Road Cycling Mount Graham: Arizona’s Steepest and Most Difficult Ride
The climb is steep, long, and only recommendable for those cyclists who are in great condition. Mount Graham’s cycling route uphill is in a continuous zig-zag, and because of this and the steep incline it has been labelled one of the top 15 toughest climbs in the U.S. according to the book “A Guide to Cycling, Climbing, and the Most Difficult Climbs in the United States.” You climb 5,981 feet in 20 miles!
Because this is the toughest bike climb in all of Arizona, professionals from the state and country train here regularly. On a usual day, you can run into The University of Arizona Cycling Team while they’re training.
If you’re a professional and are ready to try your skills, this Arizona road cycling route waits for you! But we do have some warnings to heed your way: be careful with the downhill ride, as there are inconsistencies in the road, and come prepared as there are no bike shops nearby.
What The Bike Bandit Says…
“Mount Graham is indeed a tough, intense uphill ride. Many of us shy away from it because the road in parts is a bit iffy. I prefer Mount Lemmon because of the consistency of the road.”
Jason, The Bike Bandit
Road Biking Mount Graham: BikeTucson.com Rents and Delivers Road Bikes
Ready to brace the road but have no bike? Not a problem! Tucson Bike Rentals and Tours delivers and picks up carbon rental road, mountain, hybrid, and kid bikes to all of Oro Valley and the greater Tucson area. We are the official Tucson, Arizona, bicycle guiding and rental arm for the Arizona Bicycle Association. As an added bonus, and because we love cycling and love safe biking, all cyclists that rent a bike with us receive free helmets and maps. When cycling Tucson, we recommend you only rent from the best!
Mountain Bike Tucson! — Bike Delivery to Mountain Cycling Trails
There is a two-rider minimum for all bike deliveries, but don’t let that rule deter you. We’re super chill with all other requirements and requests you have (well, most of them anyways!). You can bike for 1 to 5 hours, finish riding whenever you want, and we pick up the bikes. No need to worry about loading mountain bikes in your rental car.
Price is generally $100 per bike– depending on the location of the trailhead. Don’t know where to ride, and Mount Graham seems too hard for you to try just yet? Don’t worry, BikeTucson.com offers other routes and group rides that range from beginner to intermediate and advanced. Cyclists of all the spectrum can have a great adventure in Arizona! Click here for more information about our services.