Southwest Treasures Newsletter- Celebrating the diversity, magic, mystery, culture and history of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah!

March 18, 2025-This weeks post is about five fabulous biking trails

Along the Paseo del Bosque Trail, NM

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Hello There Reader

Spring is on the way and it's time to bring our bicycles back out and enjoy the breeze in our hair and the magnificent views that only riding a bike offers.

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Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona

Known as “The Loop,” to Tucson cyclists. The Saguaro National Park biking is one of the most popular bike rides in the Tucson area. This spectacular circuit on the east side of Tucson winds through a cactus forest to the base of the Rincon Mountains.

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Beautiful desert vegetation and occasional wildlife are seen, so watch out for deer, bunnies and javalina particularly early in the morning.

You can start anywhere in Tucson to add mileage to this easy ride.

Also doing multiple laps is the way to go with the average time about 30 minutes for each lap, which can add up to 20 miles one way with an elevation gain of about 648 feet.

NOTE: The Saguaro National Park is a national park and does require a small $ fee to enter the park. Paying the fee is worth the ride!

​Click to check out More bike trails​ in​ Arizona​

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Platte River Trail in Denver, Colorado

This 28. 5 mile trail is mostly concrete and starts in Thornton on the north end and ends in South Denver. Trail follows the Platte River. Spring and fall are the best times for biking. In summer, early mornings make for the best trail conditions. The winter weather is unpredictable, but many days are still awesome those who are well prepared and dress in layers.

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With the Rockies in the backdrop and the smooth trail ahead of you, you can roll into Denver for lunch before heading north toward Henderson into high plains.

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The river ride turns into the Mary Carter Greenway, which continues to Chatfield State Park. From there, it connects to the five other cool trails. In between: cafes, botanical gardens and lots of parks.

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Info: Things to do​ in​ Denver​

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Breckenridge to Frisco in Colorado

Now, if you want to bike in the rocky mountains and take in some awesome views, then check out Vail Pass Summit trail.

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The ride to the summit is 24 miles and 1550′ of climb round trip from the Frisco Marina or Frisco’s west Main St. parking lot.

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Riding from Breckenridge adds about 18 miles and 500′ of additional climb, mostly a relatively gentle grade from Frisco back to Breckenridge.

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The ride becomes difficult toward the top of the pass with 3 relatively steep, short switchbacks, but is a moderate climb from Frisco to Copper.

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Visit, Summit Biking for more information.

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Provo River Parkway in Provo Utah

Fifteen miles of meandering along the Provo River in Utah Lake State Park are available towards the mouth of Provo Canyon that picks up a slight gradual incline.

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Some short, steep climbs make it challenging at times, but its well-worth it. The reward: Bridal Veil Falls. The rushing water, which drops 600+ feet through a double cascade, is the perfect escape.

Info:Utah Mountain Biking​

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​Paseo del Bosque Trail in New Mexico

Albuquerque’s premiere multi-use trail, the Paseo del Bosque Trail, goes from the north to the south edges of the metro area through the Rio Grande’s cottonwood bosque (forest).

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You can ride uninterrupted for 15 miles of paved multi-use trails. This trail is within minutes of downtown and other road routes throughout the area. In 2008, Sunset magazine ranked the Paseo del Bosque trail No. 1 for Top City Bike Rides.

Restrooms: Only formal restroom facilities currently available on the trail are located at the Alameda access on the southeast side of the Alameda Blvd. bridge.

You May Also Enjoy:

​RVing in Southwestern New Mexico – Part 3

​Two Picnicking Spots You Want to Check out This Summer​

​Discover Zapata Falls- An Easy Hike for the Whole Family ​

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One last thing: I finally finished my book about the Northeastern part of Arizona!

There are 200 miles of hiking trails for everyone to enjoy in every season. From the lowlands to the highest peak, which is Mt. Baldy.

57 natural fishing lakes with a wide assortment of wildlife. Bear, elk, deer and lion has been spotted on many occasions as well as smaller wildlife.

In the towns of Showlow, Pinetop-Lakeside, Springerville and Greer, you will find plenty of places to stay overnight, whether you are camping, RVing or just want a nice cabin.

Plus--->Folklore tales and cultural events for every season.

Check it out now! Guide Into the White Mountains of Arizona/Popular Hikes and Lakes From Showlow to Springerville​

If you like what you are learning and reading about, please share with family and friends. Till next time!