15.1 miles
Distance
1,008 ft
Climb
-1,009 ft
Descent
3,668 ft
High Point
-1 ft
Altitude change
3,234 ft
Altitude min
3,235 ft
Altitude start
3,235 ft
Altitude end
-25.4%
Grade max
20.3%
Grade min
6 miles
Distance climb
6 miles
Distance down
3 miles
Distance flat

This is a nice loop that combines some easy desert pedaling and the beautiful Colossal Cave sections of the AZT.

Detailed Description
Vail Vortex is a 15 mile moderately popular intermediate route located near Vail Arizona. This mountain bike only route. This route includes 8 trails. This route climbs 1,008 ft with a max elevation of 3,668 ft then descends -1,009 ft.
Local Trail Association
Local trail association
Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists (www.sdmb.org)
Please consider joining or donating to the local riding association to support trail development & maintenance.
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Stats

  • Distance
    15 miles
  • Altitude change
    -1 ft
  • Altitude min
    3,234 ft
  • Altitude start
    3,235 ft
  • Altitude end
    3,235 ft
  • Climb
    1,008 ft
  • Descent
    -1,009 ft
  • Grade max
    -25.4%
  • Grade min
    20.3%
  • Distance climb
    6 miles
  • Distance down
    6 miles
  • Distance flat
    3 miles

1 Review & Comments


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Trails in Route

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  • Primary Activity
    Mountain Bike
  • Difficulty rating
    Blue
  • eBike Allowed
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    Recent Trail Reports Along Route

    statustraildateconditiondescription
    Tight & Twisty
    May 23, 2026 @ 9:04am (America/Phoenix)
    May 23, 2026
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    Mar 31, 2026 @ 7:24am (America/Phoenix)
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    Mar 31, 2026 @ 7:24am (America/Phoenix)
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    AZT/C - Ranch Link
    Mar 19, 2026 @ 7:49am (America/Phoenix)
    Mar 19, 2026
    Love this section, I did it south to north two days in a row, so figured I’d try reverse. Still fun, but like the preferred direction best.
    Coyote Canyon
    Mar 19, 2026 @ 7:49am (America/Phoenix)
    Mar 19, 2026
    Love this trail, very flowy and fast, green single track is great when well made and these ones are so fun. Normally a blue trail girl. definitely the best direction.
    more reports »
    • By twowheeledwandererTF Pro & contributors
    • #55113 - 2,546 views

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