Explorer Trail – Rock Wren Trail loop from Mission Harbor
Explorer Trail – Rock Wren Trail loop from Mission Harbor
3.3
(19)
38
riders
Explorer Trail – Rock Wren Trail loop from Mission Harbor
03:04
34.9km
470m
Mountain biking
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Tips
Includes a very steep uphill segment
You may need to push your bike.
After 15.0 km for 230 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
1.73 km
Explorer Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
11.4 km
Sarasota Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
15.7 km
Yetman Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
19.0 km
Rock Wren Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
27.0 km
360 Vista Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
34.9 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
20.2 km
8.60 km
3.34 km
1.36 km
1.01 km
372 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
14.5 km
14.5 km
2.40 km
1.82 km
1.60 km
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Elevation
Highest point (900 m)
Lowest point (740 m)
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Weather
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Thursday 9 July
43°C
27°C
-- %
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're seeking a truly challenging desert mountain biking experience, the Explorer Trail – Rock Wren Trail loop from Mission Harbor delivers. This difficult 21.7-mile (34.9 km) route packs in 1549 feet (472 metres) of climbing over roughly 3 hours and 3 minutes, making it a serious test for intermediate to advanced riders looking to refine their technical skills.
What to expect on Explorer Trail – Rock Wren Trail loop from Mission Harbor
The ride takes you deep into the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape of Tucson Mountain Park, offering panoramic views overlooking the Yetman Valley. You'll navigate a mix of rocky singletrack, occasional sandy washes, and challenging switchbacks. Be prepared for some steep pitches, especially on the Explorer Trail section, where you might even find yourself hike-a-biking uphill. The Rock Wren Trail offers a more flowing, semi-technical mile of riding, but overall, this loop is a great testing ground for intermediate to advanced riders who enjoy technical challenges and craggy drops.
Planning your visit
While specific parking details for 'Mission Harbor' aren't provided, this loop is part of the extensive Starr Pass trail system within Tucson Mountain Park. Given the desert environment, always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The best time to mountain bike in this region is typically during the cooler seasons, from fall through spring, to avoid extreme summer heat.
Trail details
- Distance: 21.7 miles (34.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 1549 feet (472 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 3 minutes
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