The best traffic-free bike rides in Pinal County
4.6
(47)
2,596
riders
5
rides
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling in Pinal County, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many routes out there, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want the highlights, not the guesswork.
That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed countless routes across the region, allowing us to cut through the noise. This guide is your curated shortlist, designed to save you the endless scrolling and point you straight to the rides that are truly worth your legs.
Road cycling in Pinal County is defined by its unique Sonoran Desert landscape, offering expansive views of saguaro cacti and distant mountain ranges like the Superstitions. You'll find everything from easy, flat spins to more challenging routes with moderate elevation changes, all under the Arizona sun. The warm, sunny climate means you can enjoy these routes year-round, making it a fantastic escape when other regions are too cold.
If you only do one ride, we'd start with the View of Telegraph Pass – South Mountain Preserve loop from Komatke. At 32.7 miles (52.6 km) with 2,227 feet (679 m) of climbing, it's a moderate challenge that delivers big on scenic payoffs. For something a bit more relaxed, the Queen Creek wash trail – Queen Creek Wash Trail loop from Coronado Elementary School is an easy 14.9 miles (24.1 km) ride, perfect for a smooth, traffic-free spin. Ready to explore? Dive into the routes and see why more than 200 road cyclists have already discovered Pinal County with komoot.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
5.0
(3)
98
riders
52.6km
02:34
680m
680m
This road cycling loop through South Mountain Preserve offers a challenging ride with incredible desert vistas. You'll navigate paved roads that climb steadily, passing abundant Saguaro cacti and offering panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area. The route is a moderate 32.7 miles (52.6 km) with a significant 2228 feet (679 metres) of elevation gain, making it a rewarding experience for those who enjoy a good workout.
Plan your ride between October and April to avoid the intense summer heat, as water sources are scarce on the mountain. Be aware that the roads are shared with cars, so stay alert, especially on blind corners. The 2 hours and 33 minutes estimated duration means you can fit this substantial ride into a morning or afternoon.
Beyond the physical challenge, this route offers a glimpse into the region's history, with ancient Hohokam Petroglyphs accessible early on some trails. The radio towers at the summit are a visible landmark from across Phoenix, guiding your ascent. This loop is a great way to experience the unique desert landscape and challenging climbs that make South Mountain Park and Preserve popular cycling trails.
21
riders
The Queen Creek Wash Trail loop offers a delightful road cycling experience, guiding you through a varied landscape of open desert, agricultural fields, and community spaces. You'll enjoy smooth asphalt under your tires, with the added bonus of scenic views of the San Tan and Superstition Mountains in the distance. The route's unique underpasses beneath major roads ensure a continuous flow, making it a truly enjoyable and accessible ride.
Starting your adventure from the Coronado Elementary School area, this easy 15.0-mile (24.1 km) loop with only 116 feet (35 metres) of elevation gain is perfect for a quick 58-minute spin. While it's a great option for all fitness levels, be mindful that the trail can get quite busy, especially on weekends. It's also wise to check for local advisories after heavy rains, as some sections might be affected by flooding or debris.
This trail is a fantastic community resource, connecting to various parks like Mansel Carter Oasis Park and Desert Mountain Park, which offer amenities such as restrooms. Beyond the smooth ride, you'll have opportunities to spot desert wildlife, including rabbits and various birds, adding a touch of natural beauty to your journey through Queen Creek, Arizona.
Sign up for free
7
riders
16.5km
01:20
10m
10m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
6
riders
The Queen Creek Wash Trail loop offers a smooth, easy road cycling experience through Queen Creek's diverse landscape. You'll glide along paved asphalt, enjoying views of the desert and distant San Tan and Superstition Mountains, with sections that are tree-lined as they follow Queen Creek. Keep an eye out for local desert wildlife like rabbits and birds as you cycle through open spaces, farmland, and residential communities.
This route is an easy 9.6 miles (15.4 km) with only 65 feet (20 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 39 minutes to complete, making it ideal for beginner cyclists or a relaxed ride. You'll find convenient access points with parking and restrooms at Mansel Carter Oasis Park and Desert Mountain Park. The trail's underpasses are a notable feature, allowing for an uninterrupted riding experience without needing to stop for road crossings.
The Queen Creek Wash Trail is part of an expanding network that connects with other multi-use paths like the Sonoqui Wash Trail, offering potential for longer rides. The trail system is continually being extended, with the long-term goal of creating a complete loop around the area. Its well-maintained, paved surface and minimal difficulty make it a popular choice for family-friendly bike rides in Queen Creek.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Pinal County
Traffic-free bike rides in San Tan Mountain Regional Park
Grand Enchantment Trail — Slot canyons, spruce peaks & desert solitude
Arizona Trail — A beautiful 800-mile struggle
Bikepack in America's southwest – deserts, cacti and Anasazi culture
The Arizona Trail — From Mexico to Utah in 43 days
Traffic-free bike rides in Pinal County
Traffic-free bike rides in Pinal County
Other adventures in Pinal County
Tips from the Community
Sun Circle Trail is a paved multi-use path that goes parallel to the Arizona Canal, Southern Canal and Consolidated Canal, connecting the cities of the Phoenix urban area. The entire loop trail has 300 miles, passing by several parks and preserved open areas.
0
0
Summit Road travels through the heart of the South Mountain Preserve. It passes a number of overlooks, lots of trailheads, and even a couple restrooms, parking lots, and water fountains. The road is entirely paved and gets steep and twisty in spots.
0
0
The views from this winding road that travels through the South Mountain Preserve are fantastic, looking down to the plains below. South Mountain Preserve stands as one of North America's most extensive urban parks, encompassing over 16,000 acres, making it the largest in the United States. Recognized as a Phoenix Point of Pride, this expansive preserve offers a remarkable natural space for locals and visitors to enjoy.
0
0
San Juan Lookout is the highest point in the South Mountain Preserve. It is found at the most western point of the preserve, and getting here by bike is a good ride.
0
0
Dobbins Lookout offers fantastic views of Phoenix. Many visitors come in the evening to watch the sunset over the city.
0
0
South Mountain Preserve is one of the largest urban parks in North America and is the largest in the United States at more than 16,000 acres. It is designated as a Phoenix Point of Pride.
0
0
Enjoy this climb up to this South Mountain Peak! Stay hydrated and consider riding up during the cooler hours of the day. The mountain has an elevation of about 2710 feet. The road is smooth and though it's challenging to ride up the last .5 mile at 15% grade, it makes for a fun ride down.
0
0
This lookout building was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's as a watchtower platform. From this point you'll enjoy clear views of Phoenix and surrounding cities. Make sure to take advantage of the informative plaque, which points out the various nearby landmarks for an enriching experience.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Pinal County?
Komoot offers nearly a dozen dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in Pinal County, providing a peaceful way to explore the Sonoran Desert. These routes are designed to keep you away from vehicular traffic, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive cycling experience.
What is the best time of year for traffic-free road biking in Pinal County?
Pinal County boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it suitable for cycling year-round. However, the cooler months from late fall through spring (October to April) are generally ideal for traffic-free road biking, offering pleasant temperatures for exploring the desert landscapes without the intense summer heat.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, Pinal County offers several easy, no-traffic road cycling routes perfect for families or those seeking a relaxed ride. For instance, the Queen Creek Wash Trail loop from Queen Creek is an easy option, covering 16.7 km with minimal elevation gain, making it very accessible.
What kind of scenery can I expect on these routes?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in Pinal County showcase the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape, characterized by saguaro cacti and views of various mountain ranges like the Superstition Mountains. You'll experience diverse desert and agricultural areas, often with clear views of peaks like Agency Peak and Hayden Peak.
Are there any loop routes for no-traffic road cycling?
Yes, many of the no-traffic routes in Pinal County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the El Rio Preserve loop from Marana, which offers a 44 km easy ride through scenic areas.
What do other cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Pinal County?
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Pinal County, with an average score of 3.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the no-traffic routes, the beautiful desert scenery, and the opportunity to enjoy long, uninterrupted rides under the Arizona sun.
Are there any notable natural attractions or landmarks near these routes?
Pinal County is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. While cycling, you might be near iconic landmarks such as Picacho Peak State Park, known for its distinctive peak, or the Saguaro Cactus, a symbol of the Sonoran Desert. The region also features several wilderness areas and national monuments.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Parking availability varies by route. Many routes, especially those starting from parks or recreation centers, offer designated parking areas. For example, routes like the Cañada del Oro River Trail loop from Catalina Vista Recreation Center typically have facilities for parking at the starting point.
Are there any challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?
While many routes are easy to moderate, some offer longer distances and more varied terrain for experienced riders. For instance, the Cañada del Oro River Trail loop from Vistoso is a moderate 33.8 km ride with some elevation gain, providing a good workout while remaining traffic-free.
What kind of cycling infrastructure is available in Pinal County?
Pinal County is actively developing its cycling infrastructure, managing approximately 60 miles of regional non-motorized multi-use trails. There are also plans to connect to Tucson's well-known Chuck Huckelberry Loop, further expanding safe cycling options. Local bike shops, like Round Trip Bike Shop in Casa Grande, also support the cycling community with events and route planning.
Can I find cafes or amenities near the no-traffic road cycling trails?
While many of these routes offer a sense of remoteness, some pass near towns or communities where you can find amenities. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details before you go to plan for water, snacks, or cafe stops, especially on longer rides through the desert.
Most popular routes in Pinal County
Most popular attractions in Pinal County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Road cycling routes throughout Pinal County below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
