Pemberton Trail

by Chris 5/30/2000

Check it out, this trail is a diamond-in-the rough 15-mile-long-trail perfect for mountain bikers who don't feel like peddling back and forth over the same trail just to get a decent workout. This scenic trail makes for a perfect biking trip that is both exhilirating and enjoyable.

The route is mostly flat, but throws in a fair amount of dips and rises to keep things cooking. Mostly composed of singletrack and a couple of service roads, the trail gives you up to 30 miles round trip. If you're still hungry for more, several other shorter trails branch off for added glory.

Although the McDowell Mountains suffered heavy damage to its ecosystem during the Rio fire of several years back, the plant- and animal-life have rebounded remarkably, and the scenery will bring you back again.

Getting There: From Fountain Hills, drive north on Fountain Hills Boulevard and turn left at the park entrance. Take Shallmo Drive to the trailhead parking area.