Are you looking for something fun to do in the great outdoors? Look no further! Mountain biking is a great hobby that allows for plenty of exercise, fresh air, and can be enjoyed by just about anyone, no matter your experience level! All you need is some experience and confidence with riding a bicycle, an adventurous spirit, a positive attitude, and you’re ready to go!
When it comes to mountain biking, there are plenty of places where you can find trails. If you’re searching for a place that’s home to trails unlike any other, though, Arizona needs to make it onto your list of future places to travel! Why you ask? Arizona is home to a variety of gorgeous and unique terrain from red cliffs to the rocky desert. Therefore, Arizona mountain bike trails are some that are worth exploring!
Gear up!
Before you hit the trails, be sure you have all of the proper gear and equipment needed to make your ride successful! Head over to our bike shop if you need to replace your mountain bike or any bike parts. Be sure that you also have adequate bike clothing and protective gear so that you can stay comfortable and safe during your adventures, including a durable pair of bike shoes. You’ll also want to be sure that you have a water bottle handy so that you can stay hydrated through all of your activity. If you aren’t ready to invest, consider renting to get a feel for the sport first.
Now that you have all your equipment, let’s get riding on one of these Arizona mountain bike trails!
5 Best Arizona Mountain Bike Trails:
Hangover Trail – Sedona
Difficulty: very hard
Length: 3.2 miles
Route Type: loop
Surface: singletrack
Elevation: +827/1 ft
This is one of the most popular Arizona mountain bike trails but also one of the hardest. It is recommended for only expert-level riders to attempt. Because you’ll be riding close to the cliff’s edge, you’ll want to make sure you’re a confident rider and comfortable with heights before embarking on this trail. You’ll experience some amazing, wide-open views on this trail, though! If you’re ready to take on the challenge, this is one you won’t want to miss!
50 Year Trail / Golder Ranch – Tucson
Difficulty: medium
Length: 19 miles
Route Type: network
Surface: singletrack
Elevation: +581/573 ft
If you’re in the mood for a longer ride, this trail might be a good option for you! It’s perfect for those who are comfortable mountain biking as well as those who have more experience. You can truly make this ride your own depending on which parts of it you want to ride. This trail offers endless possibilities that will have you coming back and wanting to try something new each time. That’s what makes it one of the best Arizona mountain bike trails!
Honeybee Canyon Loop – Oro Valley
Difficulty: easy
Length: 5 miles
Route Type: loop
Surface: singletrack
Elevation: +519/513 ft
This is one of the best Arizona mountain bike trails for beginners! This specific loop takes you through the desert and foothills of the Tortolita Mountains. Most of the trail is flat, making it easy to ride and a great choice for those who are working their way up to something more challenging in the future!
Black Canyon Trail – Phoenix
Difficulty: hard
Length: 62 miles
Route Type: loop
Surface: singletrack
Elevation: +1,350/1 ft
The Black Canyon Trail is one of Phoenix’s finest, making it one of the best Arizona mountain bike trails that’s worth checking out if you’re a more advanced rider! The entire trail is very long, but you can easily choose one section or loop to ride without tackling the whole thing. Pedal through the rugged desert landscape and experience everything that this route has to offer!
Cathedral Rock Trail – Oak Creek
Difficulty: intermediate
Length: 10 miles
Route Type: network
Surface: singletrack
Elevation: +703/557 ft
Experience scenery like no other on the Cathedral Rock Trail! This is another one of the best Arizona mountain bike trails because it offers a little something for everyone, which is why it is rated as intermediate. Whether you’re starting out or you’re experienced, this trail has something for you! It features gorgeous vibrant red earth, rocks, wildflowers, and stunning views.
That does it for our roundup of the 5 best Arizona mountain bike trails! Hopefully, this has inspired you to travel to this gorgeous state and see all that it has to offer! So, what are you waiting for? Grab your mountain bike and get ready to explore some of these amazing trails!
