5 Entertaining Beginner MTB Trails in Tucson, Arizona

Many desert mountain bike destinations are renowned for the technical challenge of their trails. Rides such as Hangover, Portal, and Horsethief Bench are famous the world over for their incredibly-difficult rock challenges. And while you can find some challenging trails to ride in Tucson, you can also choose to pedal mile upon mile of flowy, beginner-friendly singletrack.

Tucson is a fantastic destination for beginner mountain bikers looking to enjoy the Sonoran desert's beauty without brutalizing themselves on fields of boulders. All around the outskirts of the city, you'll find networks of sandy singletrack on mellow grades that offer views of beautiful cacti with majestic mountains towering high above.

The Big Wash Trail in the Honeybee-X Trail System might be one of the mellowest but most enjoyable beginner rides ever. The best saguaro views around can be found on the Desperado Trail in Sweetwater Preserve. Fantasy Island is an iconic Tucson ride that is still accessible to beginners. While it's the longest trail on this list, the route can definitely be shortened. Or for a shorter and easier ride at Fantasy Island, try the Bunny Loop to the south. Finally, to escape the crowds near the city, cross over to the other side of the Tucson mountains for the narrow singletrack on the Ironwood Loop.

And these are just the highlights. Tucson offers many more beginner-friendly mountain bike trails to explore, so you'd better get pedaling!