U.S. Bike Route 90, a new Bicycle Route Through Arizona Includes a Highway 80 Segment

Bicycling in southern Arizona and specifically around the San Simon Valley and the Chiricahua mountains is a great way to experience the landscape.  The open air, the 360 degree views, the slower pace all allow one to experience the area that is not possible in a vehicle.  In the past bicycle groups have visited the area staying in Rodeo at both Mountain Valley Lodge and the Painted Pony Resort during their trips.  Lizard Head Cycling Guides and Bubba's Pampered Peddlers have both stayed at the Painted Pony Resort when cycling in the southwest or on a coast to coast tour.  To spread the information about the potential of scenic cycling routes in the area, published routes were collected and posted as reference material to highlight the potential for cycling adventures in and around the Chiricahua Mountains.

Well things have continued to improve with reference to bicycle routes in the area.  The State of Arizona has just designated a new cycling route across the state which includes Rodeo and the surviving segment of Highway 80 that runs through the valley, see here.  This bicycle route is part of a nation wide effort to create bike routes across the United States.  U.S. Bike Route 90, the Arizona segment, will connect with other state routes creating bicycle friendly routes across the nation.  Arizona's newest bicycle route will be a welcomed addition for visitors to the area.

Guests bicycling at the Painted Pony Resort.

U.S. Bike Route 90, Arizona's bicycle route segment from Rodeo to Blythe

The Highway 80 segment of U.S. Bike Route 90 runs from Tombstone to Rodeo

Cycling around Portal Rodeo and the Chiricahua Mountains

One of the best ways to see the local sights is slow and in the out in the open and cycling is one way to achieve this goal.  Ranging from 30 to 200 km in length there is a ride for every skill level in the area ranging from open high desert rides to treks through the Chirichaua Mountains.   Below is a compilation of bike route maps available to those interested in some cycling.

Portal Cave Creek Paradise loop

Portal Community Rodeo loop

Portal to Fort Bowie loop

Portal Chiricahua Mountains loop

Portal to Paradise loop

Portal through Lava Douglas loop

Coronado National Forest Mountain biking trails
Red Rock Canyon Trail #223