Tips
July 18, 2019
Mountain biking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Hawknest Trail
5.0
(2)
24
riders
29.0km
02:29
220m
220m
Embark on the Hawksnest & Latigo Trail loop for a moderate mountain biking adventure through the classic Sonoran Desert. This 18.0-mile (29.0 km) route offers a diverse experience, with a total elevation gain of 719 feet (219 metres) that you can complete in about 2 hours and 28 minutes. You'll ride past towering Saguaro cacti and large Yuccas, enjoying expansive views of the McDowell Mountains and Four Peaks in the distance. While the Latigo Trail provides smoother sections, be ready for technical rock gardens and tighter turns on the Hawksnest Trail, requiring precise bike handling.
Plan your ride starting from the Pima Dynamite Trailhead, a convenient access point that provides ample parking. You'll also find restrooms with running water and drinking fountains available there. Remember that electric bikes are generally not permitted on trails within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The trails are multi-use, so expect to share the path respectfully with hikers, runners, and equestrians.
This loop immerses you in the unique Sonoran Desert ecosystem, showcasing its distinctive flora like Cholla and Ocotillo. The varied terrain, from smoother paths to more technical sections, makes it a popular choice for mountain bikers seeking a balanced challenge. It stands out in the region for its combination of scenic beauty and engaging trail features, offering a true taste of desert riding.
15
riders
24.5km
02:06
190m
190m
Embark on the Dare A Sarah, Hawknest, and Scorpion Trail Loop for a moderate mountain biking adventure through the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This route spans 15.2 miles (24.5 km) and includes a total elevation gain of 637 feet (194 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 5 minutes to complete. As you ride, you'll navigate through classic Sonoran Desert landscapes, encountering abundant saguaro, staghorn, and cholla cacti, with the Hawknest Trail offering particularly rocky sections and granite outcrops.
Planning your ride is straightforward, with the interconnected trails allowing for a customized experience. You can access this loop from the Brown's Ranch Pima & Dynamite trailhead area, where parking is generally available. Look out for marked off-shoots indicating "Most Difficult" sections, giving you the option to challenge yourself or choose an easier bypass, ensuring the ride suits your skill level.
This loop provides a diverse riding experience within the expansive McDowell Sonoran Preserve, known for its unique desert ecosystem. The ability to tailor your route with optional challenging sections makes it a versatile choice for mountain bikers. Keep an eye out for vibrant spring desert flowers if you visit during the blooming season, adding a splash of color to the rugged terrain.
5.0
(1)
43
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 6.00 km
Downhill 70 m
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Tuesday 16 June
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Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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