McDowell Sonoran Preserve Mountain Biking Trails

This area formerly known as Pima/Dynamite and then Browns Ranch was incorporated into the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Some of the old trails were adopted into the Preserve while others were decommissioned or re-routed. The main trailhead is Brown's Ranch at the north end of Alma School Rd. There is plentiful parking here, with water, toilets, and maps. Two more trailheads, Fraesfield off Rio Verde and Granite Mountain off 136th St, are on the east side of the area. There is another trailhead at the NE corner of Pima/Dynamite Rds (can be accessed from either road), which also has water, bathrooms, and maps (upgraded at the end of 2021). The area is multi-use, popular with hikers, runners, equestrians and MTBrs. The farther north you ride, the fewer people you will see.

As for the trails, they are remarkably different than the rest of the valley. The vast majority of the trails are buff smooth, with very few on-trail obstacles. Some technical areas exist and are clearly marked with black diamond signage, and offer rock rolls/drops of various size and difficulty, and technical climbs. There are plenty of spiky flora just off the trail, which probably represents the biggest threat to you and your bike. There is also very little elevation change in the area. The steeper climbs tend to be very short and punchy, and the longer climbs are easy and gradual--most well below 5% grade; Brown's Mountain trail is the one sustained steep climb in the area, rideable either direction. The trails tend to climb when heading toward one of the mountains in the area, and are a fun cruise when heading away. All of this adds up to a great place for beginners, kids, and significant others looking to build their skills. It is also a great single-speed destination for riders looking to avoid hike-a-bike, or for gravel bikes. Note: E-bikes are not allowed on the trails.

The setting is unspoiled Sonoran desert, with very little development nearby. Majestic Saguaros mix with huge granite boulders, with the most dramatic scenery surrounding Cholla and Granite Mountains. Due to the remoteness, come prepared with plenty of water, a bit of food, and the means to fix a flat or chain--it would be a long walk out from the north side trails.