. Start off north at the Apache Wash Trailhead. The trek will be balanced, but not super technical. It’s a multi-use area, so be respectful of hikers and horseback riders.
Hawes Trail Network in Mesa
This is part of the Sonoran Desert Trail System. It’s about 11.2 miles long, mostly singletrack and not too rocky with lot of fun twists and turns. You’ll even pass some abandoned mines. Again, just watch out for cacti. Park near Power and Recker Roads for access.
Hangover Trail in Sedona
Drive two hours north of the valley to take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona. This trail is 3.2 miles long and very intense – only for experienced riders. You’ll ride up to a saddle between two sections of red rocks, then keep going along the narrow edge of a canyon. The last section is on a steep cliff just a few feet above the canyon floor.
Cathedral Rock Big Loop in Oak Creek
Another great Sedona trail for intermediate and advanced cyclists. Start at the Bell Rock Vista trailhead. The loop travels along the Slim Shady Trail and Templeton Trail. The hardest part is the descent from Cathedral Rock. When you’re close to the end, you’ll ride along Oak Creek to the Baldwin Loop, and end up back on Templeton. You might need to hike-a-bike for a few sections depending on your skill level.
Schultz Creek Trail in Flagstaff
Venture north for this popular 4.2-mile ride. You’ll start at the bottom of Schultz Pass Road and bike up the valley on a steady climb. Then you’ll pass Schultz Creek, which runs through pines and fir trees. You can even get a little air on the way back down.
50-Year Trail in Tucson
This is one of the best Southern Arizona trails for all skill levels. It’s around 6 miles long with open landscape and beautiful wild flowers. Start on Oracle across the street from Catalina State Park. Or drive in to the park and leave your car in the equestrian area. The first section is easy flat singletrack. The second section is more technical, and you might have to hike-a-bike.
Honeybee Canyon Loop in Oro Valley
This is also near Tucson. It’s a 16.8-mile easy singletrack trail that requires some endurance. Park along Oracle Road in the gravel and dirt lot. Once the ride starts, you’ll enjoy smooth terrain and minimal uphill sections. When you hit the end of the loop, it’s all downhill fast and smooth.
New Mountain Bikes in Scottsdale, AZ
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