The best road cycling routes in Pima County

Pima County offers a diverse range of road cycling terrain. You'll find routes through the iconic Sonoran Desert, featuring saguaro cacti and rolling hills, as well as challenging mountain ascents in the Santa Catalina Mountains, including the famous Mount Lemmon. There are also extensive paved, car-free paths like The Chuck Huckelberry Loop, providing flatter options.

Yes, Pima County has many options for less experienced riders and families. The region features over 130 easy routes. A great choice is the extensive Chuck Huckelberry Loop, which is a car-free network of paths ideal for a relaxed ride. For a specific komoot route, consider the Rillito River Path – Rillito River Path loop from University of Arizona, which is an easy 26.7-mile (43 km) ride.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the ascents in the Santa Catalina Mountains are highly recommended. The Brett’s Mt. Lemmon Climb – Babad Do'ag Viewpoint loop from Colonia Tanque Verde is a difficult 48.6-mile (78.2 km) route with over 5,900 feet (1800 m) of climbing, taking you from the desert floor to alpine environments. This climb is often used by professional cyclists for training.

Pima County's routes offer stunning natural beauty. You'll encounter the unique saguaro cacti of the Sonoran Desert, especially within Saguaro National Park. Mountain routes provide breathtaking views, such as those from Brett’s Mt. Lemmon Climb or Finger Rock Trailhead. You might also spot hoodoo rock formations along the Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway. For water features, consider highlights like Maiden Pools or Sabino Lake.

Pima County generally offers year-round cycling due to its favorable climate. However, the cooler months from fall through spring (October to April) are often preferred, especially for desert routes, to avoid the intense summer heat. Mountain routes like Mount Lemmon can be enjoyed in warmer months, offering a significant temperature drop at higher elevations.

Yes, Pima County has numerous loop routes, many of which are quite extensive. The Pantano River Park – Garden of Gethsemane Park loop from Education Center Parking is a moderate 59.6-mile (96 km) route. The Chuck Huckelberry Loop itself is over 100 miles long, allowing for various loop configurations through Tucson and surrounding areas.

Many routes in Pima County offer convenient parking. For routes along the river paths, you can often find parking at designated trailheads or parks. For example, the Pantano River Park – Garden of Gethsemane Park loop starts from Education Center Parking. For mountain routes, specific parking areas are available along the scenic byways.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from nearly 300 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from the unique Sonoran Desert landscape to the challenging mountain climbs, and the extensive network of well-maintained paved paths like The Chuck Huckelberry Loop.

Yes, the most prominent car-free option is The Chuck Huckelberry Loop. This extensive network of shared-use paths covers over 100 miles, winding through Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, and other parts of Pima County, providing a safe and enjoyable experience away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, Saguaro National Park offers excellent road cycling opportunities. In the Rincon Mountain District (east), the Cactus Forest Loop is an 8-mile paved loop with rolling hills. For more information on cycling within the park, you can visit the National Park Service website.

Pima County boasts a vast network of road cycling routes, with nearly 300 tours available on komoot. These routes cater to all skill levels, from easy scenic rides to difficult mountain ascents.

Many routes along the river paths, such as the Garden of Gethsemane Park – Tucson Greeting Card Mural loop from Tucson, provide views that blend the desert landscape with urban areas of Tucson. The Chuck Huckelberry Loop also traverses through various parts of the metropolitan area, offering diverse perspectives.