The best road cycling routes in Superstition Wilderness

There are over 5 road cycling routes available in the Superstition Wilderness area, offering a range of experiences from easy to difficult.

Road cycling in the Superstition Wilderness offers dramatic desert landscapes with jagged peaks, canyons, and diverse vegetation, including abundant saguaro cacti. You'll encounter prominent rock formations and scenic paved roads like the Apache Trail (State Route 88), which winds through incredible desert scenery.

Yes, there is at least one easy road cycling route. For instance, the Goldfield Ghost Town and Lost Dutchman State Park via the Apache Trail loop is a 20.5-mile (33.0 km) trail that takes you through historical sites and a state park, making it a great option for a more relaxed ride.

While cycling the paved roads around the Superstition Wilderness, you can encounter several distinctive features. The Prospector‘s view offers scenic vistas. You might also spot unique rock formations like the Praying Hands Rock Formation. The Apache Trail itself is a historic scenic drive, and routes can take you near Hieroglyphic Trail #101, known for ancient petroglyphs.

The best time for road cycling in the Superstition Wilderness is generally during the cooler months, from late fall through spring (October to April). During these seasons, temperatures are more moderate, making for a more comfortable ride. Spring also brings colorful desert wildflowers after rainy winters.

Yes, there are routes that offer a significant challenge for experienced riders. For example, the Superior to Gila River via Arizona Highway 177 route is classified as difficult, featuring over 1000 meters of elevation gain over 56.6 km.

Many of the road cycling routes in the Superstition Wilderness are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Boulder Creek Bridge – View of Rock Pinnacle loop from Tortilla Flat and the View of Rock Pinnacle – Boulder Creek Bridge loop from Crosscut Trail Head.

Elevation gains on road cycling routes in the Superstition Wilderness vary. Easy routes, like the Goldfield Ghost Town loop, might have around 150 meters of ascent. Moderate routes, such as the Boulder Creek Bridge loops, typically feature 600-630 meters of elevation gain, while difficult routes can exceed 1000 meters.

While specific parking locations for each route are not detailed, many road cycling routes in the Superstition Wilderness area start from towns like Apache Junction or near popular access points such as Lost Dutchman State Park. These areas typically offer designated parking facilities for visitors.

The Superstition Wilderness is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the dramatic desert landscapes, the prominent rock formations, and the scenic paved roads like the Apache Trail that allow for exploration of this unique region.

While the immediate wilderness area is remote, routes often pass through or near small communities and attractions. For instance, the Goldfield Ghost Town and Lost Dutchman State Park via the Apache Trail loop passes by Goldfield Ghost Town, which offers amenities. Tortilla Flat, a small community on the Apache Trail, is another potential stop for refreshments.

Yes, it's important to note that traditional bicycles are prohibited on trails within the federally designated Superstition Wilderness Area itself. However, road cyclists can enjoy the dramatic scenery by riding on the paved routes that traverse the periphery or lead into the region, such as the Apache Trail (State Route 88).