AZT: Gila River Canyons - Passage 16

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Not Allowed

Features Commonly Bikepacked · Views

The north end of this passage isn't accessible by road.

This passage of the AZT is commonly ridden in combination with Passage 17 for a long day or great bikepacking overnighter. Access the parking lot on the south end of the segment from the gravel road immediately on the north side of the Gila River. It is about 0.25 miles from Florence Kelvin Hwy.

The route begins with a warm-up climb up to some great views overlooking the railroad bridge and Gila River. Follow the trail back down toward the Gila River where you go through a lush area close to the river before climbing back out of the river valley flora. There are lots of short ups and downs through this portion.

After about 10 miles, you'll come to some OHV trails that continue the flowing up and downs. These end near the portion where you exit paralleling the Gila River. This is the last reliable water till the AZT water collector at the end of this section.

Now the real uphill begins. Remember earlier I said there was a warm-up hill. The next 10 miles are a gradual uphill gaining about 3,000 ft. The trail is a gradual uphill that is rideable the entire way. Find a low gear and prepare for some grinding. Your work is rewarded with great views and solitude with no roads in sight. Connect this to Passage 17 for a great shuttle ride.