The best traffic-free bike rides around Gilbert

There are several dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Gilbert, offering a variety of experiences. This guide features 7 carefully selected routes, ranging from easy to moderate, ensuring a car-free cycling adventure.

Yes, Gilbert offers several easy no-traffic gravel bike trails perfect for families and beginners. For instance, the Greenfield Lakes Golf Course – Eastern Canal Trail loop from SanTan Village Shopping Center is an easy option that provides a pleasant ride without significant elevation changes, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.

Gilbert's no-traffic gravel trails offer a diverse range of scenery, from the iconic saguaros and desert flora of the Sonoran Desert to lush riparian areas. You can expect views of the San Tan Mountains, the serene Lower Salt River, and the unique urban oasis of the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. Many canal paths also provide expansive views of the Arizona landscape.

The best seasons for no-traffic gravel biking in Gilbert are typically fall, winter, and spring (October through April). During these months, temperatures are mild and pleasant, making for comfortable riding conditions. Summers can be extremely hot, so early morning rides are recommended if cycling during that time.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel bike routes in Gilbert are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the Freestone Pond – Freestone Park loop from Gilbert, which offers a substantial ride in a circular format.

Along Gilbert's no-traffic gravel bike trails, you can encounter several interesting highlights. The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a notable urban oasis with diverse wildlife and trails. You might also pass by the Kiwanis Park or enjoy views of various lakes like Layton Lake and Kiwanis Lake, especially on routes that follow canal paths.

Many trailheads and parks in Gilbert offer free parking for trail users. For routes like the Greenfield Lakes Golf Course – Eastern Canal Trail loop, you can often find parking near shopping centers or public access points along the canal paths. Larger parks such as Freestone Park also provide ample parking for accessing nearby trails.

While Gilbert has a public transit system, direct access to all gravel trailheads via public transport can be limited. It's advisable to check specific route connections and bus schedules if you plan to use public transport to reach a starting point. Many trails are more easily accessed by car or by cycling to the trailhead from within Gilbert.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, routes like the Salt River Picnic Area loop from Habitat Island offer a substantial distance and moderate difficulty. These routes often combine canal paths with sections that provide a more rugged gravel experience, allowing for extended rides in a car-free environment.

The no-traffic gravel biking experience in Gilbert is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of canal paths that provide long, uninterrupted rides, the unique desert scenery, and the peace of mind that comes with car-free routes. The accessibility to natural beauty within an urban setting is also a frequently highlighted positive.

While many trails are well-known, exploring the less-traveled sections of the extensive canal path system can reveal hidden gems. The **Southern Canal Path** north of Gilbert, for instance, offers 9.3 miles of trail with views of Arizona in its natural state, providing a quieter experience away from more populated areas. The Riparian Preserve also offers serene paths for a unique urban escape.