Patagonia to Canelo loop (Patagonia 80) — Gravel — Santa Cruz County

The route predominantly follows unpaved county and forest service roads. You'll encounter sections of well-graded gravel, but also some rougher dirt roads, especially on parts of Canelo Pass Road. Be prepared for potentially bumpy and rocky sections. Harshaw Creek Road, however, is generally smooth and wide.

Given the varied terrain, including potentially rough and rocky sections, it's highly recommended to use a gravel bike with wider tires. A minimum of 35mm tires is suggested, with 40mm+ preferred. A tubeless setup is also advisable to prevent flats from sharp rocks and occasional cactus spikes.

This challenging route, covering approximately 124 kilometers (77 miles) with significant elevation gain, typically takes around 11 hours of riding time. However, your total time will vary depending on your fitness level, pace, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

No, the Patagonia to Canelo loop is officially rated as a "Hard gravel ride" and requires very good fitness. It features challenging climbs throughout, and some portions might even necessitate pushing your bike. It is not recommended for beginners.

You'll experience a breathtaking "sky island ecosystem" with rolling hills, arid landscapes, and expansive vistas, including the wide-open prairies of the San Rafael Valley. Harshaw Creek Road offers views through a narrow, steep-walled valley with a seasonal creek. The region is a unique blend of Sonoran cactus desert and Chihuahuan desert grasslands. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as katamundi, antelope, and javelina.

Yes, the route passes through several interesting spots. You'll go through the town of Patagonia, pass by the historic Harshaw Townsite, and ride near the Hermosa Mine Project. There are also great views like the View of Parker Canyon Lake and an Incredible view of the San Rafael Valley.

While specific parking details aren't provided, the loop typically starts and ends in or around the town of Patagonia, Arizona. Look for public parking options within the town or designated trailhead parking areas nearby.

This route traverses parts of the Coronado National Forest. Generally, day-use permits are not required for activities like gravel biking on established roads within the forest. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Coronado National Forest website for any current regulations or specific area restrictions before your ride.

The best time to ride this loop is typically during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring (October to April), to avoid the intense summer heat of Arizona. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and potentially blooming desert flora, while fall provides comfortable riding conditions.

While many parts of the Coronado National Forest are dog-friendly, specific regulations can apply to certain trails or areas. Given the length, difficulty, and remote nature of this particular gravel route, it might be challenging for most dogs. If you do bring a dog, ensure they are well-conditioned for long distances and always keep them on a leash, especially due to potential wildlife encounters and shared roads.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it crosses sections of the Arizona Trail, including the Arizona Trail #3 Canelo Hills Wast and Arizona Trail #2 Canelo Hills East. You'll also encounter parts of the Sky Islands Traverse and other local forest service roads.