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 TUCSON
Planning a vacation to Tucson with your bike? Smart move. Tucson isn’t just sunny year-round—it’s also a designated Gold Level Bicycle-Friendly Community with world-class infrastructure, wide bike lanes, scenic loops, and desert views for days. Whether you're into laid-back greenway rides or legendary mountain climbs, Tucson delivers. This guide breaks down the best routes for cycling and touring so you can explore the city like a local—on two wheels.
Best city trails and greenways
Tucson makes urban riding a breeze thanks to its sprawling trail system called The Loop. With over 130 miles of connected, car-free paths, you can see the city, skirt the foothills, and spin through the desert without touching busy roads. If you’re just getting started or want a relaxing intro to Tucson’s cycling scene, these are the routes to check out first.
The Chuck Huckelberry Loop
Known locally as "The Loop," this massive multi-use trail circles Tucson and connects parks, riverbeds, and neighborhoods. It's completely off-street and ideal for tourists wanting a chill ride with epic mountain views and plenty of rest stops. You can ride any segment or go big and loop the whole thing—it’s one of the best urban cycling experiences in the U.S.
Length: 130+ miles (looped network)
Surface: Fully paved
Highlights: Rillito River, Santa Cruz River, desert scenery
Best for: All skill levels, sightseeing, casual riding
Rillito River Path Segment
For a scenic ride that stays close to the action, the Rillito River Path section of The Loop is a favorite. It runs east-west across north Tucson, offering wide, smooth paths with mountain backdrops and easy access to coffee shops, breweries, and parks. It’s a great half-day ride that mixes urban fun with natural beauty.
Length: ~22 miles one way
Surface: Paved, separated path
Highlights: Mountain views, trail art, local eats nearby
Best for: Families, first-timers, leisure riders
If you’re starting your Tucson biking adventure, these urban trails are perfect. They’re safe, scenic, and let you explore the city at your own pace.
Scenic desert rides and climbs
Ready to leave the city behind and get a little dusty? Tucson’s surrounding terrain is full of scenic climbs, rolling hills, and Sonoran Desert beauty. These routes are ideal for riders who want to break a sweat, gain some elevation, and experience Arizona’s unique landscape up close.
Gates Pass + Saguaro National Park Loop
This iconic loop combines a thrilling climb through Gates Pass with a gorgeous roll through Saguaro National Park West. You’ll ride past towering cacti, desert plateaus, and stunning viewpoints. Be ready for a couple of punchy climbs and unforgettable views—it’s a classic for a reason.
Distance: ~30–35 miles loop
Surface: Road (paved)
Highlights: Scenic climbs, saguaro forests, desert sunsets
Best for: Intermediate riders, scenic seekers
Mount Lemmon Highway
If you’re up for a challenge, Mount Lemmon is the ultimate Tucson climb. Starting in the desert and ending in alpine forest at nearly 9,000 feet, this 26-mile ascent is both brutal and beautiful. Take your time, pack layers, and stop at the Cookie Cabin at the top. Pro tip: You can also just ride partway up for a shorter but still epic experience.
Distance: 26 miles one way (full climb)
Elevation Gain: 6,000+ ft
Highlights: Sweeping views, rock formations, changing biomes
Best for: Advanced cyclists, climbers, bucket-listers
These scenic rides take you deep into Tucson’s natural beauty. Just bring water, snacks, and a camera—you’ll want to remember these rides forever.
Multi-day bike touring routes
Tucson is a top-tier destination for bike touring thanks to its bike-friendly layout, scenic byways, and proximity to other charming desert towns. Whether you’re into gravel adventures or smooth road touring, there are a few amazing multi-day routes you can launch right from the city.
Tucson to Patagonia Loop
Head south from Tucson through Sonoita wine country and into the quirky artist town of Patagonia. This route offers a mix of quiet roads, rolling hills, and small-town charm. Stay overnight in Patagonia, then return via a slightly different loop. Great food, chill vibes, and desert vistas make it a touring favorite.
Total Distance: ~125 miles round trip
Surface: Paved roads
Highlights: Wine country, wildlife, artisan shops
Best for: 2-day tourers, road touring fans
Tucson to Bisbee (via Tombstone)
This epic 3-day bike tour takes you through some of Arizona’s most iconic Old West towns. Start in Tucson, pass through Tombstone (yep, that Tombstone), and end in the funky hillside town of Bisbee. Expect quiet highways, desert expanses, and some decent climbing. Hotels and Airbnbs are available along the way, or bring your camping gear for the full experience.
Total Distance: ~195 miles (one way)
Surface: Road touring
Highlights: Tombstone, Bisbee, desert solitude
Best for: Advanced tourers, history buffs
Tucson’s surroundings offer the perfect mix of scenery, smooth roads, and fascinating stops. With reliable weather and low humidity, it’s ideal for multi-day rides almost year-round.
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