Monday, 07 February 2022 10:06

On the Trails – Winter Trails in Arizona

I’m thankful to live in Boulder, CO where the winters are mild and the skiing in the mountains is close but a couple times a year I need to get out and visit somewhere warm. The first adventure escape this year was a mountain bike trip to Scottsdale AZ. Smaller than Phoenix, Scottsdale has everything you need for a winter getaway. This town is pedestrian friendly and has an abundance of breweries and taphouses for apres adventure. It promises year round sunshine and a landscape filled with desert mountains and saguaro cactus. 

We were able to rent top quality mountain bikes from REI Co-op Experiences and ride right out their door on the first day. Since we couldn’t fit the bikes in our rental car we had REI transport our bikes to the trailhead the next couple of days and it was reasonably priced. The trails we rode were part of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. With lots of parking, luxurious bathrooms, boasting more than 35,000 acres and 215 miles of trails, this area is perfect for both mountain bikers and runners. Most of the trails are flowy and smooth. They tend to get green or blue ratings but with so many miles to choose from, you can find something for everyone. My favorite was West Express for the downhill. All of the whoop-de-dos. It’s best to grab a map at the start or have an app to help you navigate through the maze of trails. With temperatures hanging out in the 60s and 70s this area makes for a perfect getaway. Our next “snowbird” winter getaway? Paddling in the Everglades…