Biking

Mount Lemmon is one of the premier biking destinations in the Southwest, offering both legendary road climbs and world-class mountain biking trails. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist looking for a challenge, or a mountain biker chasing forest singletrack, the mountain has miles of routes to explore.

Road Biking

The ride up the Catalina Highway to Mount Lemmon has become famous in the cycling community—a 26-mile ascent that climbs over 6,000 feet from the Tucson desert floor to the cool alpine forests near Summerhaven. Known as one of the toughest road climbs in North America, it’s a true bucket-list ride for cyclists, offering dramatic changes in scenery as you pass through multiple ecosystems on your way to the summit. For those not tackling the full climb, shorter sections near the top around Summerhaven and Ski Valley still offer rewarding rides with cooler temperatures and stunning vistas.

Mountain Biking

The trails around Mount Lemmon offer something for every rider, from smooth forest paths to technical descents through granite and pine. Here are a few of the area’s best-loved routes:

• Aspen Draw Trail – A local favorite, this downhill trail drops from the top of Ski Valley through shady aspen groves. Smooth, fast, and flowy, it’s perfect for riders who enjoy alpine singletrack.
• Bug Springs Trail – One of the more technical trails on the mountain, Bug Springs delivers steep drops, rock gardens, and thrilling challenges. It’s a must for advanced riders.
• Green Mountain Trail – A mix of technical and flowy terrain, Green Mountain offers rocky sections, switchbacks, and forest riding that keeps things interesting start to finish.
• Prison Camp (a.k.a. Molino Basin Trail) – Famous among Tucson riders, this trail features fast sections with jumps and drops. It’s a playground for skilled riders looking for variety.
• Meadow & Mount Bigelow Trails – Gentle climbs and alpine meadows make this a great choice for intermediate riders seeking cooler temps and expansive views.
• La Milagrosa Trail – A challenging, rocky descent that rewards skilled riders with technical features and sweeping desert views. It’s one of the most epic rides in the Catalinas.

From the grueling road climb that’s tested Tour de France riders to shady single-track weaving through aspen groves, Mount Lemmon is a cycling destination unlike any other. Bring your bike, your sense of adventure, and prepare for a ride to remember.

If you don’t have your bike, not to worry, there are several places in Tucson that rent them, including Lemmon Bike Rentals. 

Click here to be directed to TrailForks for more detailed information on some of the Mt. Bike Trails.