The Phoenix area is peppered with mountain bike trails. Even in the middle of the city, it’s possible to get away from it all on a twisting, rocky trail. Here are four popular spots for mountain bikers of all levels of ability.
Papago Park
People flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport get a great view of Papago Park, which straddles the borders of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe. Its multi-use trails range from smooth, gently curved singletrack in the northern portions, to rough and rocky as you go further south. It’s a popular spot for new riders to learn the off-road ropes, while veteran riders visit for convenience more than challenge. The city of Phoenix has a quality online guide and map for figuring out where to park. Parking and using the trails are both free – a bargain considering the restrooms and water fountains.
Pima & Dynamite Singletrack
North Scottsdale is mostly known for a wanna-be Beverly Hills vibe. But it also has quality mountain bike trails. Start by parking near the northeast corner of Pima Road and Dynamite Boulevard; then pick just about any trail and ride northeast. You can put together a quick 30-minute ride, or an all-day epic. A map by mountain biker Dale Wiggins give a glimpse of the possibilities. The trails get more rough and wild the further north you go. Watch for off-road motorcycles and wildlife in addition to your singletrack thrills. Parking and use are free, but you’re technically supposed to have a State Trust Land permit. You won’t find water fountains or bathrooms.
Trail 100
Trail 100 stretches through the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The easiest place to park is at the trailhead on Northern Avenue – just exit the SR 51 freeway on Northern, head east and you’ll find the trailhead. A tunnel under the freeway keeps to major parts of the park connected. The east side features numerous side trails. The west side is predominantly Trail 100, with fewer offshoots. Both sides are rocky – and they require stamina and skill. But you’ll have a great time if you’re up to the challenge. Watch for lots of runners, hikers, equestrians and other riders on weekends. The city of Phoenix is considering a $2 user fee for parking at some trailheads, but there is currently no use or parking fee. Restrooms and water fountains are scattered throughout, mostly on the east side.
McDowell Mountain Regional Park
There’s just way too much mountain bike fun at McDowell Mountain Regional Park north of Fountain Hills. There’s the 16-mile Pemberton Trail, which gets even longer with its numerous offshoots like the Coachwhip and Dixie Mine trails. There’s the high-speed, go-fast-or-don’t-start Competitive Loops. Then there’s the Pump Track for building your skills. Each one individually: Put them together, and you have a major mountain bike destination. Visitors will also love clean restrooms at the trailheads – and the vending machine at Pemberton (there’s nothing like some sugar to recover from a ride). Park entry fee is $6.
