The best traffic-free bike rides in Pinal County

Pinal County offers a great selection of routes for gravel biking away from traffic. Our guide features 8 hand-picked no-traffic gravel bike trails, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

You'll encounter a diverse range of terrain, primarily characterized by the Sonoran Desert. Expect mixed-terrain cycling through arid yet vibrant ecosystems, often with hard-packed to rutted surfaces, washes, and cattle guards. Trails can also feature significant elevation changes as they traverse various mountain ranges like the Superstition Mountains and Pinal Mountains.

Pinal County's climate, with its warm, sunny days, allows for year-round outdoor recreation. However, for the most comfortable experience, especially on longer rides, the cooler months from fall through spring are ideal. Summer can be very hot, so early morning rides are recommended if you venture out during those months.

Yes, there are options suitable for families. For instance, the San Tan Trail – San Tan Trail loop from San Tan Mountain Regional Park offers a moderate ride through the foothills, with some sections being mostly paved, making it accessible for various fitness levels. San Tan Mountain Regional Park itself has over 20 miles of non-motorized trails.

Pinal County stands out due to its diverse landscapes, extensive trail networks, and a strong commitment to preserving open space for recreation. You can explore expansive Sonoran Desert terrain, dramatic mountain ranges, and dedicated regional parks, all offering unique and quiet gravel biking experiences. The county's efforts in trail management ensure ample opportunities to engage with its natural beauty.

Absolutely. Pinal County is home to several difficult gravel routes that will test your endurance and skill. For example, the Levee Trail – County Line Trail loop from Usery Mountain Regional Park is an 18.3 km difficult trail navigating varied desert landscapes. Another challenging option is the Double Tanks loop from Catalina Tank, which covers over 51 km with significant elevation gain.

Many of the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Pinal County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Gato Tank – Rincon Ranch loop from Fletcher Tank, a challenging 55.8 km path, and the Gato Tank – 96 Ranch loop from Dudleyville, which is over 64 km long.

Pinal County's trails often pass by or offer views of remarkable natural and historical sites. You might encounter striking geological features like Picacho Peak State Park, unique rock formations such as Praying Hands Rock Formation, or the iconic Saguaro Cactus. The region is rich in desert flora and fauna, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Yes, Pinal County boasts several regional parks and protected areas ideal for gravel biking. San Tan Mountain Regional Park is a great example, offering extensive non-motorized trails. Sections of the Coronado National Forest, particularly around Mt. Lemmon, also provide excellent gravel roads away from heavy traffic. These areas are managed to provide access to the natural beauty of the region.

Many of the popular gravel biking routes in Pinal County originate from regional parks or designated trailheads, which typically offer parking facilities. For example, the Levee Trail – County Line Trail loop starts from Usery Mountain Regional Park, and the San Tan Trail loop begins at San Tan Mountain Regional Park. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details for trailhead locations and parking information.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.875 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, expansive desert landscapes, the variety of challenging routes, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature away from traffic. The unique Sonoran Desert environment and dramatic mountain backdrops are frequently highlighted as major draws.