Estrella Competitive Long Loop

The Long Loop is generally considered intermediate (blue), offering a challenging yet accessible ride for most skill levels. While some sections are described as easy and scenic, be prepared for significant elevation gains, loose rocks on descents, and technical features in washes. Combining it with the Technical Loop, however, elevates the overall ride to an expert (black diamond) level, which is not recommended for beginners.

You'll encounter a mix of singletrack and doubletrack, with the "backside of the Estrellas" featuring awesome, twisty singletrack. The terrain is rugged and rocky, with steep climbs, drops, fast corners, and numerous twists. Be aware that some sections, particularly between the Mountain Pass, can have alternating loose rocks and sand, and parts may be washed out with loose gravel and large rocks, making turns challenging. It can be quite bumpy in places.

The Estrella Competitive Long Loop is approximately 17.86 kilometers (11.1 miles) long. On average, riders complete it in about 1 hour and 37 minutes, but this can vary significantly based on your skill level, pace, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The trail is located within Estrella Mountain Regional Park in Goodyear, Arizona. You'll find parking available within the park, typically near the trailheads for the competitive track system. There is a drive-in fee to access the park.

Yes, there is a drive-in fee required to access Estrella Mountain Regional Park, which grants you access to the trails, including the Estrella Competitive Long Loop. It's advisable to check the park's official website for current fee structures before your visit.

While Estrella Mountain Regional Park generally allows dogs, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's condition for all users.

The best time to ride is typically during the cooler months, from fall through spring (October to April), to avoid the extreme heat of the Arizona summer. During these months, the weather is more pleasant for mountain biking. Early mornings are also recommended to beat the heat and enjoy the desert sunrise.

You'll experience classic Arizona desert scenery with expansive views of the surrounding mountains. The trail can feel quite remote, offering a sense of solitude. As the sun sets, you can enjoy picturesque views of the distant city lights. The Long Loop itself is a highlight, providing a quintessential desert mountain biking experience.

Yes, the route intersects with and is part of a larger network. It covers significant portions of the Long Loop (42%, 20%, 19%, 18%, 16%) and also passes through sections of the Maricopa Trail (15%), Estrella Mountain Regional Park (13%), Desert Rose Trail (13%), Junior Loop (12%), Mountain Pass to Long Loop (10%), Connector (Technical to Long Loop) (4%), and the Technical Loop (3%).

The Estrella Competitive Long Loop is part of a dedicated competitive track system, designed in partnership with Phoenix International Raceway. This system is built for high-speed riding, racing events, and overall enjoyment, offering various loop options (Beginner, Junior, Technical, Long Loop Mountain Pass, and the Long Loop) to cater to different skill levels and competitive aspirations.