The moment you hop on a bike and begin pedaling, there’s a sense of freedom and adventure that engulfs you. Add to that a scenic backdrop of sun-splashed mountain vistas and desert landscapes, and you’ve got yourself the perfect biking vacation. If you’re wondering where to find such an experience, then pack your saddlebags and head to a gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community, Scottsdale, Arizona.
The Allure of Scottsdale’s Scenic Biking Trails
Nestled deep within the picturesque Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale captivates cyclists with its elaborate assortment of bike paths and trails. Each trail caters to cyclists of varying expertise levels, making it an all-inclusive biking destination. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a major highlight, boasting over 225 miles of multi-use trails etching their way through the raw desert terrain. As you pedal through these trails, the beauty of blooming cacti will enthrall you, while encounters with native wildlife such as javelinas offer a unique thrill. Majestic mountain vistas serve as the constant backdrop to your biking adventure, offering sights that are a treat to the senses. For road biking enthusiasts, Scottsdale offers the smoothly paved paths of the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, our backyard. This 11-mile stretch links a series of parks, making for a relaxed ride where you can bask in the warm desert sunshine. Enjoy direct access to the Greenbelt when staying at Scottsdale Park Suites! You literally cannot stay closer to the trails!
Biking Amenities and Facilities in Scottsdale
Biking in Scottsdale is made all the more appealing by the comprehensive amenities and facilities tailored specifically for cyclists. The city plays host to a variety of bike rental services offering everything a cyclist could need from reliable bicycles, helmets for safety, to sturdy locks for securing your ride. If you prefer to be led on your biking adventure, many rental services also provide guided tours that ensure you see the best Scottsdale has to offer.
Our office has 2 leisure bikes that are available for use when booking your stay with us!
To aid your independent exploration, Scottsdale makes free biking maps readily accessible. These maps cover the city’s extensive trail system and are a handy tool to help you choose the best routes to suit your biking desires and abilities. Whether you want a challenging mountainous path or a leisurely urban route, these maps will guide you in the right direction.
In Scottsdale’s thoughtful consideration for bikers’ needs is a testament to its commitment to being a premier biking destination. It takes into account every cyclist’s need, from equipment rental to trail navigation and repair needs, ensuring a seamless biking experience. The city of Scottsdale truly rolls out the red carpet for biking enthusiasts, making it the ultimate biking vacation destination.
Combining Fitness with Vacation – The Scottsdale Way
Why let your workout routine take a backseat when you can seamlessly integrate it into your Scottsdale vacation? The city’s diverse trail system serves as your outdoor gym, delivering a cardio workout like no other as you pedal through magnificent desert terrains. Scottsdale’s biking trails cater to a range of fitness levels, from novice to expert cyclists, making it possible for everyone to engage in a workout that suits them. If you opt for a rugged mountain trail, you’re in for a high-intensity ride that’s sure to get your heart pumping. Alternatively, a leisurely cruise along the city’s urban paths provides a low-impact, relaxed exercise option, perfect for a recovery day. As you’re working up a sweat and burning those calories, you’re simultaneously soaking up the captivating scenery that Scottsdale has to offer. The beauty of this is that you’re maintaining your fitness while exploring the city. And after a rewarding workout on the trails, you’ve earned the right to savor the delicacies of Scottsdale’s vibrant culinary scene without an ounce of guilt. Indeed, the Scottsdale way of combining fitness with vacation offers a perfect balance, letting you keep active while immersing yourself in an unforgettable travel experience.
Exploring Scottsdale’s Culture and History on Two Wheels
Immerse yourself in the local vibe of Scottsdale by cycling through its historic heart – the Old Town. This bustling area presents a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary Southwest charm with its wide array of boutiques, local eateries, and art galleries. Experience a sense of time travel as you cycle past the Scottsdale Historical Museum, where each exhibit tells a tale of the city’s rich past. Not too far from here, you’ll find the Scottsdale Contemporary Arts Museum – a haven for modern art enthusiasts. The exhibits here reflect the current trends in art, providing a stark contrast to the historical artifacts just a few pedals away.
As dusk descends, Scottsdale’s art scene comes alive in the form of the Scottsdale ArtWalk. Easily accessible on a bike, this event showcases the work of many local artists and offers you a chance to meet these creative minds in person. Cycling through the ArtWalk, you’ll encounter an assortment of sculptures, paintings, and multimedia installations that illuminate the streets with their creative brilliance.
Biking through Scottsdale doesn’t just offer an exercise opportunity, it’s a unique way to soak up the city’s culture and history. Each pedal stroke brings you closer to understanding the essence of this desert city. The bike-friendly routes give you an intimate view of Scottsdale that you simply cannot experience through the window of a tour bus. It’s an exploration that fuses fitness with an authentic appreciation of the city’s heritage, ensuring a vacation experience like no other.
Welcoming Biking Community in Scottsdale
One of the standout features that sets Scottsdale apart as a top biking destination is its vibrant and inclusive biking community. A camaraderie among cyclists is easily observed in the city’s numerous biking events held throughout the year. Key among these are the renowned Tour de Scottsdale and the El Tour de Mesa, events that attract not just local cycling enthusiasts, but also bikers from across the globe. Participating in these events offers an exceptional opportunity to ride alongside thousands of like-minded cyclists, sharing the thrill and excitement that such large-scale biking events bring.
Moreover, Scottsdale boasts a multitude of local biking clubs that are always eager to welcome visitors. These clubs regularly organize group rides, catering to a wide range of cycling abilities and preferences. Whether you’re a novice cyclist looking to learn from more experienced riders, or an expert seeking challenging trails, these clubs provide a supportive and friendly environment to enhance your biking experience.
Beyond these organized events and group rides, the overall sense of welcome in Scottsdale’s biking scene is felt in the day-to-day interactions between cyclists. Whether it’s exchanging friendly nods on the trails, sharing tips and recommendations, or assisting fellow bikers in need, the strong sense of community among Scottsdale’s bikers is a testament to the city’s welcoming atmosphere.
In Scottsdale, cycling is more than just a recreational activity or a mode of transport – it’s a shared passion that brings people together. This thriving biking culture adds another layer to the enriching experience of a biking vacation in Scottsdale, further cementing its status as a premier biking destination.
Whether a leisure biker or biker enthusiast, Scottsdale Park Suites is the perfect hotel alternative for your time in town. Our direct access to the Indian Bend Greenbelt gives you access to miles and miles of trails outside of your front door. The trails are filled with bikers, walkers and joggers.
During your stay talk to our Guest Services team about renting a bike or two and get out on the trails!
Contact our Guest Services today to book your next gold-level Scottsdale stay!
