The best cycling routes around Scottsdale

Scottsdale offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 100 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, including approximately 55 easy, 55 moderate, and 8 difficult trails.

The mild fall, winter, and early spring weather make Scottsdale an ideal destination for cycling. Conditions are comfortable for midday excursions during these cooler months, allowing you to fully enjoy the Sonoran Desert landscape.

Yes, Scottsdale has numerous easy and family-friendly options. The Arizona Canal to Grand Canal loop — Metro Scottsdale is a moderate 23.8-mile (38.3 km) trail that follows canal paths, offering a relatively flat and accessible ride through urban and natural surroundings. The Scottsdale Greenbelt is also known for its flat terrain and multi-use paths, suitable for all skill levels.

For cyclists seeking a more strenuous experience, the McDowell Mountain Regional Park & Needle Rock loop — North Scottsdale is a difficult 33.2-mile (53.4 km) route with significant elevation changes, offering a rewarding challenge amidst the desert landscape. The McDowell Mountains themselves provide challenging climbs and sweeping descents.

Many of Scottsdale's touring cycling routes are loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Gateway Trailhead to Scottsdale Rotary Park loop — Metro Scottsdale is a 23.4-mile (37.7 km) moderate loop that offers diverse scenery.

Scottsdale's routes offer stunning views of the Sonoran Desert, saguaro cacti, and mountain backdrops. You can encounter landmarks like Camelback Mountain and Pinnacle Peak. The Paradise Valley loop — Paradise Valley provides excellent views of the surrounding desert and mountains, including Camelback Mountain. For specific natural attractions, consider visiting Papago Park Red Rock Formations or the Arizona Falls.

The touring cycling routes in Scottsdale are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse Sonoran Desert landscapes, the extensive network of canal paths, and the picturesque backdrop of the McDowell Mountains.

Yes, the Scottsdale Shea Medical Center & Tempe Town Lake loop — Metro Scottsdale connects urban areas with the scenic Tempe Town Lake. The Scottsdale Greenbelt is another excellent option, stretching over 11 miles through the heart of Scottsdale, connecting parks, golf courses, and recreational areas, often featuring public art installations and minimizing traffic interactions.

While specific rules vary by trail, many multi-use trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and urban green spaces generally allow dogs on a leash. It's always recommended to check specific trail regulations before heading out with your pet.

The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a vast protected desert habitat offering over 100 miles of multi-use trails. For detailed information about the preserve, including trail access and regulations, you can visit the official website: scottsdaleaz.gov/preserve.

The Arizona Canal Trail is a great example, offering a blend of urban and natural environments. It provides an excellent way to explore Old Town Scottsdale, its public art, and the unique desert landscape along the canal banks.