If you’re a cyclist or triathlete looking for the perfect winter training destination, Solana Spanish Villas in Tucson, Arizona might just be the hidden gem you’ve been searching for. With its beautiful landscapes, favorable weather, and a thriving athletic community, east Tucson offers everything you need to take your training to the next level. In this blog, we’ll explore why Tucson is becoming a favorite spot for winter training camps and what you can expect when you train in this Southwestern oasis.
Top Cycling Routes in Tucson, Arizona
Tucson, Arizona, is a cyclist’s paradise, offering a variety of scenic and challenging routes. From mountain climbs to peaceful desert paths, there’s something for everyone. Below is a curated list of some of the best cycling routes in the area, complete with starting points, distances, elevation gains, and notable features.
Mount Lemmon to Windy Point
- Start Location: North East Tucson
- Ride Start: Intersection of Catalina Highway and East Snyder Road
- Distance: 14.5 miles (one-way)
- Elevation Gain: 3,500 feet
- Comments: A favorite for climbers, this steady ascent offers rewarding views of the Santa Catalina Mountains. This segment of the Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is both challenging and breathtaking.
Starbucks to Saguaro National Park East Loop
- Start Location: South East Tucson
- Ride Start: Starbucks at Harrison Road and Old Spanish Trail
- Distance: 27 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,179 feet
- Comments: This scenic loop takes you through the stunning desert landscape of Saguaro National Park East. A perfect mix of terrain for intermediate cyclists.
Santa Cruz to Canada del Oro Wash to Rillito River Park
- Start Location: North West Tucson
- Ride Start: El Camino del Cerro Park at Silverbell Road and West El Camino Del Cerro Road
- Distance: 28 miles
- Elevation Gain: 525 feet
- Comments: Enjoy a scenic ride along Tucson’s interconnected river park systems. This flat route is ideal for cyclists of all levels and offers beautiful desert views.
Arivaca Out and Back
- Start Location: South of Tucson
- Ride Start: Longhorn Grill at West Arivaca Road and I-19 Frontage
- Distance: 44 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,871 feet
- Comments: This picturesque route features rolling hills and desert scenery. Starting at the historic Longhorn Grill, it’s a great choice for intermediate cyclists seeking a moderate challenge.
Canada del Oro and Dove Mountain Loop
- Start Location: North West Tucson
- Ride Start: El Camino del Cerro Park at Silverbell Road and West El Camino Del Cerro Road
- Distance: 40 miles
- Elevation Gain: 994 feet
- Comments: This loop combines flat sections with gentle climbs. It showcases the natural beauty of northwest Tucson, making it a perfect route for a leisurely yet fulfilling ride.
The Loop from El Camino del Cerro Park
- Start Location: North West Tucson
- Ride Start: El Camino del Cerro Park at Silverbell Road and West El Camino Del Cerro Road
- Distance: 54 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,036 feet
- Comments: The Loop is a network of over 130 miles of paved pathways, encircling Tucson. This long, uninterrupted ride is ideal for cyclists looking to avoid vehicular traffic while enjoying a comprehensive tour of the city.
Woodlands Drive to Catalina Highway to Forty Niner Country Club
- Start Location: North East Tucson
- Ride Start: Crossroads Café at Tanque Verde Road and Bear Canyon Road
- Distance: 26 miles
- Elevation Gain: 572 feet
- Comments: This route takes you through scenic suburban and rural landscapes, passing through Woodland Road and Catalina Highway, with a stop near the 49ers Country Club.
Randolph Golf Course to Sahuarita and Houghton Loop
- Start Location: Central Tucson
- Ride Start: Randolph Golf Course at Alvernon Way and East Montecito Street
- Distance: 58 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,132 feet
- Comments: Starting in central Tucson, this route takes you south along the Julian Wash Greenway, passing through Sahuarita and looping back via Houghton Road. It’s perfect for experienced cyclists seeking a mix of urban and rural scenery.
Canada del Oro to Catalina State Park
- Start Location: North West Tucson
- Ride Start: El Camino del Cerro Park at Silverbell Road and West El Camino Del Cerro Road
- Distance: 30 miles
- Elevation Gain: 645 feet
- Comments: A relatively flat route leading to the beautiful Catalina State Park. Suitable for all skill levels, this ride offers stunning views of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
Twin Peaks and Tangerine Loop
- Start Location: North West Tucson
- Ride Start: Intersection of Twin Peaks Road and Silverbell Road
- Distance: 29 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,040 feet
- Comments: This route features rolling hills and flat terrain as you ride through Twin Peaks Road to Tangerine Road. It’s perfect for intermediate cyclists and offers picturesque views of the Tucson Mountains and desert landscape.
Stunning Scenery and Challenging Routes
Tucson is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and diverse training terrains. From the iconic Mt. Lemmon climb to the rolling hills of Saguaro National Park, cyclists and triathletes are spoiled for choice when it comes to routes that test endurance and build strength. The Saguaro National Park offers expansive views of towering cacti and rugged desert vistas, making every ride a visual masterpiece. Meanwhile, Mount Lemmon provides an 8,000-foot elevation ride through diverse ecosystems—starting with the sparse beauty of the desert floor and rising through pine forests. This path is both demanding and rewarding, challenging even the most seasoned cyclists with its relentless incline and stunning scenery.
Gates Pass is another favorite amongst cyclists seeking a blend of beauty and challenge. The thrilling ride through this route offers cyclists exhilarating descents and the chance to conquer its steep switchbacks. Cyclists rave about the vibrant sunsets painting the desert landscape, illustrating yet another reason why Tucson is celebrated by the cycling community. The natural beauty of these routes distracts from the physical exertion, luring you to pedal further into tranquility.
Community Support and Resources
The thriving athletic community in Tucson is supported by numerous local clubs, races, and events. Whether you’re seeking camaraderie, coaching, or competition, Tucson’s community is welcoming and offers a wealth of resources to keep you motivated throughout your winter training. The city hosts a myriad of cycling events, including the famed El Tour de Tucson, which attracts thousands of cyclists annually, from casual riders to seasoned professionals. This 102-mile tour is a staple for the cycling community, providing various distances to accommodate all skill levels while raising funds for local charities.
Training isn’t just about hitting the road; it’s about community, and Tucson is rich with it. From the Greater Arizona Bicycling Association offering weekly rides to specialized triathlon camps like Brand Scheel Racing, there’s always an opportunity to connect with fellow athletes. These connections are priceless, offering support systems, training partners, and even friendships, which can transform a grueling training routine into an engaging and enjoyable experience.
Top Facilities and Tucson Training Camps
Tucson is home to some of the best training facilities and camps in the country. From Olympic-size pools to premier cycling shops and repair stations, Tucson provides athletes with top-notch amenities to refine their skills and maintain peak performance. The city offers a growing number of year-round triathlon training camps designed to take advantage of its favorable climate and diverse terrains. These camps offer structured training regimens, professional coaching, and cutting-edge performance analytics to get the most out of your sessions.
In addition to the natural landscapes, Tucson’s comprehensive network of bike shops and repair centers ensures that athletes can maintain and optimize their equipment throughout their stay. Access to expert advice and quality repairs means no down days due to mechanical issues, and responsive on-the-ground support can make all the difference during intensive training periods. Plus, having a wide range of accommodation options, athletes are often within arm’s reach of these vital resources.
Winter Training Estate in Tucson: Solana Cycling House
Cyclists from around the world flock to Tucson for its year-round sunny weather, scenic routes, and high-altitude training opportunities. When it comes to finding the perfect basecamp for your cycling or triathlon training group, Solana Spanish Villas checks all the boxes. Here’s why it’s an ideal choice for cycling endurance groups.
First and foremost, Solana Spanish Villas offers prime proximity to premier cycling routes. It’s located along Tanque Verde Road, where bike lanes make it easy to navigate to some of Tucson’s most popular cycling destinations. Plus, you’re just minutes away from the breathtaking Mount Lemmon Scenic Highway, known for its challenging elevation gain and stunning views.
Accommodations for teams are incredibly spacious at Solana. With six beautifully appointed villas, you can comfortably host up to 40 guests. Each villa comes equipped with private kitchens, generous living spaces, and outdoor areas perfect for team meetings or just relaxing after a long day of training.
Secure storage and maintenance facilities are also a key feature. There’s oversized parking available for trailers and vehicles, plus dedicated space to set up a bike repair station and store your gear safely, ensuring everything you need is right at your fingertips.
Health and fitness amenities abound, with open park areas ideal for pre-ride stretching or post-ride cool-downs. Should you wish to hit the gym, you’ll find nearby facilities like Workout Anytime just a few miles away.
Convenience is another reason why Solana Spanish Villas stands out. It’s close to grocery stores such as Safeway and Sprouts Farmers Market for easy access to supplies. Plus, after a long ride, you can wind down at nearby restaurants like Le Buzz Café and Bear Canyon Pizza, perfect for a delicious post-ride meal.
For those who want to travel green, Solana Spanish Villas features on-site EV charging stations for eco-friendly vehicles. And when it comes to relaxation and recovery, guests can enjoy the pool, lovely walking paths, a serene pond with a dock, and outdoor fire pits—all amidst Tucson’s mild weather, which is ideal for year-round training.
Lastly, group discounts and extended stay options make it an economical choice for cycling teams looking for value without sacrificing quality. Cyclists who’ve stayed at Solana Spanish Villas often praise its tranquil atmosphere, privacy, and exceptional amenities, making it a fantastic location for focused training and team bonding.
Contact us for availability at (520) 200-2059 or email us at Manager@SolanaSpanishVillas.com to arrange a tour.
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