EXPLORING SOUTHERN ARIZONA’S FAMOUS 130-MILE PAVED TRAIL SYSTEM
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape or enjoying an extended stay in Southern Arizona, one of the best ways to experience our stunning desert landscapes, local dining, and vibrant culture is on two wheels.
Tucson and its surrounding communities in Oro Valley and Marana are world-renowned bike-friendly destinations. At the heart of it all is the Chuck Huckelberry Loop—a paved, multi-use system spanning over 130 miles of traffic-free paths.
what’s the loop?
Named USA Today’s Best Recreational Trail, the Chuck Huckelberry Loop (known locally simply as The Loop) links together paved pathways along riverbeds, greenways, and mountain foothill paths.
Distance: Over 131 connected, car-free miles.
Terrain: Smooth, paved, flat-to-gentle grade, ideal for all skill levels - from casual cruisers and e-bike riders to experienced road cyclists.
Safety & Amenities: Completely separated from motor vehicle traffic with well-marked access points, public restrooms, water stations, and shade structures throughout.
Navigating the Trail:
[CLICK HERE] for the Pima County Official Loop Trail Map
[CLICK HERE] to use this Interactive Tucson Loop Map directly on your phone to find the entry point closest to your stay.
TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS BY REGION
Because The Loop circles through the greater metro region, guests can easily hop onto the trail from almost anywhere in Southern Arizona:
#1 North / Northwest (Oro Valley & Marana)
The Vibe: Majestic views of the Santa Catalina and Tortolita Mountains with quieter, scenic stretches.
Key Stops: Catalina State Park (great for pairing a ride with a desert hike) and the Oro Valley Marketplace for coffee and lunch stops.
#2 Central / Rillito River Park
The Vibe: Lively, social, and packed with local flavor.
Key Stops: St. Philip’s Plaza (a perfect mid-ride pitstop for coffee at REN Coffeehouse or a shaded patio lunch) and the Rillito Park Farmers Market on Sunday mornings.
#3 Santa Cruz River Park & Downtown Connection
The Vibe: Rich in history, art murals, and historic architecture.
Key Stops: Mercado San Agustín and MSA Annex (grab fresh pastries at La Estrella Bakery, coffee at Presta Coffee Roasters or Decibel Coffee Works), with seamless connections into Historic Fourth Avenue and Downtown Tucson via bike-friendly side streets.
Bike Rentals & Getting Rolling
You don't need to haul your own gear to enjoy the path. Several local outfitters make renting simple:
Tucson Loop Bike Rentals: Offer hybrid bikes, road bikes, and e-bikes with convenient pick-up/drop-off points right along the trail (including Northwest/Oro Valley and Central locations). [ Visit Website For Details → ]
Tugo Bike Share (Mercado San Agustín Station): A convenient option near the Mercado District to grab a cruiser and connect over to the nearby Santa Cruz River Park segment of The Loop. [ Visit Website For Details → ]
Bike Tucson Rentals: Located with convenient pickup points directly on The Loop, offering premium road, hybrid, and mountain bikes for casual riders and seasoned cyclists. [Visit Website For Details → ]
Essential Tips for Riding in the High Desert
Keep these quick tips in mind to stay safe, comfortable, and prepared out on the trail:
Watch the Sun: Aim for morning or late afternoon rides when temperatures are mildest and the light over the mountain ranges is gorgeous.
Hydrate Early & Often: Even on cool winter or spring mornings, the dry desert air absorbs moisture quickly. Keep two water bottles on hand or carry a hydration pack.
Know Trail Etiquette: The Loop is shared by cyclists, runners, walkers, and dog owners. Keep to the right, pass on the left, and give a friendly "on your left" or ring a bell when passing.
Tire Protection: If bringing your own bike, ensure your tires have sealant or cactus-resistant liners (goat-heads and prickles are common near trail edges).
Know E-Bike Rules: Pedal-assist e-bikes are permitted on paved portions of The Loop, making it easy to cruise up to 20–30 miles without overexertion (check out the Tucson Loop E-Bike Guide for details). [Visit Website For Details → ]
Whether you want a casual 5-mile cruise to grab morning coffee or a full-day 50-mile tour around the valley, biking The Loop is one of the absolute best ways to experience the sun, scenery, and local charm of Southern Arizona.