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22 December 2021
Arizona is home to breathtaking landscapes, varied terrain, and a plethora of undiscovered regions to explore—it’s no secret why it’s a paradise for mountain bikers! Seasoned bikers can enjoy the challenges of rough and technical terrain while beginners can practice in easy trails while enjoying the scenery.
There are countless trails in AZ, but these are the ones you shouldn’t miss out on:
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1. Hangover Trail, Sedona. The Hangover Trail Out-and-Back is an out-and-back trail located near Sedona, Arizona that features beautiful wildflowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, mountain biking, and off-road driving, and is accessible throughout the year. Dogs are also permitted on this trail but must be on a leash.
2. Black Canyon Trail, Phoenix. The Black Canyon Trail is a diverse 80-mile point-to-point trail located near Black Canyon City, Arizona that will leave you gasping for air from the thrill of going through varied terrain and tight switchbacks as well as the breathtaking views of Prescott Valley. It is rated as moderate. The trail is mostly used for camping, nature trips, and mountain biking.
3. Slim Shady Trail, Sedona. This trail is a haven for beginner mountain bikers. It is a short 2.5-mile trail with red dirt terrain and short yet exhausting climbs. Slim Shady and Made in the Shade Loop Trail is a moderately trafficked, 2.3 mile loop trail located near Sedona, Arizona with beautiful wildflowers. From August until April, the trail is best used for hiking, running, and mountain biking. The trail is also open to dogs on a leash.
4. 50-Year Trail, Tucson. 50 Year Trail is a 5.9 mile heavily traveled loop trail in Tucson, Arizona with beautiful wildflowers and a moderate difficulty rating. Both beginner and seasoned bikers can enjoy this single-track trail of diverse terrain and rocky climbs. It is accessible all year round and offers a variety of activities. It is also possible to use this trail with dogs, but they must be on a leash.
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5. Shultz Creek, Flagstaff. Take the scenic route of Arizona’s lush green forests and pine trees and ride through the Shultz Creek. It is best to explore in the summer to avoid the snow.
6. Pemberton Loop, Scottsdale. This moderate trail is a 15-mile stretch where the first nine miles involve slow ascends to the mountains and the final miles will have you riding at high speed and going through technical turns.
7. National Trail, Phoenix. If you want to challenge your endurance, climbing skills, and technical abilities, the National Trail is the place to be. It has short punchy climbs and a desert trail with beautiful desert flowers and often you’ll catch a glimpse of some Arizona wildlife. If the National Trail sounds a little too long for you, we recommend the Desert Classic which is another down and back route coined as “The chillest trail in South Mountain.”
No trip to Arizona will be complete without trying your mountain biking skills on at least one of these famous mountain biking trails. Each trail will satisfy your thirst for adventure and your craving for nature.
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