The Road To Nowhere — Sun Valley Parkway

Cycle through the remote Sonoran Desert on The Road To Nowhere (Sun Valley Parkway), a route defined by its vast, undeveloped landscape and quiet stretches of highway. You'll find continuous, expansive views of natural desert vistas, including creosote, mesquite, palo verde, and various cacti, creating an immersive natural experience. The terrain is mostly well-paved, four-lane highway with wide shoulders, offering ample space for a moderate 72.8-mile (117.1 km) ride with 893 feet (272 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 31 minutes.

Planning your ride requires self-sufficiency, as there are no services, shade, or good resting spots along the majority of the route. Be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and repair supplies for this remote journey. No permits or fees are needed to cycle the parkway itself, but always consider the desert climate and plan your visit for cooler times of day or year.

This route earned its nickname because it was built between 1988 and 1989 as a major thoroughfare for anticipated development that never fully materialized, leaving a massive, underutilized road through the desert. This history contributes to its appeal for cyclists, providing a lengthy, remote, and low-traffic route ideal for uninterrupted riding through the unique Arizona landscape.

Tackle the West Phoenix Century loop, a challenging 106.6-mile road cycling route through the Sonoran Desert, featuring the remote Sun Valle