Family Friendly Fun on Phoenix Bike Trails
Year-round sunshine and warm weather make Phoenix an outdoor enthusiasts dream. Make sure you are passing down your love for cycling and the outdoors by sharing them with the whole family. Hamax products are made to safely support your children on paved roads, dirt paths, and even gravel trails. The suspension built into each and every Hamax bike seat and trailer ensures a smooth ride for your little one. If you’re looking to get out of the house and find a trail you haven’t tried before, look no further. We’ve put together our top 6 Phoenix bike trails that the whole family will enjoy.
1. Papago Park
Just 10 minutes from downtown Phoenix this park features world-class natural attractions as well as the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden. Several trails wind through the park ranging from paved trails to loose rocks perfect for mountain biking. The two easiest loops are roughly 3 miles each and have little to no elevation change. The Crosscut Canal Path also runs along the Eastern edge of the park and follows the entire length of the canal. Plan your route using this park map from the Parks and Recreation department. Make sure to bring your camera as the sights in this park are sure to delight!
2. Arizona Canal Path
One of the longest multi-use trails in Maricopa County the Arizona Canal Path is almost 70 miles from end to end. Much of the path is paved, although some portions are packed gravel. If you’re able to visit downtown Scottsdale off the path, make sure to stop at the Soleri Bridge. The canal provides a flat route for bikers of all ages and abilities. And – there is little to no traffic so you can enjoy time with your family instead of watching for cars. Pick your distance and get out there for a ride today!
3. Dreamy Draw Bikeway
This paved trail runs for 2.1 miles and passes through the Dreamy Draw Recreation Area providing access to plenty of hiking trails as well. The bikeway begins in a residential area along N 32nd St. Check out this map for a full overview of the route. While the Dreamy Draw Bikeway offers amazing views, there is not much shade available. Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and water when biking in this area. Shelters and restrooms are provided at the trailhead in the Recreation Area.
4. Indian Bend Wash Trail
The Indian Bend Wash trail runs along the banks of the Indian Bend Wash between Scottsdale and Tempe. The paved trail is just over 6 miles long and connects several parks and schools. Roughly mid-trail is the Eldorado Park which is 60-acres and offers a swimming pool, fishing lake, skate park, playgrounds, and many more activities for families. A perfect place to let the kiddos out of their Outback bike trailer or child bike seat. The Indian Bend Wash trail also helps to connect the Rio Salado Path to the Arizona Canal Path. Bring a picnic along, and enjoy a leisurely ride with a fun lunch stop.
5. Scottsdale Green Belt
In the heart of Scottsdale, a trail runs through a belt of greenery for just under 13 miles. While not technically in Phoenix, this path was too good not to include with our favorite Phoenix bike trails! The trail is paved and wide enough for all visitors whether they are walking, biking, roller skating, or pushing a stroller. The many tunnels help pedestrians cross the road while avoiding traffic. You’ll pass several playgrounds and parks along the way so make sure to bring a picnic for the kiddos and some bread for the ducks.
6. Murphy’s Bridle Path
At just over 1 mile this quick out and back path is perfect for beginners or those with older siblings that might be riding their own bikes. The path is packed dirt and runs alongside the Arizona Canal Diversion Channel. The well-preserved dome of trees provides shade for walkers, bikers, and runners on even the most extreme summer days. Murphy’s Bridle Path celebrated it’s 120th birthday in 2015 and is still providing locals and visitors alike with a perfect place to get out and exercise. Fido is allowed although he must stay on a leash while using the path.
Now that you’ve seen our favorite Phoenix bike trails, pick one your family will enjoy. Then grab your Hamax gear and the kiddos and head out for an afternoon full of sightseeing and trailblazing.
