Paloma Community Park to Lake Pleasant

The overall route is rated as difficult for touring bicycles. However, the difficulty varies by section. The New River Trail portion is generally easy due to its paved, flat surface. Cycling on Lake Pleasant Parkway is moderately difficult, involving sharing the road with traffic and gradual inclines as you head north towards the lake. The mountain biking trails within Lake Pleasant Regional Park are typically intermediate to difficult and not recommended for touring bicycles.

The route primarily features paved surfaces. A significant portion follows the New River Trail, which is a well-maintained, mostly level multi-use path. As you approach Lake Pleasant, the route transitions to Lake Pleasant Parkway, a paved road that includes new bike lanes. Expect gradual inclines when heading north towards the lake.

You'll experience a diverse landscape, starting with the amenities of Paloma Community Park. As you progress, especially along the New River Trail, you'll cycle through the beautiful Sonoran Desert environment. Near Lake Pleasant, the scenery includes rugged canyons, desert vistas, and views of the lake itself. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as wild burros.

Key highlights include the View of the New Waddell Dam as you approach Lake Pleasant. You'll also pass by the Lakeview Day Use Area and the Little Road Runner Beach, offering scenic spots near the lake.

You can park at Paloma Community Park in Peoria, Arizona. The park offers various amenities and serves as an excellent starting point for this journey.

While cycling on the New River Trail and Lake Pleasant Parkway typically doesn't require permits, entering Lake Pleasant Regional Park itself does usually incur an entrance fee. It's advisable to check the official Maricopa County Parks and Recreation website for current fee schedules and regulations before your visit.

Generally, multi-use paths like the New River Trail are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Within Lake Pleasant Regional Park, dogs are usually permitted on trails and in day-use areas but must be leashed. Always ensure you clean up after your pet. Check specific park regulations for any restricted areas.

The best time to cycle this route is during the cooler months, from fall through spring (October to April). Summers in Arizona can be extremely hot, making cycling challenging and potentially unsafe due to high temperatures. Spring offers pleasant weather and blooming desert flora.

Yes, a significant portion of this route utilizes the New River Trail, which is part of a larger network of dedicated bike paths in the Phoenix metropolitan area. You may also encounter sections of the Maricopa Trail and, within Lake Pleasant Regional Park, trails like Wild Burro Trail and Pipeline Canyon Trail, though these are primarily for mountain biking.

This route is primarily designed as an out-and-back journey. While you cycle north towards Lake Pleasant, you'll experience gradual inclines. The return journey south will offer more descents, making for a different experience on the way back.

Paloma Community Park, your starting point, offers various amenities. As you approach Lake Pleasant, the Lakeview Day Use Area provides facilities. Within Lake Pleasant Regional Park, you'll find restrooms, picnic areas, and potentially concession stands, especially near popular recreational spots. It's always wise to carry sufficient water and snacks, as services can be spread out.