Explore Southern Arizona Gravel: Routes, Rides & More!

Arda

Are you ready to trade the mundane for the magnificent, the pavement for the path less traveled? Southern Arizona, with its vast network of gravel roads, stunning scenery, and a burgeoning gravel cycling scene, offers an unparalleled adventure for those seeking two-wheeled exploration.

The allure of gravel cycling, often called gravel grinding, is undeniable. It's a chance to escape the predictability of paved roads, to connect with nature, and to push your limits in a rugged, rewarding environment. Southern Arizona, with its unique blend of desert landscapes, mountain ranges, and historic routes, has become a haven for gravel enthusiasts of all levels. Here, the "chino grinder" arizona's oldest and most iconic gravel grinder has earned its reputation as the toughest gravel race in the west.

The region's appeal is further boosted by a growing community of passionate riders and organizations dedicated to sharing the experience. The "Southern Arizona Gravel Grinders" group, a public forum boasting over 2.1k members, is a testament to the popularity of this sport. They're here to help others experience the world lass gravel scene in southern arizona.

Consider this your invitation to discover the hidden gems of the region. The "Gravelmap" is a tool for finding and sharing local gravel roads for biking, gravel grinding, exploration, and more. "This website provides links to free gps tracks and information to help you plan your next adventure!"

Aspect Details
Key Features
  • Gravel Roads: Extensive network of rural back roads, totaling thousands of miles.
  • Scenery: Red rock formations, saguaro cacti, vast desert expanses.
  • Community: Active groups like Southern Arizona Gravel Grinders and Zia Rides.
  • Events: Chino Grinder, Pinewood Showdown.
  • Resources: Gravelmap, websites with GPS tracks.
Popular Areas
  • Areas around Ragged Top Mountain, San Manuel, and River Road.
  • White Mountains for the Pinewood Showdown.
  • San Rafael Valley (Border Wall Issue).
Challenges
  • Finding Gravel Rentals (e.g., Tucson is a difficult place).
  • Scary routes without guidance
  • Border wall issue in the San Rafael Valley.
Opportunities
  • Amazing scenery for Gravel racing in arizona
  • Explore new routes.
  • Meet fellow riders
Resources
  • Southern Arizona Gravel Grinders (Public Group)
  • Gravelmap.
  • Dirtyfreehub
  • Bikepacking.com
  • Zia rides

For those seeking a truly immersive gravel experience, the options are plentiful. The main route is 24.5 miles, and outbound can add another 4 mile double track option up to the west flank of Ragged Top, making a 29-mile day. Or, a gravel option from River Road and one from San Manuel can be considered, but these routes with GPS, and i've ridden them.

The terrain is gathered from fellow riders, and online resources like dirtyfreehub, bikepacking dot com, and several other resources. As you pedal along the gravel roads, youll be surrounded by wide range views of red rock formations, towering saguaro cacti, and vast expanses of desert.

The network of routes is ever-expanding, with the "Our map is an ongoing compilation of various southern arizona gravel routes totaling 3,000 or more miles shown on the google map." The regions gravel roads, are generally in good condition, offering a pleasurable ride, but remember, it is crucial to check spelling or type a new query before venturing out, you wouldnt expect google maps to get this right, for more information on google map, you can go to: Google Maps .

One compelling aspect of gravel racing in Arizona is the amazing scenery. The region presents a tapestry of landscapes that will leave you breathless. The "Zia rides is finally offering a gravel grinder!" and "After a successful first year, we are bringing the pinewood showdown back for another fun year in the forests of the white mountains." Last year saw nikki terpstra and marianne vos as winners, your chance to ride with the best.

But beyond the riding itself, Southern Arizonas gravel scene is defined by a strong sense of community. Here to help others experience the world lass gravel scene in southern arizona. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a newcomer to the sport, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere and a shared passion for adventure. Great resource for hooking up for local rides.

For those planning a trip, the availability of gravel rentals can be a challenge. Gravel rentals are damn near impossible to find in tucson. Wishing i would have went with the rei adventure center rental in phoenix.

I'm hoping someone can point me in the right direction. I have a couple of gravel bikes

The popularity of gravel cycling skyrockets around the world, the previously grassroots midwestern sport has found a home in southern arizona.

I thought id share my top five point of advice for az gravel, at least for the "I know that this is a pretty broad question, but i have a week in early february where i would like to find a car camp spot with plenty of gravel riding in the area. By car camp, i mean". Compare yours against the known mapped options on our club map (from the featured tab).

You can follow our adventures on this website and our social media platforms as we continue exploring and documenting the vast network of rural back roads throughout the state of arizona.

In this article, you'll find: A look at the routes, the community, and the races that define Southern Arizona's gravel cycling scene. Insights into planning your own gravel adventure in the region. We love to explore the back roads, and hope our adventures will inspire you to get out and get dirty!

And while you're exploring, remember to speak up in defense of outdoor recreation, environmental justice, and community protection. Now im scared to venture out on any of my planned routes.

The Chino Grinder p/b Cyclologic Arizonas Original Gravel Grinder
The Chino Grinder p/b Cyclologic Arizonas Original Gravel Grinder
March Gravel Ride of the Month Off the Grid Grinder AZ Gravel Rides
March Gravel Ride of the Month Off the Grid Grinder AZ Gravel Rides
Dirt Diggler Gravel Grinder Blue Ridge Adventures
Dirt Diggler Gravel Grinder Blue Ridge Adventures

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