Quick ride by bicycle from Tucson to Catalina Foothills

Ready for a scenic ride? Start your journey in downtown Tucson, a city famous for its lively arts scene, historic flair, and delicious tacos. Heading north, this roughly 11-kilometer route is mostly on quiet roads and cycleways—perfect for a mellow cruise.

You'll glide past residential neighborhoods, catching glimpses of the Catalina Mountains as they get bigger with every pedal stroke. The ascent is gentle—just enough to get your heart going, but nothing too daunting—making it accessible for most riders. Most of the route is paved or asphalt, so it's pretty smooth rolling, though there are a few stretches where the surface is less defined. Keep an eye out for desert blooms and perhaps a roadrunner or two!

Your destination is the Catalina Foothills, a chic suburb known for its stunning mountain views, upscale shopping, and lush desert landscapes. When you arrive, treat yourself to a coffee or snack at one of the cafes—after all, you’ve earned it!