The best road cycling routes in Arizona

Komoot offers over 850 road cycling routes across Arizona, with 342 easy, 462 moderate, and 47 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for every skill level.

Arizona's diverse topography offers everything from flat desert paths to challenging mountain climbs. You'll find routes through Sonoran Desert vistas, iconic red rock formations, and pine forests. Elevations vary significantly, with some routes featuring sustained climbs like the famous Mount Lemmon, which ascends nearly 8,000 feet.

Arizona offers year-round cycling opportunities. The lower elevations, particularly around Tucson and Phoenix, are ideal during the cooler winter months (October to April). For summer cycling, higher elevation areas like those near Flagstaff or Mount Lemmon provide an escape from the heat, offering cooler temperatures and pine forest scenery.

Absolutely. Arizona is home to several challenging routes. The climb up Mount Lemmon near Tucson is a world-renowned ascent. Other demanding options include Mount Graham near Safford and the Bartlett Reservoir via Bartlett Dam Road route, which features over 1,400 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, there are many accessible routes. The Chuck Huckelberry Loop in Tucson is an extensive system of paved, car-free pathways perfect for leisurely rides. Another easy option is the Paradise Valley Loop via Sun Circle Trail, offering gentle terrain and scenic views.

Arizona's routes are incredibly scenic. You can expect to see iconic saguaro cacti in Saguaro National Park, vibrant red rock formations in Sedona, and breathtaking views along the Grand Canyon Rim. Routes like the McDowell Mountain loop offer desert vistas, while the Canyon Vista Campground to Mormon Lake loop takes you through pine forests with lake views.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Arizona, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the unique desert scenery to the challenging mountain climbs, and the well-maintained routes that cater to all abilities. Over 23,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the region.

Many excellent loop routes are available. Popular choices include the McDowell Mountain loop, the Buena Vista Lookout & Mount Suappoa loop, and the Phoenix Mountains Preserve & Papago Park loop. These routes offer varied distances and elevation profiles, often returning to the starting point.

Beyond the stunning natural landscapes, you can discover various attractions. In the Grand Canyon area, you might encounter highlights like the Bright Angel Trailhead or South Kaibab Trailhead. Other notable natural features include Antelope Canyon and various waterfalls such as Arizona Falls and Seven Falls.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The Chuck Huckelberry Loop in Tucson is particularly family-friendly due to its car-free environment and extensive network. Many of the easier, paved routes found in urban greenbelts or designated bike paths also provide safe and enjoyable experiences for all ages.

While popular areas can see more traffic, some routes offer a quieter experience. Madera Canyon, for instance, is known for its brilliant scenery and minimal traffic, making it a favored warm-up ride or a peaceful alternative to more intense climbs. Exploring routes during off-peak hours or weekdays can also help avoid crowds.

Tucson is a premier cycling hub in Arizona. For additional resources and information specific to road biking in the Tucson area, you can visit the official tourism website: visittucson.org.