23 May What Are the Best Bike Trails in the Phoenix Area?

Did you know May is National Bike Month 2022? Traveling around the Phoenix area by bicycle is one of our favorite pastimes here at Phelps LaClair. We are lucky to live in a city that is chock full of amazing biking trails and pathways. Here’s a list of what we think are the best bike trails in Phoenix and nearby. 

Get Rollin’—The Five Best Bike Trails in Phoenix

1: Salt River Project Irrigation Canals

Back in 1964, the Salt River Project (SRP) and its city partners built over 60 miles of canal trails running through Phoenix, Glendale, Peoria, Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, and Chandler. These trails are perfect for leisurely bike rides, and also for walking and running. The paths even offer ADA-accessible routes, lighting for nighttime use, and commissioned artwork. 

Visit SRP’s website for a full map of the canals. You can also create your own map by selecting a specific canal trail and the points where you want to start and stop. 

2: Scottsdale Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt and Shared-Use Paths 

Scottsdale is considered a gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community by The League of American Bicyclists. The 11-mile Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt runs throughout the city, and features 24 grade-separated crossings so users can avoid major traffic crossings. Scottsdale also has a huge network of shared-use paths that are perfect for cycling. 

3: National Trail at South Mountain

In our opinion, the best trail for mountain bikes is the National Trail at South Mountain. This trail is about 12.5 miles long and its interesting topography makes it a favorite for mountain bikers in the area. About three miles in from the Buena Vista parking area is a lookout with beautiful vistas of the Phoenix area. If you’re a beginner, prepare to walk some of the more technical portions of the trail, such as the “waterfall.” 

4: Glendale Skunk Creek Linear Park and Thunderbird Paseo Park

Why pick one favorite bike trail in Glendale when you can have two? Skunk Creek Linear Park features a 3.5-mile paved pathway running along the creek itself. This path connects to the almost 4-mile paved pathway at Thunderbird Paseo Park, letting you easily continue your cycling fun. The pathway at Thunderbird Paseo Park is also a great option for little bikers, as the path is away from major traffic. 

5: “The Loop” Bike Path in Tucson

For serious bicyclists who want to get some mileage, “The Loop” Bike Path in Tucson is a continuous, paved loop of about 53 miles. Miles of paths along the Santa Cruz River form this lengthy bike trail. In most areas, the bike paths are available on both sides of the river, and it provides a safe way for bicyclists to get around the area without the hassle of car traffic. 

Plan Your Living Trust in Arizona

While you’re out enjoying the best bike trails in Phoenix this spring and summer, don’t forget to also make time to review your estate plan. For example, do you have a living trust set up? A living trust is the best way to ensure that your assets will go where you want them to go without the hassle of probate. 

If you need to add a will or living trust to your estate plan, contact Phelps LaClair today at 480-892-2488 to schedule an appointment.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (12.12.2024). Photo by Patrick Hendry on Unsplash