The best road cycling routes around Scottsdale

Scottsdale offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, from flat, well-paved paths through lush urban greenbelts to more undulating routes with elevation changes in the rugged Sonoran Desert. You'll find options catering to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and challenging rides, often with stunning views of the McDowell Mountains and iconic saguaro cacti.

Yes, Scottsdale has several easy and beginner-friendly options. The Paradise Valley Loop via Sun Circle Trail is an easy 22.8-mile path offering scenic views. Additionally, sections of the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt provide a broad, flat, and well-paved multi-use path, perfect for a relaxed ride through urban oases.

For a more challenging experience, consider routes that venture into the McDowell Mountains. The McDowell Mountain loop is a moderate 49.1-mile route with significant elevation gain, offering expansive Sonoran Desert views and sustained climbs. Other challenging options include routes extending towards Usery Pass or those incorporating the Loop 101 and Beeline Highway for sustained climbs.

Scottsdale enjoys over 300 days of sunshine, making it suitable for cycling year-round. Fall, winter, and early spring offer mild conditions perfect for cycling. While summers can be hot, early morning rides are comfortable and popular among local cyclists.

The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is an excellent choice for families. This multi-use path is broad, flat, and well-paved, spanning nearly 13 miles through the heart of Scottsdale with numerous underpasses and bridge crossings for uninterrupted travel. It connects several parks and offers a safe, enjoyable environment for all ages.

Scottsdale's routes offer striking contrasts. You'll experience the iconic Sonoran Desert with its saguaro cacti, mesquite, and palo verde trees, and unique rock formations. Many routes provide stunning backdrops of the McDowell Mountains and dramatic views of Camelback Mountain. The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt offers a refreshing change with lush greenery, ponds, and fountains.

Yes, several popular routes are loops. The McDowell Mountain loop is a well-known 49.1-mile option. Another is the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt loop, which can extend up to 51.9 miles through urban oases. The Paradise Valley Loop via Sun Circle Trail also provides a circular route.

Many routes offer views of prominent natural landmarks. You might see the distinctive red rock formations of Papago Park Red Rock Formations, the majestic Camelback Mountain, or the rugged Tom's Thumb in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The Sonoran Desert itself, with its unique flora and fauna, is a natural spectacle.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Scottsdale, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from the extensive multi-use paths like the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt to the challenging climbs and expansive desert views offered by routes around the McDowell Mountains. The year-round sunshine and well-maintained bikeways are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Scottsdale integrates art and culture into some cycling experiences. Routes like the Mountain Vista Bike Tour incorporate prominent art installations. The city also hosts 'Cycle the Arts' events, highlighting public art along an 11-mile route. The Arizona Canal Trail, for instance, offers access to Old Town Scottsdale's shops, cafes, and numerous public art installations.

Scottsdale is recognized as a gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community with over 200 miles of bikeways and more than 400 miles of interconnected bike trails. For detailed information on the city's extensive network of paths and trails, you can visit the official Scottsdale city website: scottsdaleaz.gov/outdoor-activities/paths-trails.