The power of pedaling offers vast opportunities to explore Cochise County. Whether you’re looking for smooth asphalt highways, remote gravel roads, or exhilarating rocky trails, there are endless paths to follow. Road biking around the Sky Islands region allows you to take in the expansive landscape of southeast Arizona. If you want to be away from the pavement, there are plenty of gravel roads that take you deeper into the blended desert and grasslands. To get even closer to the rocks, trees, and wildlife of the area, mountain bike trails through forested canyons integrate you with the rich Arizona environment. Regardless of which mode you choose to travel, biking in Cochise County has many exciting experiences to offer.
When thinking of Arizona, the first thing that comes to mind may be hot, arid deserts. Venture down to the southeast, though, and you’ll find yourself in a drastically different environment. Cochise County sits at 3,000-5,000 ft in elevation, which brings in a diverse grassland and forested landscape. It also is typically between 10 and 20 degrees cooler than the weather in Phoenix, making sports like biking much more enjoyable. Even riding in the middle of the day can feel like a gratifying trek, rather than a sweaty slog. The various mountain ranges that give the Sky Islands region its name also provide shaded canyons, wooded trails, and higher elevation climbs for those looking to get out of the hot Arizona sun. If you enjoy the classic desert climate, though, you will still be able to find many open, sunny routes that give you vast views and warm weather. Whatever climate you’re looking to enjoy for a ride, you’ll be able to find here.
In addition to the beautiful and diverse landscape, there are also plenty of great towns in which to gear up for a day of biking or unwind over a well-earned meal. Whether it’s road biking through Willcox or hitting the mountain bike trails outside of Sierra Vista, you’ll be sure to find all the amenities you would need. Not only will you enjoy awesome restaurants and shops around the county, you’ll also find a community of avid cyclists and biking enthusiasts. Consider joining one of the many different races and group rides hosted in the Cochise County area, including the Willcox Flyer in September and the Sky Island Tour in October. The Texas Canyon Mountain Bike Race, also in September, is another exciting option to plug into the Arizona biking community and explore the amazing trails in the area. The newest addition to Cochise County’s bicycling tours is El Tour de Zona, a three-day tour headquartered in Sierra Vista with fun night festivals and day rides through the towns of Sierra Vista, Bisbee, and Tombstone.
Whether you’re flying or driving, traveling to Cochise County is a breeze. Interstate 10, running east to west from Florida to California, runs along the top of the county, and the Tucson airport is also a short drive from all the destinations you may be seeking. This year-round playground offers many unique trails and roads for human-powered exercise and enjoyment. No matter when you decide to tour Cochise County, there will undoubtedly be adventure waiting for you!
