7 Best Tucson Biking Tours Not To Miss
Are you looking for the best Tucson biking tours to join on your next visit to the Southwest? Look no further as we are sharing options from only a few hours to several days!
Tucson, Arizona, the sun-kissed haven of the Southwest, is a place we’ve had the pleasure of exploring time and time again.
It’s got mountains, cacti, and an endless stretch of roads that call out to anyone with a bike and a sense of adventure.
As frequent travelers in this desert wonderland, we’ve pedaled through the city’s most picturesque landscapes and uncovered biking tours that are, quite frankly, wheelie good.
Whether you’re a pedaling pro or just someone looking to tire yourself out (pun intended), we’ll help you steer your way to the bike tour that fits you just right.
So gear up, and let’s roll into the exciting world of cycling in Tucson!
Our Top Tucson Biking Tours
Don’t have time to read the whole article now, or want to get straight to the nitty-gritty details? Here are the best Tucson biking tours, in our opinion.
Taco Bike Tour
✔️ small group of just six
✔️ tacos…let us say again, TACOS!!
Historic Bike Tour
✔️ enjoy a leisurely ride without the rush
✔️ see the colorful adobe homes in Barrio Viejo
1/2 Day Tucson Bike Tours
These tours are only a few hours long and are a perfect add-on to a visit to Tucson, even if you have limited time.
1. Taco Bike Tour
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🚴 2.5 Hours
☘️ Our #1 pick for best Tucson biking tours
The Taco Bike Tour Tucson is perfect for tourists who need help finding the best authentic Mexican food in Tucson.
With a small group of up to six cyclists, you’ll be taken around town on a tour that will stop at local taco shops to try six different yummy tacos.
You can also opt to try a Sonoran hotdog (a city specialty) along the way.
The ride between the food stalls is a great way to burn off those calories as you enjoy the sights of Tucson.
And by the time the ride is over, you will be stuffed and ready for a nap.
Bicycles and water are included in the tour. All you need to do is show up ready to experience the deliciousness that Tucson has to offer.
📎 Tip: Who doesn’t love tacos right?! Six tacos are included in the tour; even though you might want more, we recommend you hold off. Remember you will be exercising between stops and don’t want to get a stomach cramp. Take a photo of the shop and go for a second visit instead!
We had a great time on the taco bike tour. Great way to get some exercise, see south Tucson and eat good food!
– Danielle B (More Reviews)
🌵 Saddle up and ride with us from cactus to cowboy town in our latest article, exploring the unforgettable trail from Tucson to Tombstone!
2. Historic Bike Tour
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🚴 2.25 Hours
☘️ Our #2 pick for best Tucson biking tours
The Historic Bike Tour Tucson is a great way to explore the city and learn about its history.
While biking at a relaxed pace, you will experience various parts of Tucson. From quiet neighborhoods to busy downtown streets filled with people and activity.
Groups are limited to eight guests, so you can focus on the sights without feeling rushed or crowded.
Starting at Hoff Ave, you’ll be taken around some of the city’s most iconic sights, such as Santa Cruz River, the Rattlesnake Bridge, and fascinating shrines like El Tiradito Shrine.
A favorite of many, you will cycle by colorful adobe homes in the Barrio Viejo neighborhood.
You’ll also discover some of Tucson’s hidden secrets along the way, from its Spanish settlers to bank robbers. And by the end of your tour, you’ll have a greater appreciation for the city’s rich history and culture.
Bicycles and water are included in the tour.
Lots of fun exploring Tucson’s lesser known history. Easy ride, great people, knowledgeable and humorous guide.
– Heather M (More Reviews)
➡️ Book the Historic Bike Tour
🌵 Ready to explore Tucson like a local? Click here for our 3-day tailor-made itinerary that’ll have you pedaling through the best of the desert in no time!
3. Mural Bike Tour
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🚴 2.25 Hours
The Mural Bike Tour is ideal for those interested in discovering Tucson’s vibrant art scene.
This tour takes you off the beaten path to discover some hidden gems that often go unnoticed when exploring on your own, with more than 30 hand-painted murals scattered throughout the city.
On this tour, you’ll see a variety of art styles, from small, whimsical works hidden in alleyways to huge, thought-provoking murals that adorn entire buildings.
The 8.5-mile route is mostly flat, and participants are limited to eight. This tour offers an ideal mix of exercise and leisurely sightseeing.
Bike and water are included, and the tour takes you through some of the city’s most interesting neighborhoods.
With its unique art, breathtaking views, and friendly locals, this bike tour will surely be an experience you won’t forget.
The murals were superb. Whole ride was fun Jimmy was a great guide Would do it again next time I’m down in Tucson
– Chrysanthie (More Reviews)
🌵 Curious if Tucson’s cacti ever wear snow caps? Find out if it snows in this desert oasis by checking out our frosty article here!
4. Saguaro National Park East E-Bike Tour
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🚴 3 Hours
The Saguaro National Park East E-Bike Tour allows you to experience the park’s beauty without worrying about being unable to keep up.
By using Pedego, the top electric bike in the US, you can see more of the park than you might otherwise due to fitness level or time constraints.
The tour is limited to only eight riders and will take you on the 8-mile paved route of the park’s east side.
You’ll learn all about the Sonoran Desert plants and animals in the park as you ride. On your way out, you can also stop by the visitor center to pick up a souvenir before leaving.
The e-bike is included in the tour. It makes the ride easy and relaxing, allowing you to enjoy the park’s beauty fully.
This is the perfect tour for winter when the weather in the park is cool and comfortable.
I enjoyed the frequent stops at various locals and Steve talking about each. Very informative and interesting.
– Tripadvisor reviewer (more reviews)
➡️ Book the Saguaro E-Bike Tour
🌵 Wondering if Tucson’s sun-kissed trails and vibrant culture are worth the trip? Dive into our article to discover why this desert gem should be on your must-visit list!
5. Tucson Urban Experience E-Bike Tour
Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️ | 🚴 3 Hours
The Tucson Urban Experience E-Bike Tour is the perfect way to explore downtown Tucson without breaking a sweat in the hot Southwest sun.
Using Pedego electric bikes, you can see more of the city with less effort. Experience local landmarks like the 4th Avenue District, the University of Arizona, and the Hotel Congress.
In addition to seeing some incredible urban locations around town, you will also have the chance to stop at authentic Mexican cuisine and local cafes along the way.
As you ride, you will learn about Tucson’s history and culture from your guide.
And with just eight cyclists, you will have ample opportunity to ask questions about what you see as you soar past unique areas of Tucson.
The included e-bike makes the ride smooth and enjoyable. So you can focus on seeing the sights rather than on your exercise.
➡️ Book the Tucson Urban E-Bike Tour
🌵 Looking to unwind in Tucson with a bubbly treat? Explore our curated list of hotels featuring luxurious Jacuzzis and make your stay a splash hit!
Multiple Day Tucson Cycling Tours
The subsequent Tucson cycling tours are multiple days and require more planning. You will need to reach out to these companies individually to make a reservation.
6. Tucson & Saguaro National Park Bike Tour
Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️ | 🚴 6 Days
The Tucson & Saguaro National Park Tour from Discovery Bicycle Tours provides six days of sightseeing and exploration.
You’ll visit separate areas around Tucson daily, including Catalina State Park, Colossal Cave, Saguaro National Park, Mount Lemmon, and more.
Each night you’ll stay at the same local resort, the Hacienda Del Sol, providing the convenience of relaxing and exploring each area without needing to pack up and move each morning.
🌵 Want to sleep near the giants of the desert? Check out our top picks for hotels near Saguaro National Park and wake up to a cactus sunrise!
7. Arizona Road Bike Tour
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ | 🚴 5 Days
The Arizona Road Bike Tour from Escape Adventures allows you to explore some of the most beautiful areas around Tucson by bicycle.
The 5-day tour includes visits to the Tucson Loop, Sonita (wine country), Old Spanish Trail, and Saguaro National Park, among others.
Each night you’ll stay at the same resort, allowing you to rest and relax after an active day of riding.
🌵 Desert meets sea! Discover the closest beach to Tucson in our sun-splashed guide, and let the waves call you from the cacti to the coast!
Are Bicycle Helmets Required In Tucson
Yes, bicycle helmets are required in Tucson, Az.
According to the Pima County and City of Tucson Bicycle Helmet Ordinance, all cyclists aged 18 or under must wear a properly fitted helmet while cycling.
It is not required for adults over the age of 18. But it is still highly recommended that you wear a helmet for safety reasons.
Cycling with a helmet can significantly reduce your risk of serious injury in the event of an accident.
If you have seen the effects of a brain injury, you will understand the importance of protecting yourself from one, especially in a situation where it is so easy to pop on a helmet.
🌵 Only have one day to spend with the towering giants of Saguaro? Explore our guide for making the most of a single sun-kissed day among these desert wonders!
Can You Ride An E-Bike If You Can’t Ride A Bike
It depends on what you are specifically asking.
If you have never ridden a bike before, then no, you won’t be able to ride an e-bike either. Riding an e-bike requires basic knowledge of how to operate a regular bicycle, like how to balance without falling over and how to pedal to make yourself go.
If you are unfamiliar with how to ride a bike, it is recommended that you first learn the basics before attempting to operate an e-bike.
But if you are asking because you know how to ride a bike and don’t feel comfortable doing so because you are a bit out of shape or struggle with hills, then the answer is a resounding yes.
One of the biggest reasons to try e-bikes is because the pedal assist makes riding more accessible to the average rider. So when you are struggling the most, it can help you out.
🌵 Want to catch Saguaro National Park at its towering best? Find out the perfect season to visit in our guide, tailored for cactus enthusiasts and desert wanderers alike!
Do You Still Pedal On An Electric Bike
Yes, you still need to pedal on an electric bike.
An electric bike is a regular bicycle with an electric motor that provides additional assistance when the rider pedals. The amount of aid can be adjusted and typically ranges from low to high power levels.
Although the motor makes it easier to get around and up hills, you will still need to pedal in order for the bike to move.
So while an e-bike does make things easier, it is still a great form of exercise and a fun and efficient way to get around Tucson.
🌵 Chilly cacti and desert snowflakes? Explore the unique charm of winter in Saguaro National Park in our frost-kissed guide that’s cooler than a snowman wearing sunglasses!
FAQs For Tucson Bicycle Tours
Now that you have figured out which one of the Tucson bike tours you are taking, let’s talk about some common questions surrounding biking in Tucson.
What Is The Tucson Bike Loop?
The Tucson Bike Loop is a cyclist’s paradise, featuring over 130 miles of car-free paths. It’s like a roller coaster for your bike but without the scary upside-down parts!
What Is The Most Scenic Part Of The Tucson Loop?
The most scenic part of the Tucson Loop is like a postcard come to life at the Rillito River Park. With sweeping views of mountains and lush landscapes, it’s the sort of place that’ll have your bike begging for a photo op, if only it had a camera!
What Is The “El Tour De Tucson?”
“El Tour de Tucson” is Tucson’s own Tour de France, minus the French part! It’s a major annual cycling event attracting riders from around the globe for a fun, thrilling, and slightly sweaty race.
Is Tucson Bike Friendly?
Tucson is as bike-friendly as a pair of well-worn cycling shorts. With over 700 miles of bikeways, a “Gold” rating from the League of American Bicyclists, and locals who cheer you on instead of honking, it’s a place where your bike might just want to retire one day!
Is Tucson Flat Or Hilly?
Tucson’s like that one friend who can’t make up their mind – a mix of both flat and hilly terrain. You can enjoy a relaxing ride in the valley or challenge yourself on a mountain climb. Either way, your legs are in for a conversation they won’t soon forget!
To Finish – 7 Best Tucson Biking Tours Not To Miss
With a variety of biking tours ranging from e-bike tours for hobby riders to multi-day trips for more serious athletes, there’s something for everyone in the bike-friendly city of Tucson.
Our top pick is the Taco Bike Tour. You just can’t beat riding around a beautiful city and partaking in the local delicacies at the same time.
Overall, with its bike-friendly atmosphere and beautiful landscape, Tucson is genuinely one of the best places to take a cycling vacation. Or to just spend an afternoon seeing the city from a new perspective.
So grab your helmet and hit the road with one of the many Tucson biking tours.
Interested in learning about what time of year is best for Tucson and a bike ride? While we don’t have a guide specific for Tucson itself, we do have the best seasons to see Saguaro National Park. And since the park is in Tucson, the same rules would apply!
