Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Brawling Badger Trail
Mountain biking
5.0
(11)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
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Tips
January 19, 2020
Mountain biking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Brawling Badger Trail
4.8
(5)
42
riders
23.8km
01:58
110m
110m
Embark on an easy mountain biking adventure through the Phoenix Sonoran Preserve with the Apache Wash and Brawling Badger Loop. This route offers a quintessential Sonoran Desert experience, winding past impressive cactus gardens and providing expansive views of the landscape, dotted with numerous Saguaro cacti. You will cover 14.8 miles (23.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 367 feet (112 metres), making it a perfect ride for beginners or anyone seeking a relaxed outing, typically completed in about 1 hour and 58 minutes.
For your visit, the Apache Wash Trailhead provides convenient access with ample parking and restroom facilities. Remember that this is a multi-use trail, so you will encounter hikers, runners, and horses; always yield to horses. Be mindful of the monsoon season, as certain sections, particularly the sandy washes, can become impassable due to water, so check conditions before you go.
This loop is an excellent introduction to mountain biking in the Sonoran Desert, offering a mix of hard-packed dirt, some gravely stretches, and occasional sandy washes where the trail crosses dry riverbeds. It's an ideal choice if you are looking to build confidence on your bike while immersing yourself in the unique desert ecosystem, characterized by its diverse flora and open vistas.
5.0
(1)
10
riders
30.7km
02:46
400m
400m
Get ready to mountain bike the Badger Sidewinder Ocotillo Loop, a moderate route that takes you deep into the classic Sonoran Desert landscape. You'll navigate through hills dotted with iconic cholla and saguaro cacti, experiencing the unique atmosphere of this arid region. The Ocotillo trail section is particularly vibrant when its namesake flowers are in bloom, adding splashes of fiery red to the scenery. This engaging ride covers 19.1 miles (30.7 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 1324 feet (403 metres). Expect to complete the loop in about 2 hours and 46 minutes, enjoying panoramic 360-degree views that stretch all the way to distant landmarks like Camelback Mountain and Four Peaks.
When planning your mountain biking trip on this loop, remember that the trail system is multi-use, so you will be sharing the path with hikers and trail runners. Practicing good trail etiquette is essential for everyone's enjoyment and safety. Be aware that shade is very limited along the route, and there is no water available at the trailheads. It is crucial to carry plenty of hydration to stay safe in the desert environment. The best time to ride this trail is between October and May, when temperatures are milder and more favorable for outdoor activity.
This loop offers a quintessential Sonoran Desert experience, showcasing the region's unique flora and expansive vistas. The presence of cholla and saguaro cacti throughout the ride highlights the resilience of desert life. From various points, you can appreciate the vastness of the landscape, with clear views extending to prominent features like Camelback Mountain and Four Peaks. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rugged terrain that defines the Phoenix Sonoran Desert Preserve.
2.5
(2)
26
riders
15.6km
01:17
70m
70m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.01 km
Uphill 0 m
Downhill 0 m
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Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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