Swede1

Hi all,

Relocated to AZ a few months ago and trying to figure out where to get my road cycling done. I did some of the canal (from Northern and 10 miles south), but felt as though there was too much gravel, too many roads to deal with.

I know I will have to cave and buy a mountain bike, but would still like to get the miles in. Any recommendations for the area?

Thanks!

locolobo13 

Here's an interactive map of the valley. Personally I use google maps with the bicycle trails option on most of the time.

https://geo.azmag.gov/maps/bikemap/#

The Arizona Canal Path is paved to the west. Where you can hook up to the New River and Skunk Creek Trails. New River connects to the Grand Canal but you may not like it as you have more traffic crossings.

There are several cycling clubs. Best bet is to google them.

Groundsloth

I only ride MTB (for now) but I run quite a bit on the roads, so I have an idea where to ride without worrying too much about cars.

The town of Paradise Valley has some great streets, views, and climbs. Speed limits are low and many of the roads have bike lanes. I’m sure you can find plenty of routes on Strava.

There are also decent roads near Tatum and Cholla and then out toward Scottsdale.

I’ve seen plenty of group rides on Scottsdale Rd north of the 101 heading to Bartlett Lake.

I used to commute down the canals from the Biltmore down to Indian School Rd. I liked it but I was on an MTB because the first part of my commute was on trail 100 just east of the 51.

Welcome to AZ and enjoy your ride!

Cryptoboy13

Thanks for this info!