The best road cycling routes around Phoenix

Phoenix offers a wide variety of road cycling routes. On komoot, you'll find over 10 routes, including 9 easy, 4 moderate, and 1 difficult route, catering to different skill levels and preferences.

For an easy and enjoyable ride, consider the Thorn Creek Trail, which is 27.2 miles (43.8 km) with minimal elevation gain. The extensive canal systems, such as the Arizona Canal Path and Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, also provide flat, paved paths ideal for leisurely rides through varying desert scenery.

Yes, Phoenix offers several challenging options. The Saganashkee Slough – Centennial Trail loop from Midlothian is a difficult 89.5 miles (144.0 km) route with significant elevation. For those seeking steep climbs, areas like Camelback Mountain (56th Street, Cholla Lane) and the Summit Road in South Mountain Park offer demanding gradients and rewarding views.

Road cycling in Phoenix immerses you in the unique Sonoran Desert landscape. You'll encounter iconic saguaro cacti, palo verde trees, and rugged mountains. Routes often feature striking red buttes, rock formations, and extensive canal systems. The Salt River and Verde River valleys also offer contrasting green riparian corridors amidst the arid desert.

Many road cycling routes in Phoenix are designed as loops for convenience. A popular moderate option is the Old Plank Road, Cal-Sag & Centennial Trail Loop, covering 69.3 miles (111.5 km). Another is the Sauk Trail Forest Preserve – Glenwood Woods loop from Homewood, a moderate 50.8 km ride.

For breathtaking panoramic city views, the Summit Road in South Mountain Park is a must-ride, culminating at Gila Valley Lookout. Papago Park offers distinctive red sandstone buttes, including the famous Hole-in-the-Rock. The Tortilla Flat Road Bike Route near the Superstition Mountains also provides stunning vistas and passes Canyon Lake.

The road cycling routes around Phoenix are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from flat canal paths to challenging mountain ascents, and the unique Sonoran Desert scenery that makes each ride memorable.

Yes, Phoenix has several family-friendly options. The flat, paved multi-use paths along the extensive canal systems, such as the Arizona Canal Path, are excellent for families. The Skip Rimsza Paseo in the Phoenix Sonoran Preserve also offers a gentle five-mile ride through desert hills, suitable for various ages.

Phoenix is favorable for cycling year-round due to its abundant sunshine. However, the cooler months from late fall to early spring (October to April) are generally preferred for comfortable riding, avoiding the intense summer heat. Wildflowers often bloom vibrantly in March and April, adding to the scenic beauty.

Absolutely! Near the cycling routes, you can explore the Illinois Pennsy Greenway or the Major Taylor Trail. Papago Park is adjacent to the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo. You might also encounter unique structures like the Cal-Sag Channel SEPA Station 3 Cascades or the Major Taylor Trail Bridge.

Many of Phoenix's larger parks and preserves, such as South Mountain Park, Papago Park, and the Phoenix Sonoran Preserve, offer designated parking areas at trailheads. For canal paths, you can often find parking in nearby public lots or residential streets, but it's always good to check specific access points beforehand.

Yes, you can find routes that take you through or near forest preserves. For example, the Thorn Creek Red Paved Trail – Glenwood Woods loop from Lansing offers a ride through a wooded area. The Mountain Preserves in north Phoenix, like North Mountain Preserve, also feature trails and roads that provide a different cycling experience.