
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.