Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas in Mesa, Arizona, United States

Mesa, United States, Mesa, Travel & Transportation, Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas

Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas in Mesa, Arizona, United States

1. Superstition Mountain Loop

A popular 20-mile scenic loop trail for biking and hiking, offering breathtaking views of Superstition Mountains.
  • Variety of Terrain: Includes a mix of paved roads, gravel paths, and single-track trails.
  • Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot local wildlife like javelinas, coyotes, and various bird species.
  • Scenic Views: Offers panoramic vistas of the Superstition Mountains and Sonoran Desert landscapes.

2. Usery Mountain Regional Park

A regional park featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and mountain biking routes with varying levels of difficulty.
  • Diverse Trails: Features more than 20 miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers.
  • Accessibility: Offers a beginner-friendly loop trail and more challenging routes for experienced cyclists.
  • Natural Beauty: Features unique geological formations, desert vegetation, and mountain views.

3. Queen Creek Trail

A paved multi-use trail running from Mesa to Queen Creek, ideal for walking, biking, and rollerblading.
  • Length: Spans approximately 15 miles from Mesa to Queen Creek.
  • Connectivity: Connected to other biking and walking trails in the area, making it easy to explore further.
  • Scenic Views: Provides views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert, farmlands, and local wildlife.

4. Red Mountain Rim Trail

A challenging trail for experienced mountain bikers, offering stunning views of the Sonoran Desert and Red Mountains.
  • Difficulty Level: Primarily suited for experienced mountain bikers due to its steep terrain and technical sections.
  • Scenic Views: Offers panoramic vistas of the Red Mountains, Mesa, and the surrounding desert landscape.
  • Rock Formations: Features unique rock formations, including the iconic Horseshoe Rock.

5. Pemberton Trail

A paved multi-use trail connecting Mesa with the towns of Gilbert and Queen Creek.
  • Length: Spans approximately 12 miles from Mesa to Queen Creek.
  • Connectivity: Connected to other biking and walking trails in the area, making it easy to explore further.
  • Community Atmosphere: Passes through residential areas and local businesses, offering a unique glimpse into Mesa's communities.

6. Gilbert Water Trail

A water trail featuring kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding opportunities along the Gilbert Canal.
  • Length: Covers a total of 15 miles along the Gilbert Canal.
  • Scenic Views: Offers views of local wildlife, residential areas, and desert landscapes.
  • Accessibility: Includes multiple access points along the canal for easy entry and exit.

7. Saguaro Lake Rim Trail

A moderately difficult trail offering hiking and mountain biking opportunities with stunning views of Saguaro Lake.
  • Difficulty Level: Primarily suited for intermediate to advanced hikers and mountain bikers.
  • Scenic Views: Offers panoramic vistas of Saguaro Lake, the surrounding desert, and nearby mountains.
  • Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot local wildlife like coyotes, javelinas, and various bird species.

8. Treasure Loop Trail

A family-friendly trail offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities in Usery Mountain Regional Park.
  • Accessibility: Suited for all skill levels with a relatively easy terrain.
  • Scenic Views: Offers views of the Sonoran Desert, Usery Pass, and nearby mountain ranges.
  • Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot local wildlife like coyotes, javelinas, and various bird species.

9. Horseshoe Trails

A network of trails in the Horseshoe Park area, offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities.
  • Variety of Trails: Includes a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult trails.
  • Scenic Views: Offers views of the Superstition Mountains, Horseshoe Lake, and nearby desert landscapes.
  • Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot local wildlife like javelinas, coyotes, and various bird species.

10. Sonoran Desert National Monument

A protected area offering hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and stunning desert landscapes.
  • Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot local wildlife like javelinas, coyotes, and various bird species.
  • Scenic Views: Offers panoramic vistas of the Sonoran Desert, nearby mountains, and unique geological formations.
  • Preservation: Helps protect over 490,000 acres of Sonoran Desert habitat.

11. Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

A nature preserve offering hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and educational programs.
  • Birdwatching: Home to over 200 species of birds, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers.
  • Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and guided tours focused on local wildlife and desert ecology.
  • Scenic Views: Provides views of the Salt River, desert vegetation, and nearby mountains.

12. Salt River Tubing

A popular recreational activity offering opportunities to float down the Salt River in an inner tube.
  • Relaxation: Ideal for a relaxing and fun-filled day on the river.
  • Scenic Views: Offers views of the Sonoran Desert, local wildlife, and nearby mountain ranges.
  • Accessibility: Easy to access launch and landing points along the river.

13. Saguaro National Park East

A protected area offering hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities to learn about the Sonoran Desert ecosystem.
  • Scenic Drives: Features a scenic drive through the park, offering views of the desert landscape and saguaro cacti.
  • Hiking Opportunities: Offers numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels.
  • Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and guided tours focused on desert ecology, wildlife, and local history.

14. Southern Pacific Rail Trail

A multi-use trail running from Mesa to Tempe, ideal for walking, biking, and rollerblading.
  • Length: Spans approximately 26 miles from Mesa to Tempe.
  • Connectivity: Connected to other biking and walking trails in the area, making it easy to explore further.
  • Scenic Views: Provides views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert, farmlands, and local wildlife.

15. Riverview Park

A park offering a paved trail for walking and biking, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds.
  • Length: Features a 2-mile paved loop trail.
  • Amenities: Includes picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms for visitors to enjoy.
  • Scenic Views: Offers views of the Salt River and nearby mountain ranges.