With a maze of mountain trails in scenic desert country, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is one of the best places for biking in Scottsdale. Mountain bikers can venture into the rocky climbs and rugged terrain of the surrounding Sonoran Desert, but Scottsdale also has a number of fantastic cycling and road biking trails to explore right within the city. Here are five of the best trails for biking in Scottsdale.
Brown’s Ranch Trailhead
With over 120 miles of trails, the pristine desert landscape of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is perfect for beginner mountain bikers. The Brown’s Ranch Trailhead takes you through mellow climbs and gentle descents splashed with vibrant wildflowers and saguaro jutting out from the ground. Work up a sweat while you take in the inspiring desert scenery.
Useful Links for Biking in Scottsdale!
Granite Mountain Trail
The incredible granite rock formations and panoramic mountain views make the Granite Mountain Trail another beginner favorite. This is one of the best Scottsdale bike trails. Giant saguaro and spindly desert ocotillo plants color the scene, but you might find your eyes perpetually drawn to the breathtaking views of the Mazatzal Mountains and Arizona’s iconic Four Peaks.
Gateway Trailhead
Looking for more of a challenge? The Gateway Trailhead at the base of the McDowell Mountains offers 3.6 miles of steady, rocky climbs and exhilarating descents perfect for advanced mountain bikers. Surrounded in the towering McDowell Mountains, the views are unparalleled.
National Loop
Just half an hour away from Scottsdale lies South Mountain Park and Preserve in Phoenix. This 16,000 acre park has more than 51 miles of trails to explore, including the popular National Loop. This mountain biking trail is considered the ultimate challenge in the area, topping the bucket lists of advanced, technical riders. A shuttle is available to take you to the top, where you can hit all the trail’s highlights as you descend over 6 miles of rocky terrain.
Mountain Vista Route Offers Great Biking in Scottsdale
For more casual biking in Scottsdale, the area offers a sensational network of trails and greenbelts connecting its parks. The Mountain Vista Route is one of the city’s most recent additions, a self-guided, 2.3-mile bike tour beginning at Main Street and ending at Brown Avenue. The route highlights incredible views of the McDowell Mountains and Camelback Mountain framed by interpretive panels, telling stories of the mountains on display.
