Phoenix Mountain Preserve
11 miles of classic urban singletrack through the heart of Phoenix.
About This Trail
Phoenix Mountain Preserve is the classic urban mountain biking destination in the Valley, anchored by Trail 100 — the Charles M. Christiansen Memorial Trail — which runs nearly 11 uninterrupted miles from 7th Avenue to Tatum Boulevard. The preserve encompasses over 7,500 acres of protected mountains including Piestewa Peak, Shaw Butte, and North Mountain, with more than 40 miles of interconnected trails. Trail 100 is the main artery, and most riders use it as a backbone to build loops with the dozens of side trails that branch off in every direction. The terrain is the classic Phoenix mix of smooth rolling sections and ankle-snapping rocky madness — you’ll find everything from mellow packed dirt to steep, technical rock gardens. The best riding is east of Dreamy Draw, where the trail winds through a rugged landscape around Piestewa Peak with more elevation change and better scenery. There’s no entry fee, multiple trailhead parking areas have water and restrooms, and the trail can be accessed from over a dozen points. For Anthem riders, it’s a straight shot down I-17. The preserve gets busy on winter weekends, but midweek rides offer surprisingly good solitude for being smack in the middle of a metro area.
Highlights
- Trail 100 covers nearly 11 miles of uninterrupted singletrack — one of the longest continuous urban trails in the country.
- Over 40 miles of interconnected trails with options ranging from mellow cruising to seriously technical rock gardens.
- No entry fee and multiple trailheads with parking, water, and restrooms along the trail.
- Trail tunnels under major roads including the Piestewa Freeway (SR-51), keeping the ride continuous.
Riding Tips
Park at Dreamy Draw and ride Trail 100 east toward Tatum — the scenery and terrain are significantly better east of SR-51.
The Tatum Blvd. trailhead has only 6 parking spots and fills up fast — avoid it on weekends.
Trail 100 sees heavy hiker traffic in winter — keep your speed in check and announce yourself on blind corners.
Explore the side trails off Trail 100 for more technical riding — Trails 1A, 8A, and 304 are excellent intermediate-to-advanced options.
Heading to Phoenix Mountain Preserve?
Stop by Sunset Cyclery first for a pre-ride tune-up, fresh tires, or trail recommendations from people who actually ride here.