Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN PHOENIX
Phoenix might be known for its desert heat and cacti, but it’s also a two-wheeled paradise if you know where to ride. With sunshine almost year-round, a growing network of bike paths, and trails that range from urban to wild, this city is a prime pick for a cycling vacation. Whether you’re planning a multi-day bike tour or just want to explore with your road, gravel, or hybrid bike, Phoenix offers everything from riverside rides to desert loops. Here’s your guide to the best cycling and bike touring routes in Phoenix, tailored for tourists bringing their bikes and ready to roll.
Best multi-use paths and greenbelt rides
Bike-friendly paths you can ride all day
If you're into smooth, scenic rides with minimal traffic stress, Phoenix has some epic paved trails that make bike touring feel effortless. Top of the list is the Arizona Canal Trail, which stretches across much of the metro area. You’ll roll alongside palm trees, neighborhoods, golf courses, and even the occasional shopping plaza. It's long, flat, and ideal for all-day exploration.
Another favorite is the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt in Scottsdale. It’s a lush, 11-mile corridor that links parks, lakes, and picnic areas. Despite being in the desert, this route feels surprisingly green — and it’s super bike-friendly.
For riders who want to stay close to downtown while still getting a workout, check out the Grand Canal Trail, which connects through Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa. It’s a great commuter route but also perfect for tourists looking to link neighborhoods without hitting busy roads.
Arizona Canal Trail: 20+ miles of sunny riding through scenic and urban zones.
Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt: Park-to-park riding with shade and lakes.
Grand Canal Trail: Connects East Valley cities with bike-friendly paths.
Tempe Town Lake Loop: A short but scenic 7-mile loop around water and skyline views.
Rio Salado Pathway: Riverside riding from Tempe to west Phoenix with mountain views.
Bonus tip: grab a burrito or smoothie from a local spot near the trailheads — Phoenix has a killer food scene that’s perfect for mid-ride fuel-ups.
Scenic and challenging desert routes
Where the real adventure begins
Want to feel like you’re riding through a postcard? Phoenix delivers with stunning desert routes that give you wide-open views, giant saguaros, and climbs that’ll wake your legs up. These rides are best done early morning or late afternoon — the desert sun is no joke.
A must-do is the South Mountain Park Summit Road. It’s a steady 5.5-mile climb to Dobbins Lookout, with a serious payoff at the top: panoramic views of the valley. There’s little car traffic (especially on designated "Bike Sundays"), and the road is smooth and well-maintained.
For longer mixed-surface touring, ride the Desert Classic Trail — it hugs the base of South Mountain and offers a combination of hard-packed dirt and gravel. It’s great for gravel bikes or beefy hybrids.
South Mountain Summit Road: Iconic 11-mile out-and-back climb with epic views.
Desert Classic Trail: Mixed surface ride perfect for adventure cyclists.
McDowell Sonoran Preserve Loop: Great gravel and MTB crossover trail.
Papago Park Trails: Short but scenic desert loops near downtown.
Cave Creek to Carefree Ride: Rolling desert hills through boutique towns.
Planning a long tour? Consider linking Cave Creek, Carefree, and Fountain Hills in a desert triangle that feels remote but stays within reach of cafes and rest stops. These towns are cycling-friendly and add character to your journey.
Just bring extra water, sun sleeves, and a backup tube — desert touring is awesome, but you’ve got to prep right.
Best loops and park-based rides
Cruise and chill in local green spaces
If you’re looking for relaxing, scenic rides where you can cruise at your own pace, Phoenix’s parks and suburban loops are exactly what you need. These routes are perfect for rest days, family rides, or when you just want to take it easy and soak up the vibes.
Start with Encanto Park, one of the city’s oldest and most charming parks. There’s a loop around the lake and paths that link into nearby neighborhoods. It’s flat, shady, and close to some great brunch spots.
Reach 11 Recreation Area is another gem — located in North Phoenix, this network of paths weaves through desert brush and suburban spaces. You can do short laps or link it with nearby roads for longer loops.
Encanto Park Loop: Chill lake loop with historic vibes and easy access.
Reach 11 Trail System: Family-friendly paved and unpaved options.
Steele Indian School Park: Wide open paths and great downtown views.
Tempe Beach Park: Good for slow rides and people-watching.
Margaret T. Hance Park: Near downtown with cool architecture and events.
What’s great about these parks is they double as cultural spots — you might stumble across food trucks, outdoor yoga, or even a local market during your ride. They’re also perfect for meeting up with other cyclists or unwinding after a longer morning loop.
So if your legs are toast or you just want to ride low and slow, Phoenix parks have your back.
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