Did you know that Tucson is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country? We have the best trails and the best roads for bikes, and we even have a bike-friendly resort going up. As of June 2022, the City of Tucson is adding numerous more bike boulevards across several neighborhoods. But we think it all starts with The Loop. What is it, you ask? It’s a 130-mile shared-use path that goes through Tucson, South Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, and unincorporated Pima County.
When we say shared use, we pretty much mean everything except cars. Bikes, skates, scooters, and even horseback riding can all take place simultaneously on the Chuck Huckleberry Loop. There are so many amazing things to see while in Tucson’s great outdoors it may be difficult to decide where you want to start. There are more than 50 (mostly free) parking lots along The Loop that allow access, so check out the official map to figure out which is closest to you.
In 2021 the Loop was rated America’s #1 recreational trail by USA Today!
Need a Bike?
If you don’t have a bike, don’t worry! There are plenty of bike rental shops in both Oro Valley and Tucson to choose from. Tucson also has a Tugo bike share. For example, if you go to Mercado San Agustin or MSA Annex you’ll find the stations along the side and back of the buildings. Tugo actually has 40 bike stations across 13 Tucson neighborhoods with over 300 bikes available! Pretty much no matter where you find yourself, you can also find a bike.
If you already have a bike or are looking to pick a new or used one up, there are plenty of options to choose from! Both Transit Cycles and BICAS are focused on fixing up the bikes you already own. BICAS even has a work for trade program if you’re a little low on cash. You won’t find an inventory list on either website due to the high turnover on what comes in and out of these shops.
If you’re looking for something shiny and new, there is no shortage of shops. Sabino Cycles, Bicycle Ranch Tucson, and Tucson Endurance Performance Center have all got you covered. From minor repairs to custom builds, they can do it all. Are you looking for something close to home? Don’t worry. There are literally too many bike shops to list, but if you do a quick internet search, you are absolutely guaranteed to find something in your area!
Hiking
From The Loop, you also have access to dozens of gorgeous hiking trails. We’re particularly fond of the Rillito River Park Trail, Santa Cruz River Park Trail (which connects to the Anza National Historic Trail), and Tumamoc Hill for those that like to climb stubbornly uphill.
For other great hikes, you can find more here.
Public Art
Tucson is known for its many beautiful murals, but you can also find tons of other public artworks along The Loop. Sculptures and murals can be found along with architectural elements that have been designed with public art in mind.
This is all thanks to both private donors as well as the Pima County Board of Supervisors, who have long supported the Tucson Public Art Project. To see a full list of what you can find and where check out the official Art on the Loop Map provided by the county!
Did you know that Tucson has 4 designated “Bat Bridges?” Three of them can be found on the Loop! You’ll know when you find them due to the large sculptures of bats on bikes. If you’re around at sundown, you can catch a spectacular show of them leaving the roost.
Safety
Tucson is beautiful, but the heat can at times be quite brutal. The city has a great pamphlet on bicycle safety. But here are some of the basics.
Make sure that you bring plenty of water with you. In fact, bring twice as much water as you think you need. If you’re going out alone, be sure to tell a friend where you’re going and when you plan on being back. In fact, during the summer months, you should go out before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m.
Watch out for wildlife and give them wide berth. It’s not uncommon to run across javelina, coyotes, and wildcats along The Loop. It was their home first, so please treat the wildlife with the reverence they deserve.
Cyclists should bring some sort of tool kit with them in case of malfunction or breakdown. You don’t want to be stuck out in the heat for long. Make sure you have identification just in case.
Please keep in mind that the Loop is accessible to everybody. Don’t ride at frightening speeds and defer to giving those with disabilities that right of way.
Bringing a furry friend? All dogs need to be on a leash less than 6 feet long and be of good temperament. This also goes for horses on the Loop. Not the leash, the temperament.
Additional Guidelines
- The Loop is closed at night.
- Alcohol not allowed
- Leave no trace, take your litter
- No destruction of Pima County property
- Stay to the right and pass on the left.
- Don’t stop or block the paths.
We hope you enjoy your time on The Loop, let us know if there’s anything you think should be added!
Have a great day!
Tony Ray
