The Road To Nowhere (Sun Valley Parkway)

The full route, covering approximately 117 kilometers (72 miles), typically takes around 4.5 hours to complete for a racebike cyclist. Shorter rides are also possible depending on your starting point and desired distance.

The Road To Nowhere is generally classified as a moderate road ride, suitable for cyclists with good fitness. While shorter rides can be considered easy, longer excursions, especially those that might include unpaved sections, can be very demanding and require good fitness. The route features rolling hills and a total elevation gain of about 272 meters (892 feet).

The trail is a long stretch of highway, so parking access points can vary. Given its remote nature, riders often park at an accessible point near Buckeye, Arizona, and begin their ride from there. There are no designated trailheads with specific parking lots mentioned for this route, so look for safe roadside parking or consider starting from a nearby community with public parking options.

You can expect a well-paved, four-lane highway with wide shoulders, providing ample space for cycling. The route traverses the rugged Sonoran Desert, offering vast, open desert vistas without commercial interruptions. It's known for its remote nature and the feeling of being truly 'out here,' with minimal traffic and uninterrupted stretches of road.

The best time to cycle this route is typically during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring (October to April), to avoid the extreme heat of the Arizona summer. During these months, temperatures are more pleasant for long-distance cycling. Always check weather conditions before you go.

No, due to its remote nature and 'Road To Nowhere' status, there are no services, water sources, or resting spots directly along the route. Riders must be entirely self-sufficient, carrying ample water, snacks, and any necessary supplies for the duration of their ride.

Yes, while primarily a road cycling route, sections of the path briefly intersect with parts of the Maricopa Trail. It also crosses various local roads and service roads such as Roosevelt Avenue and the Roosevelt Irrigation District Canal Service Road.

This route is a road cycling path, not a traditional hiking trail. While dogs are generally allowed in many outdoor areas, cycling with a dog on a long, remote highway with no services is not recommended due to safety concerns, lack of shade, and extreme temperatures. If you plan to bring a dog, ensure they are secured and that you have ample water for them.

No specific permits or fees are required to cycle directly on the Sun Valley Parkway itself. However, if you plan to access the route via or extend your ride into nearby regional parks like White Tank Mountain Regional Park, there may be entrance fees or specific regulations for cyclists within the park boundaries. It's always best to check the park's official website for current information.

The primary 'landmark' and highlight of this route is the road itself, known as The Road To Nowhere — Sun Valley Parkway. It offers continuous, expansive views of the rugged Sonoran Desert landscape. The absence of commercial development means the scenery is dominated by natural desert vistas rather than man-made landmarks.

Given the route's remoteness and lack of services, it's crucial to be self-sufficient. You should bring plenty of water (more than you think you'll need), snacks, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), a repair kit for your bike, a first-aid kit, and a fully charged phone. Dress in layers appropriate for desert temperatures, which can fluctuate significantly.