The best traffic-free bike rides in Pima County
4.7
(280)
3,915
riders
91
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Pima County traverse the unique Sonoran Desert landscape, characterized by towering saguaro cacti and diverse river parks. The region features an extensive network of paved, shared-use paths, most notably the Chuck Huckelberry Loop. This infrastructure provides numerous car-free pathways connecting various communities and natural areas. The terrain generally offers a mix of flat river park routes and gently rolling desert paths, with some routes featuring moderate elevation changes.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Pima County
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Bajada Loop Drive, a 6.1 miles (9.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 4 minutes to complete. This easy route offers accessible cycling through the iconic saguaro forests of Saguaro National Park West.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Rillito River Trail – Pantano River Park loop from Fantasy Island - Bunny Trailhead, a moderate 54.5 miles (87.7 km) path. This route explores the extensive river park system, providing a long, car-free experience through varied Sonoran Desert scenery.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Marble Waters – Batty Biker loop from Flowing Wells, a 28.7 miles (46.2 km) trail leading through river parks and desert landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 40 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Pima County is defined by the Sonoran Desert, saguaro cacti, and extensive river park systems, including the Chuck Huckelberry Loop. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy, flat paths to moderate routes with gentle climbs.
- The routes in Pima County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 240 reviews. More than 3700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Pima County's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
5.0
(1)
4
riders
9.79km
01:04
120m
170m
The Bajada Loop Drive offers an immersive touring cycling experience through the heart of the Sonoran Desert, where you'll pedal past dense "forests" of giant saguaro cacti. The route is mostly an unpaved, graded dirt road with gentle rolls, providing spectacular views of Apache Peak and other surrounding mountains. It's an easy ride, perfect for soaking in the unique desert scenery and spotting local wildlife.
To make the most of your visit, plan to cycle during the cooler months from October to April, as summer heat can be intense. Remember that Saguaro National Park entrance fees apply, and you'll need to carry all your water, as none is available on the 6.1 miles (9.8 km) loop. The route is predominantly one-way, requiring travel in a counter-clockwise direction, and a gravel bike is recommended for the unpaved sections.
This 1 hour and 3 minutes touring bicycle route, with its modest 403 feet (123 metres) of elevation gain, is considered easy and highly accessible for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. It's notable for its iconic saguaro landscapes and offers access to the picturesque Valley View Overlook Trail and the ancient Hohokam petroglyphs at Signal Hill, providing both natural beauty and cultural history.
4
riders
5.22km
00:29
20m
20m
The Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve North Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, guiding you along 3.2 miles (5.2 km) of paved paths through the Sonoran Desert. You'll pedal past saguaros, mesquite, and palo verde, with the Catalina and Tortolita Mountains framing the horizon, all on a route that feels like a peaceful escape. It's an easy ride with only 52 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, perfect for a quick 28-minute spin.
Planning your visit is straightforward; the preserve is open from dawn to dusk, providing a safe, car-free environment for cyclists, runners, and walkers. The trail system is well-integrated, connecting to numerous neighborhoods via wide underpasses, making access incredibly convenient. This easy route is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, offering a gentle way to explore the desert.
What makes this trail truly special is its transformation from a former golf course into a thriving desert habitat and public recreation area. This conservation effort has created an important wildlife corridor within an urbanized setting, allowing you to spot various fauna like quail and bobcats. It's a testament to how nature can reclaim and enrich a community, offering a unique blend of accessibility and natural beauty.
Sign up for free
4.8
(13)
106
riders
36.6km
02:08
100m
100m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(11)
62
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
49
riders
29.8km
01:46
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
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 Pima County
Traffic-free bike rides around Tucson
Traffic-free bike rides in Saguaro National Park
Traffic-free bike rides in Saguaro Wilderness
Traffic-free bike rides in Pusch Ridge Wilderness
Traffic-free bike rides around Mount Lemmon
Traffic-free bike rides around Oro Valley
Traffic-free bike rides in the Rincon Mountains
Traffic-free bike rides around Casas Adobes
Traffic-free bike rides around Catalina Foothills
Traffic-free bike rides around Rincon Valley
Tips from the Community
This northern path continues to follow the old golf course, with benches and some spots to rest along the way. As of 2026, there is construction on the east end of this section, so the loop trail is closed and you can only walk it as an out-and-back from the entrance to the west.
0
0
Tracks and Trails Mural, 2023. Artists: Jessica Gonzales and Rock Martinez. Overview: The vibrant painting depicts the relationship between wildlife, vegetation and humans in the desert ecosystem. Viewed from left to right, the mural reveals a typical day in the desert, starting at dawn and ending at night. Designed with elements of optical illusion, the mural creates a dynamic visual experience for viewers traveling the path across the wash, shifting and revealing new perspectives as they move past the artwork. The expansive mural not only enhances the landscape but also reflects the artists’ shared vision and their engagement with the surrounding community. Best viewed from the other side of the wash.
0
0
Nature of Movement, 2015. Artist: Joshua Wiener. Overview: The sculpture expands your attention by changing as you move through the space. As you approach, it has an inverted cone on one side and a series of vertical lines on the other. As you move past the piece, the cone unravels while the other side becomes a cone. Understanding how we inhabit the land and what our perspective does to our experience will help us be more perceptive.
0
0
Subaerial Embrace, 2021. Artists: Zach Lihtash and Troy Neiman. Overview: The artists were inspired by hoodoos and rock formations near Windy Point in the Catalina Mountains. The sculpture, that you can move through, is made of steel and concrete stucco and provides protection for a bike/pedestrian counter.
0
0
Sun Circle, 1994. Artists: Paul T. Edwards, Susan Holman, Chris Tanz. Overview: This circular structure built of concrete block and flagstone features eight interrupted curving walls create a kiva-like circle. Six of the walls have small ports oriented toward sunrise and sunset at the summer and winter solstices, and the spring and fall equinoxes.
0
0
Batty Biker Family, 2016. Artist: Stephen Fairfield. Overview: This whimsical steel sculpture of bats on bikes pays tribute to the Campbell Avenue bridge where bats roost.
0
0
Marble Waters, 2008. Artist: Robin Riley. Overview: This combination of cascading rain and raindrops shows the abstract movement of water using 2,000 iridescent glass marbles and broken tile. The raindrops are circles of broken tile with marbles inside.
0
0
Wild Spirit, 2025. Artist: Al Glann. This is one of many sculptures along the Tucson Loop. See pima.gov/170/The-Loop-Art-Map.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Pima County?
Pima County offers a wide selection of no-traffic touring cycling routes, with over 80 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy the unique Sonoran Desert landscape.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Pima County?
The best time for touring cycling in Pima County is typically from late fall through spring (October to April). During these months, temperatures are milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities, allowing you to fully enjoy the desert scenery without the intense summer heat.
What is the general difficulty level of these no-traffic routes?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Pima County offer a range of difficulties. You'll find many easy routes, perfect for a relaxed ride, alongside moderate options for those seeking a bit more challenge. For example, the Bajada Loop Drive is an easy ride, while the Rillito River Trail – Pantano River Park loop is considered moderate.
Are there any completely car-free bike trails in Pima County?
Yes, Pima County is famous for its extensive car-free cycling infrastructure. The most prominent is The Chuck Huckelberry Loop, often simply called "The Loop." This system offers over 138 miles of paved, shared-use paths, connecting various river parks and greenways, providing a truly car-free experience through the region. You can find more information about The Loop on the official Pima County website: pima.gov/The-Chuck-Huckelberry-Loop.
Are there family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Absolutely! Many of the no-traffic routes in Pima County are ideal for families. The paved, car-free nature of paths like The Chuck Huckelberry Loop makes them safe and enjoyable for cyclists of all ages. Routes such as the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve North Loop are particularly well-suited for a relaxed family outing.
What kind of scenery can I expect on these routes?
Pima County's no-traffic cycling routes immerse you in the iconic Sonoran Desert. You'll experience breathtaking landscapes characterized by towering saguaro cacti, diverse desert flora, and stunning mountain backdrops. Routes often follow river paths, offering glimpses of riparian habitats, while others, like those in Saguaro National Park, provide vast desert vistas.
Can I bring my dog on these no-traffic cycling routes?
Many sections of Pima County's multi-use paths, including parts of The Chuck Huckelberry Loop, are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. However, specific rules can vary by park or preserve. For example, Saguaro National Park has restrictions on where pets are allowed. Always check local regulations for the specific trail you plan to ride to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
What natural attractions can I see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Along Pima County's no-traffic routes, you can encounter a variety of natural attractions. Many routes pass through or near areas like Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain Park, offering views of saguaro forests and desert wildlife. You might also spot significant geological features like Loma Verde Wash or enjoy scenic views from various peaks and viewpoints.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Parking is generally accessible at various points along the major no-traffic routes. For The Chuck Huckelberry Loop, numerous access points and parking lots are available along its extensive network, including at the various river parks it connects. For routes within Saguaro National Park, designated parking areas are available, such as near the Bajada Loop Drive in Saguaro National Park West.
Is public transport available to access these routes?
Yes, public transport can be used to access some of the no-traffic cycling routes, particularly those within the Tucson metropolitan area. Sun Tran, Tucson's public transit system, offers routes that can get you close to various trailheads and access points for The Chuck Huckelberry Loop. Cyclists can often bring their bikes on buses, but it's advisable to check Sun Tran's specific bike policies and route maps for the most current information.
Are there places to eat or drink near the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, many sections of the no-traffic routes, especially those that pass through or near urban and suburban areas, have cafes, restaurants, and shops conveniently located nearby. For instance, areas adjacent to the Rillito River Path and Santa Cruz River Park often have establishments where you can grab a bite or a drink to refuel during your ride.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about no-traffic cycling in Pima County?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Pima County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers consistently praise the extensive network of car-free paths, the stunning desert scenery, and the feeling of safety and tranquility while riding. The ability to immerse oneself in nature, often spotting local wildlife, is also a frequently highlighted aspect.
Most popular routes in Pima County
Most popular attractions in Pima County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Cycling routes throughout Pima County below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
