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MTB trails
United States
Arizona
Maricopa County

Anthem

The best MTB trails around Anthem

4.2

(51)

437

riders

11

rides

Mountain biking around Anthem features desert landscapes characterized by rolling hills, dry washes, and rocky terrain. The region offers a network of trails that wind through saguaro cacti and native flora, providing a distinct Sonoran Desert riding experience. Elevations are generally moderate, with no peaks exceeding 200 meters, making for accessible yet engaging rides. The area's geology includes ancient volcanic formations and granite outcrops, shaping the varied trail surfaces.

Best mountain bike trails around Anthem

  • The most popular mountain bike…

Last updated: July 1, 2026

5.0

(1)

9

riders

#1.

Badger Sidewinder Ocotillo Loop

30.7km

02:46

400m

400m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.0

(3)

11

riders

15.7km

01:33

320m

310m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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5

riders

9.28km

00:58

220m

220m

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Anthem

Hiking around Anthem

Cycling around Anthem

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Road Cycling Routes around Anthem

Tips from the Community

Sonya Wuepper
October 22, 2025, Go John Trail

Very easy and beautiful trail. Bring plenty of water if it is hot.

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This rugged and quiet area is within the Maricopa County Regional Park System. Here, in addition to enjoying its fun and beautiful trails, you can discover remnants of early mining and ranching occupation and observe diverse flora and wildlife.

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Javi Jaavii
January 14, 2024, Clay Mine

From this point, you can leave the Go John Trail and take the Clay Mine Trail, named after the mine it passes by. In this mine, only clay was found despite being excavated in hopes of finding gold, and a woman named Leila P. Irish decided to bottle the clay from this mine and sell it as a cure-all elixir. It's a multi-use trail, commonly frequented by hikers, runners, and horse riders.

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Andrus
October 19, 2023, Go John Trail

This trail has a bit of everything from flowy downhills, tough climbs, and techy sections (especially around the middle of the loop). It is a multi-use trail so be aware of others when cornering or going downhill. You can also connect to a few other trails and make it a longer ride if you have the time & energy.

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This multi-use trail sees a lot of horse traffic so keep an eye out for both the horses and their droppings. Overall there's a good mix of rock gardens, climbs, and flowy sections. It also connects to a number of other trails so it makes a good starting point for a ride.

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Andrus
October 13, 2023, Sidewinder Trail

Sidewinder Trail is popular with mountain bikers but you will find hikers and runners using it as well. While not too technical, the trail earns an intermediate rating due to the punchy climbs. As with all the trails around Phoenix, shade is hard to find, so be sure to bring plenty of water and take breaks.

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Andrus
October 13, 2023, Apache Wash Trail

This is a good trail for beginners and those looking to hone their skills before tackling more difficult routes. There are just enough rocks, hills, and bumps to keep you on your toes. Just be aware that when you go through the bottom of the washes the sand can get deep and if you're not prepared it might grab your front tire and pull you down. Great views and some good opportunities to spot wildlife too.

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Easy trail with not much elevation gain that is accessed from either Go John or Slate trail, it’s a nice option to hike the ridge and have some amazing views of the area.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there easy or family-friendly mountain bike trails in Anthem?

Yes, Anthem offers several easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners and families. For example, the Go John Trail Loop is an easy 5.8-mile (9.3 km) route that can be completed in under an hour, providing a pleasant ride through desert scrub.

What are the typical lengths of mountain bike trails around Anthem?

Mountain bike trails in Anthem vary in length, catering to different preferences. You can find shorter routes like the Go John Trail Loop at 5.8 miles (9.3 km), or longer, more comprehensive rides such as the Badger Sidewinder Ocotillo Loop, which spans 19.1 miles (30.7 km).

How long do mountain bike rides typically take in Anthem?

Ride durations in Anthem depend on the trail's length and your pace. Shorter, easy trails like the Go John Trail Loop can be completed in about 58 minutes. Moderate routes, such as the Go John Mountain Loop (9.8 miles), typically take around 1 hour 32 minutes, while longer routes can take up to 2 hours 46 minutes or more.

Is there parking available at the trailheads in Anthem?

Yes, some trailheads in Anthem offer dedicated parking. For instance, the Sidewinder Trail loop can be accessed from Bobcat Trailhead Parking, and another route starts from Horse Trailer Parking, indicating facilities for trail users.

Are there challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders in Anthem?

While Anthem's trails are generally characterized by moderate elevations, many routes offer engaging terrain for experienced riders. Trails like the Apache Wash Trail – Sidewinder Trail loop, at over 20 miles with significant elevation changes, provide a good challenge with varied desert singletrack and rocky sections.

When is the best time of year to mountain bike in Anthem?

The Sonoran Desert climate means the best time for mountain biking in Anthem is typically during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring (October to April). Summers can be extremely hot, making rides less comfortable and potentially hazardous due to high temperatures.

What kind of weather should I expect when mountain biking in Anthem?

Anthem experiences a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. Expect clear skies and dry conditions for most of the year. During the cooler months, temperatures are pleasant, but always be prepared for direct sun exposure and carry plenty of water, regardless of the season.

What scenic views can I expect on mountain bike trails in Anthem?

Anthem's mountain bike trails offer classic Sonoran Desert scenery, including expansive views of rolling hills, dry washes, and dense saguaro cacti forests. You can also spot ancient volcanic formations and granite outcrops. The Ridgeback Overlook is a notable viewpoint in the area.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy the most about mountain biking in Anthem?

The komoot community highly rates mountain biking in Anthem, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders often praise the distinct Sonoran Desert riding experience, the well-maintained desert singletrack, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels.

Are there any interesting landmarks or natural attractions along the mountain bike trails in Anthem?

Yes, the trails in Anthem wind through a landscape rich with natural features. You can encounter landmarks like Dixie Mountain and ride along notable paths such as the Apache Wash Trail, Go John Trail, and Sidewinder Trail, which are highlights in themselves.

Are the mountain bike trails in Anthem typically loop routes?

Many of the mountain bike trails around Anthem are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore the area without retracing your steps. Examples include the Badger Sidewinder Ocotillo Loop and the Go John Mountain Loop.

How many mountain bike trails are available in Anthem?

There are over 10 mountain bike trails available around Anthem, offering a range of options from easy to moderate difficulty. This network provides diverse riding experiences through the unique desert landscape.

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