The best road cycling routes around Rio Rico

Tumacácori National Historical Park, located in southern Arizona, preserves the ruins of three Spanish colonial missions: Tumacácori, Guevavi, and Calabazas. Established in 1908, the park covers 360 acres and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the O'odham, Yaqui, and Apache people, alongside Spanish colonists. Visitors can explore the well-preserved mission buildings, a visitor center with a museum, and a historic orchard. The park offers guided tours, educational programs, and a variety of special events throughout the year, providing a comprehensive understanding of the area's historical and cultural significance.

Mission San José de Tumacácori, founded by Jesuit Father Eusebio Francisco Kino in January 1691, was originally established as Mission San Cayetano del Tumacácori on the east side of the Santa Cruz River. Like most of these remote missions in the 15th century, they were remote and by necessity self-sufficient; the mission was surrounded by irrigated agricultural land and a village of indigenous people who converted to Christianity. After an O'odham rebellion in 1751, the mission was relocated and renamed on the west side of the river. In 1768 all Jesuits, the religious order who founded the mission, were expelled from Mexico and it was taken over by Franciscans. The mission was officially abandoned in 1843 and incorporated into Tumacácori National Historical Park in 1908.

Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi, established in 1691 by Jesuit Fathers Kino and Salvatierra, was one of the earliest Spanish missions in Arizona. It served as a district headquarters from 1701, with Father Juan de San Martin as the first resident priest. Over the years, the priests and residents faced hardships like disease, Apache raids, and the Pima revolt, a well-coordinated attack on Spanish missions and settlements by O'odham rebels in 1751. Despite efforts to sustain the mission, it was eventually abandoned in 1775. Its ruins were incorporated into Tumacácori National Historical Park in 1990, and were donated by Ralph Wingfield and preserved by the Archaeological Conservancy.

Mission San Cayetano de Calabazas was established in 1756 near present-day Tumacácori, Arizona. It was part of a network of Spanish missions in the Sonoran Desert. It was initially founded by Father Francisco Xavier Pauer and played a significant role in the local O'odham community. The mission faced numerous challenges, including destruction during the O'odham rebellion and Apache raids, leading to its eventual abandonment in 1786. Later, it served various purposes, such as a military post and a customs house. In 1990, it became part of Tumacácori National Historical Park and was designated a National Historic Landmark.

This section of the Ruby-Nogales Road, or Ruby Road, up to Peña Blanca Lake and the Upper Thumb Rock Picnic Area is paved. You get nice views as you ride of the rocky mountains and hills, and numerous dirt and gravel roads that wind through them. After the lake, it quickly turns into adventurous, remote gravel riding as you head up toward the town of Ruby, a historic ghost town.

Nogales, Arizona, is a city in Santa Cruz County located directly on the U.S.-Mexico border. This high desert city, situated at an elevation of approximately 3,865 feet, serves as a crucial border crossing and trade hub. Established in the late 19th century, Nogales' growth accelerated with the arrival of the railroad in the 1880s. This connection fostered its development as a key point for U.S.-Mexico trade, particularly in fresh produce and cross-border manufacturing. Culturally, Nogales reflects its deep ties with Mexico. The city's rich cultural heritage is celebrated through various events and historic sites, such as the Old Courthouse and downtown's historic buildings.

Peña Blanca Lake and Upper Thumb Rock Picnic Area is just northwest of Nogales, a town right on the US-Mexico border. This is a truly stunning spot to ride to that is relatively close to town. If you wish for a more challenging ride on difficult and remote - but beautiful - gravel roads, you can continue west past here and head up to the Ruby ghost town.

Patagonia Lake State Park is located in southern Arizona near the town of Patagonia. The park is somewhat of an oasis in the desert; it is known for its lush riparian environment and abundant wildlife. Established in 1975, the park spans 2,658 acres and centers around a 265-acre man-made lake created by damming Sonoita Creek. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and camping. Campers can choose from 105 developed campsites, some with electric hookups, and two boat-in campsites, all equipped with restrooms and showers. The park also features a visitor center, a marina with boat rentals, and a beach for swimming.