Desert Classic Trail
The easiest trail in the South Mountain Trail System makes for the perfect after work cross country ride.
Moderate Mountain Biking
- Distance
- 28 km
- Ascent
- 419 m
- Descent
- 419 m
Looking for miles and miles of non-technical singletrack? Phoenix has that in spades!
Mountain Biking Easy, Moderate, Difficult
The mountain bike scene in the Phoenix Metro Area is as diverse as it is geographically dispersed. All around the outskirts of this sprawling metropolis you'll discover singletrack riding of all types, from flowy cross country trails to steep, technical test pieces. In this guidebook, we've rounded up some of the mellowest—yet most rewarding—singletrack trails for cross country mountain biking.
The cross country riding in the region is anchored by McDowell Mountain Park. This exceedingly popular mountain bike trail system is a hit with locals and visitors alike. The conveniently-located campground with easy access to miles and miles of singletrack in one of the warmest cities in the country creates the perfect recipe for a mid-winter training getaway!
While technically the Brown's Ranch trails in McDowell Sonoran Preserve are located in a different regional park, you can still pedal there on singletrack from McDowell Mountain.
The Hawes Trail System is also located on this side of town, but even the far side of Phoenix is home to some delightful XC trails at FINS.
Finally, while South Mountain is best-known for its tech riding, you can score a lengthy cross country pedal on the Desert Classic Trail, or even get a beginner started on the bite-sized Corona Loop. The options truly are endless!
The easiest trail in the South Mountain Trail System makes for the perfect after work cross country ride.
Moderate Mountain Biking
Mellow pedal on mountain bike-optimized singletrack.
Easy Mountain Biking
A sleeper hit in the Phoenix Metro Area.
Difficult Mountain Biking
One of the most popular cross country loops in McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Moderate Mountain Biking
One of the best cross country loops at McDowell Mountain Park.
Moderate Mountain Biking
The perfect beginner mountain bike ride.
Easy Mountain Biking
A beautiful beginner-friendly loop that sees much less traffic than the Pemberton Loop.
Moderate Mountain Biking
A combination of smooth dirt singletrack and gravel paths creates a fun XC loop through Usery Mountain Park.
Easy Mountain Biking
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