Brown's Ranch Loop

One of the most popular cross country loops in McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

Mountain Biking Moderate

Distance: 24 km
Ascent: 248 m
Descent: 248 m
Duration: 1-2 hrs

Low Point: 807 m
High Point: 892 m
Gradient: 1˚

Brown's Ranch Loop is one of the most logical and easy-to-follow cross country loops in the expansive McDowell Sonoran Preserve. While this loop is only 15 miles long, you can easily spend all day riding here! "Scottsdale is home to 200 plus miles of trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve ALONE with trails ranging from beginner through to advanced," writes outdoor blogger Leigh McAdam.

Photo from Brown's Ranch Loop — Photo: Terry Ballard

Description

Brown's Ranch is a non-technical cross country trail with a surface consisting of "crushed granite and compacted soil," according to McAdam. The trail rolls through the wide-open desert landscape, with delightful swoop and flow along most of its length. In many places, the trail tread has widened dramatically, so remember to do your best to keep singletrack single whenever possible.

In a few places, the trail swings through some beautiful rock formations, especially near Granite Mountain. "Balanced Rock" is a popular spot to stop for a snack and to soak in the views of the Sonoran Desert.

Sources: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrZAfMgBUEI https://hikebiketravel.com/mountain-biking-in-scottsdale-at-browns-ranch/

Difficulty

Moderate

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability, with unavoidable obstacles 8in/20cm tall or less. Other obstacles such as rock gullies and steep sections may exist. Ideal for lower intermediate riders.