In the wintertime, Arizona is a paradise for motorcyclists. Take this weekend – it’s supposed be sunny and around 70 degrees here in the Valley of the Sun. Arizona motorcyclists actually tend to take the summers off, when the temperatures are over a hundred degrees – or else we stick to the towns in the higher elevations, where the temperatures range in the 80′s and 90′s. Really, though, we cram as much riding into the months of October through April as we can.
There are some fantastic, picturesque rides throughout the state, so if you’re visiting on two wheels I highly recommend that you check these routes out:
Kingman as seen from Route 66.
Historic Route 66 South of Kingman:
This ride takes you through the Black Mountains and offers spectacular views. There are a number of tight turns and curves that motorcyclists covet, plus you’ll be near Lake Havasu City, and will drive past the original London Bridge. The road starts in Kingman, AZ (about 70 miles southeast of Las Vegas, Nevada). From Kingman, look for the signs directing you to Route 66 and head soutwest towards Oatman. When you get to Oatman, continue down to Topock, and you are at the end of the route.
Sunset over Arivaca.
Arivaca Junction Ride:
Beautiful desert scenery and mountain views, only occasionally interrupted by cattle guards and cows. Sweeping turns and abrupt elevation changes make this a really fun ride. There aren’t a lot of amenities along the ride, so be sure to pack some water and a lunch. Start about an hour south of Tucson off I-19 in a town called Arivaca Junction. The route starts in Arivaca Junction as you head west out of town on W. Arivaca Road.
The Mount Lemmon Lookout.
Sky Island Ride:
This 29-mile ride goes from an elevation of 2900 feet to nearly 10,000 feet, so check local weather in the winter before heading out, as temperatures drop considerably at the higher elevations. Riders are treated to mountain, valley, and canyon views, leading up to the very top of Mount Lemmon. There are lots of steep curves and sweepers, too. Start your route at the intersection of Catalina Hwy and Tanque Verde Road in Northeast Tucson. Head northeast, enjoy the curves and scenery, and keep going until you reach the small town of Summerville.
Cathedral Rock in Sedona.
Cottonwood Canyon Run:
The road between Sedona and Wickenburg is one of the prettiest rides in Arizona. You’ll pass through the towns of Cottonwood, Prescott, and Congress along the way. The road is smooth overall, though twisty and with increases and decreases in elevation that will cause you to mind your brakes. Passing through Cottonwood Canyon itself is a treat you don’t want to miss. There are plenty of amenities along the way, plus picnic and hiking opportunities. From Phoenix take US-60 to Wickenburg. At the first Wickenburg light, turn north onto State Route 93. Drive 7 miles to the Route 89 junction and travel north. Follow into Prescott and turn onto E. Gurley. Follow Route 89 five miles out of Prescott, then turn east on 89A – you will pass through Jerome. Once you have entered Cottonwood, you may either continue your trip through Sedona, or follow the signs to I-17 via State Route 260.
Happy riding!
Photo Credits (in order of appearance):
- “Kingman from Route 66″ by Clinton Steeds on Flickr Creative Commons.
- “Tucson Sunset” by SearchNetMedia on Flickr Creative Commons.
- “Mount Lemmon Lookout” by 666 Is Money on Flickr Creative Commons.
- “Cathedral Rock in Sedona” by Gavin M Roy on Flickr Creative Commons.
