The Loop shared-use path
America's #1 recreational trail! 137 miles of car-free paths through Tucson's stunning Sonoran Desert.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the desert heat
The Loop shared-use path
Best Time
Beat the desert heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
America's #1 recreational trail! 137 miles of car-free paths through Tucson's stunning Sonoran Desert.
"The bike path gives you lots of options to peel off or extend it to Oro Valley and Marana."
☀️ Beat the Heat!
Tucson gets hot! Start your ride early morning to avoid the intense midday sun. :sunwithface:
🗺️ Stay on Track
The Loop is well-marked, but carry a map or use a navigation app for longer rides. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chuck Huckelberry Loop
Encompasses Pima County, Marana, Oro Valley, Tucson, and South Tucson
America's #1 recreational trail! 137 miles of car-free paths through stunning desert landscapes.
Sweetwater Wetlands Park
North of St. Mary's entrance
A peaceful oasis with beautiful views, perfect for birdwatching and a serene cycling detour.
Suzanne Shields Bridge
West Side of Tucson
A new, artistically designed bridge offering new access points and connecting more areas of The Loop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Desert Scenery
Navigating The Loop Safely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Beat the Heat!
Tucson gets hot! Start your ride early morning to avoid the intense midday sun. :sunwithface:
🗺️ Stay on Track
The Loop is well-marked, but carry a map or use a navigation app for longer rides. :world_map:
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer excursions. Water fountains can be sparse. :droplet:
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Tugo bike share and other rental options make it easy to explore The Loop. :bicycle:
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Beat the Heat!
Tucson gets hot! Start your ride early morning to avoid the intense midday sun. :sunwithface:
🗺️ Stay on Track
The Loop is well-marked, but carry a map or use a navigation app for longer rides. :world_map:
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer excursions. Water fountains can be sparse. :droplet:
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Tugo bike share and other rental options make it easy to explore The Loop. :bicycle:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Whether walking or biking, wear comfortable shoes for your desert adventure. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Loop is widely praised as a city investment offering extensive, safe, and scenic car-free paths for recreation. While many enjoy the well-maintained trails and desert views, some users have noted concerns about trash and safety in certain urban sections, particularly for solo female riders.
"This is one of the cities’s best investments. The bike path gives you lots of options to peel off or extend it to Oro Valley andMarana. Close to town it can be a little sketchy with trash and homeless people. Otherwise, the path is safe and easy to navigate with lots of signs at intersections."
Maria Thi Mai
"If you’re looking for a great place to ride with minimal exhaust fumes, the loop has always been awesome.
Occasionally, you may experience a drugged zombie or two down by Congress and the downtown area. Heading towards Riverfront or a valley or Marana is awesome. A lot of open pavement."
gary zimnoch
"do not go. it's not as beautiful as the comments and reviews make it out to be. me and my friend (female) went biking there because we saw the good reviews and from the pictures it looked beautiful, but the amount of homeless people is crazy. it was super unsafe for us being 2 females. do not recommend we were scared for our lives the whole ride was not enjoyable. avoid at all costs. and not as nice as the pictures make it out to be. also the neighbourhood around that area are super unsafe as well."
simmie dharnia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Loop has numerous access points throughout Tucson and surrounding areas like Marana and Oro Valley. Popular entry points include near St. Mary's Hospital and Sweetwater Wetlands Park. Many neighborhoods also offer direct access, making it a convenient amenity.
Yes, many access points have dedicated parking lots. Check local park facilities or trailheads for available parking.
While direct bus routes to specific trailheads might be limited, some routes can get you close to access points. It's best to check the Sun Tran bus schedule for routes near your desired entry point. :bus:
The Loop is a paved, shared-use path designed for various users, making it generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Neighborhoods like Rita Ranch offer direct access, making weekend bike rides and walks a routine part of life. Areas in Oro Valley and Marana also connect to the larger network.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The Loop is a public, shared-use path and does not require any tickets or admission fees to access. It's free for everyone to enjoy! :ticket:
The Loop is generally open from sunrise to sunset, but specific access points might have park hours. It's recommended to check local Pima County Parks and Recreation or city park hours for specific areas. :clock1:
There are no fees to use The Loop itself. If you rent a bike, there will be rental costs.
Yes, The Loop is a multi-use path and is also suitable for horseback riding in designated areas. :horse_racing:
While many find it safe, some users have reported feeling unsafe in certain areas, particularly near downtown due to increased homeless populations. Riding during daylight hours and in busier sections is advised.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll experience beautiful desert landscapes, with opportunities to see native plants, wildlife, and scenic mountain views. +3
The Chuck Huckelberry Loop is approximately 131-137 miles long, offering extensive options for exploration. +2
It's perfect for biking, running, walking, rollerblading, and even horseback riding. +2
Restrooms and water fountains are available at various parks and access points along The Loop, but they are not continuous. It's wise to carry your own water. :droplet:
While The Loop itself is paved, there are often connecting trails or areas nearby that are popular for mountain biking.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Direct dining options directly on the path are limited. However, many access points are near restaurants and cafes in Tucson, Marana, and Oro Valley.
Yes, packing a picnic is a great idea! There are many scenic spots along the path where you can stop and enjoy your meal. :sandwich:
While not directly on the path, areas near access points in Tucson offer a variety of dining choices. Exploring neighborhoods like those near the Rillito Race Track can lead to local eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
The desert flora, mountain vistas, and unique bridge architecture (like the Suzanne Shields Bridge) offer fantastic photo opportunities. +1
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the desert's beauty. +2
Look out for the artistic flair on bridges and overpasses, as well as the natural beauty of the desert plants and mountain ranges.
Yes, the wetlands and desert areas can offer chances to spot birds and other desert creatures, but always maintain a safe distance. :camerawithflash:
A versatile lens for landscapes and potential wildlife shots, along with a wide-angle lens for expansive desert views, would be ideal. Don't forget a polarizing filter for those bright desert skies! :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Neighborhoods with direct access to The Loop, like Rita Ranch, are highly sought after by families for this very reason.
🚴♀️ Avid Cyclists
For those seeking a challenge, consider riding from Oro Valley all the way down to South Tucson, or exploring the connections to other trail systems. Renting a bike through Tugo or local shops is a convenient option if you're visiting.
🚶♂️ Walkers & Runners
Many find the path to be a great escape from city noise, offering a peaceful environment to clear your head.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Chuck Huckelberry Loop: A Tucson Gem
Cyclists, runners, walkers, and even equestrians utilize The Loop daily. Its extensive mileage means you can embark on short, leisurely strolls or ambitious multi-day cycling tours. The path is generally well-maintained and clearly signed, with numerous access points making it easy to hop on and off.
While the majority of The Loop offers a pleasant and safe experience, it's worth noting that some sections, particularly closer to the downtown core, can present challenges with litter and encounters with individuals experiencing homelessness.
Navigating The Loop: Safety and Etiquette
Safety concerns, particularly for solo female riders, have been raised by some users regarding certain sections near downtown due to increased visibility of homeless individuals.
Proper hydration and sun protection are paramount when using The Loop, given Tucson's desert climate. Carrying ample water and wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential, especially during warmer months.
Exploring The Loop's Natural Beauty
Detours to areas like the Sweetwater Wetlands Park provide a different perspective, showcasing a riparian ecosystem that attracts a diverse array of bird species.
The path's design intentionally integrates with the natural environment, allowing for a peaceful coexistence between human activity and the desert habitat. The open vistas and the quiet hum of nature create a truly immersive experience, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit