Basics
- Length:
- 3 - 12 miles
- Aerobic Difficulty:
- Moderate to Advanced
- Time To Allow:
- 1 - 2 hours
- Season:
- All Year
Description
Located within McDowell Mountain Park, just 25 miles from metro Phoenix, the Cactus Cup Loop trails are sure to become a favorite of any intermediate to advanced level mountain biker. Built with the mountain biker in mind, the Cactus Cup Loops are among the few Phoenix area trails that are designated for mountain biking only.
Three different loops comprise the Cactus Cup system, ranging in difficulty from intermediate to expert. The longest of the three, aptly named Long Loop, consists of 6 miles of intermediate level singletrack with challenging climbs and descents etched through the desert landscape. The Sport Loop is 3 miles long and is the fastest of the three tracks, allowing for race speed riding through moderately technical terrain. The Tech Loop is the burliest of the three tracks, cuts through 3 miles of boulder-choked singletrack as the trail crests T-Bone ridge.
The Cactus Cup Loops can be combined to create longer or shorter rides and more difficult or less difficult rides. In addition, the Cactus Cup Loops may be mixed with other rides in the McDowell Mountain Park proper.
Details
Length:
Length varies on which loop is taken. Sport loop is 3 miles, Long Loop is 6 miles. Tech Loop is 3 miles.
Difficulty:
Aerobic Difficulty:
Time To Allow:
Season:
Additional Details:
McDowell Mountain Regional Park currently requires a $2 entrance fee. Remember when riding in the desert to bring a well-stocked repair kit and plenty of water, due to the harsh nature of this environment.