ARIZONA TRAIL TRANSPORTATION GUIDE
No hassle travel to and from the AZT.

ARIZONA TRAIL TRANSPORTATION GUIDE

Welcome to The Project’s ultimate guide for navigating transportation to and from the Arizona Trail! Getting to either of the trailheads isn’t too difficult, but some planning is required. Fortunately, there are plenty of transportation options to get you there and back. Travel can be stressful, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the logistics, so I created this Arizona Trail Transportation Guide to simplify the process.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from the closest airports and how to get from the airport to the trailhead, to parking options and the best way to transport your bike to the starting line and back home. Here’s what you’ll find in the guide:

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WHICH AIRPORT TO FLY INTO?

Selecting the right airport for your Arizona Trail (AZT) adventure is an important step in ensuring a smooth start and finish to your journey. Your choice will depend on several factors, including your starting and ending points on the trail, available flight options, and how you plan to transport your bike. Whether you prioritize proximity to the trail, the convenience of a major airport, or the opportunity to explore additional destinations, there are several airports to consider, each with its own benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the best options to help you decide which airport suits your AZT plans.

Pro-Tip

If by chance you happen to fly one way to either the start or home from the finish as I did, keep in mind that depending on which airline you choose, your bike could cost more to fly than you. Choose wisely!

NORTHERN TERMINUS

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG)

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) is the closest option for those beginning or ending their journey at the northern terminus. Located about 80 miles from the Utah border, it’s a convenient choice for riders looking to minimize driving time to the trailhead. However, FLG is a smaller regional airport with limited flights, so it may require a connection through Phoenix or another major hub.

At this time American Airlines is the only carrier offering service out of FLG. One must go through either Phoenix or Dallas Fort Worth to reach FLG.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the best choice for more flight options or are traveling internationally. Located about 240 miles south of the northern terminus and roughly 150 miles north of the southern terminus, PHX is the closest major airport to both ends of the AZT. As one of the busiest airports in the U.S., PHX offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, making it a highly accessible gateway for your trip. From Phoenix, you can rent a car, arrange a shuttle, or even take public transportation to reach either trailhead.

The follow carriers offer service in and out of PHX: Advanced Airlines, Air Canada, Air France, Alaska, Allegiant, American Airlines, Breeze Airlines, Condor Airlines, Contour Airlines, Delta, Denver Air Connection, Flair Airlines, Frontier, Hawaiian Airlines, Jet Blue, Southern Airway Express, Southwest, Spirt Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, Volaris, and WestJet.

Salt Lake City, (SLC)

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Located about 340 miles north of the Arizona-Utah border, SLC is a major airport offering a wide range of domestic and international flights. While it’s farther from the trailhead than Phoenix or Flagstaff, the drive from Salt Lake City to the northern terminus is relatively straightforward and scenic. This airport might be a good choice if you find better flight deals, prefer the drive, or plan to explore more of the Southwest before or after your ride.

SLC full list of carriers includes: Aeromexico, Air Canada, Alaska, American Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Delta, Frontier, Hawaiian Airlines, Jet Blue, KLM, Spirt Airlines, Southwest, Sun Country Airlines, and United Airlines.

SOUTHERN TERMINUS

Tucson International Airport (TUS)

Tucson International Airport (TUS) is another excellent option for those starting or ending at the southern terminus near the Mexico border. Located about 80 miles north of the southern terminus, TUS offers more flight options than Flagstaff but fewer than Phoenix. It’s a convenient choice if you’re focusing on the southern sections of the trail and want to minimize travel time to the starting point.

Available airlines that offer service in and out of TUS: Alaska, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, South Country Airlines, and United Airlines

Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey

The Project conducts an ongoing rider survey to assist new riders in selecting the right gear for the Arizona Trail Race. Embarking on an adventure like the AZTR can be daunting, and the planning process overwhelming. We hope this survey will aid new riders in their preparation and execution of their Arizona Trail ride, ensuring they are better equipped for their adventure.

If you haven’t taken the Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey yet, we encourage you to participate through the links below.

***Please pay close attention to the examples provided for questions requiring typed answers. If responses are not entered exactly as shown in the examples, I will need to correct them, which can skew the results. Thank you in advance!

Take Survey #1

Covers: bikes, suspension, tires & wheels, drivetrain, and Components.

Survey 1 Results

Take Survey #2

Covers: navigation planning, camping, logistic/travel, clothes, and more.

Survey 2 Results

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TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

Surprisingly, the Arizona Trail offers a variety of shuttle options to help you reach both the northern and southern termini. Given the remoteness of these trailheads, public transportation isn’t available, making shuttle services a crucial resource for riders. Below is a list of shuttle providers that can get you to and from the Arizona Trail. Most of these services can accommodate mountain bikes, but it’s always a good idea to confirm when booking. Keep in mind that shuttle space can be limited during peak season, so planning ahead is essential.

Shuttles

SOUTHERN ARIZONA

Home Grown Mountain Bike Tours – Offers shuttle service between Tucson to the International Border for $55 and $110 to start and back from Picket Post. You can reach them by phone or by email at tara@homegrownmtb.com. 520-237-0129 homegrownmtb.com

Southwest Trekking – Offers shuttle service from Mexico to the Gila River. 520-296-9661 www.swtrekking.com

Ken’s Shuttle Service – Offers shuttle service for up to 4 hikers to trailhead(s) between Passages 1-13. On- or off-highway travel is available. Call or e-mail kensshuttleservice@gmail.com for pricing information and scheduling. 520-604-6939

Sun & Spokes Bicycle Shop – 520-458-0685

FindingTrueNorth.co – Offers shuttles services for up to 4 bikepackers with no minimum. They offer two pick up locations. The first is north Tucson next to the REI, and the other is, south Tucson @ 2505 E. Executive Drive at the Marriott. Drop on is monument or Montezuma Pass. $175 for shuttle and bike spot. They will pick riders up as far north as Kearny for those who have to bail out. One can book by calling, texting 520-904-3000 or even reaching out via social media. findingtruenorth.co/

Suntran.com – From TUS you can get on the Tucson’s public bus Suntran (520) 792-9222 and access various parts of the city but no further.

CENTRAL ARIZONA

M & B Sedan – Offers shuttle service to and from trailheads on the Arizona Trail between Oracle and Pine/Strawberry. 877-627-3326 mbsedan.com

Home Grown Mountain Bike Tours – Offers shuttle service between Phoenix to the International Border. You can reach them by phone or by email at tara@homegrownmtb.com. 520-237-0129 homegrownmtb.com

Payson Airport Shuttle – Offers shuttle service from both the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and Mesa Gateway Airport, servicing Payson, Pine, Strawberry and all points in between, including trailheads. 928-363-0754 paysonairportshuttle.com

NORTHERN ARIZONA

Circle Tours – Offers shuttle services to various northern Arizona/southern Utah trailheads. Contact Kyle Walker at 888-854-7862. vermilioncliffs.net

Paria Outpost – Run by Susan and Stephen Dodson, has a shuttle service. Contact them at 928-691-1047 paria.com

Ashley World Traveler BNB – Shuttles (to northern terminus, Page airport, and more, shower and laundry, accommodations, caching water, and vehicle storage. 801-616-2070 worldtravelerbnb.com

Destination Services – Offers shuttle services with their 9-passenger van for hikers and mountain bikers. 928-645-2789

The Arizona Trail Association has a larger list on their website if you cannot find a ride to/from the trail with those companies listed here.

Buses

Greyhound – Greyhound, SLC to St. George $38

Bike box – Max size 62″ (157cm) combined length+width+height and 50 lbs or less.

FlixBus, Greyhoud, and Groome Transportation – Phoenix to Flaggstaff, multiple daily departures. The trip typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and the specific service.

FlixBus, Greyhound, and Groome Transportation – Phoenix to Tuscon, this trip usually takes about 2 hours. These services run frequently throughout the day, providing flexible options for travelers.

If you choose to fly into SLC your transportation to the northern terminus will look something like this.

Option 1 – Schedule to have a friend pick you up and drive 366 miles (about 6 hours) one way to the Stateline Campground.

Option 2 – Jump on Greyhound and get off in St. George. Then have one services listed below to take you to Stateline Campground. (See notes about taking the bus below).

It is possible you could find transportation to the trail through Craigslist.com or from one of the many Facebook pages for Utah mountain bikers.

SHIPPING YOUR BIKE

To ship or to check your bike on the plane, that’s the question. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, I’ll leave the decision up to you. What I will do is offer some helpful information about both options to make your decision easier. You only have two options. #1 carry your bike on the plane. #2 Ship it.

Plane

Charges range between $50 and $150 for most airlines. Don’t forget size limitation when boxing your bike. Most require your boxed bike be less than 62 inches in combined size (length plus width plus height) or charges may apply.

Just like with resupplying doing your homework pays off when flying. If you’re willing to look, there are “hacks” to get around paying for traveling with your bicycle. With so many airlines, there’s to many for me to research, but don’t hesitate to do some research yourself. You just might find a deal.

Ship

Shipping allows you some flexibility in how you get your bike to and from the race. Typically you have three options:

DIY: Personally box & ship (costs range but start around $70-200 for a cardboard box, but actual cost is determined on weight, size and location).
Bike Shop: Outsource to your local bike shop.
- $50 to box (prices vary)
- Plus shipping cost (costs range but start around $70-200 for a cardboard box, but actual cost is determined on weight, size and location).
Shipping Company: Use Bike Flights
- Boxes, Pick up, Delivery, Insurance, Tracking and more! Amazing service, worth checking out.
- Adventure Cycling Association – receive 10% discount on boxes and cases at Bike Flights, along with a list of other discounts from other companies.

Bike Flights is an affiliate partner. This means by clicking their logo above and booking your bike shipment you’ll be supporting the Project. Thanks!

Pro-Tip

Whether you’re flying or just shipping your bike be sure to remove your Co2 cartridges.

Also don’t bother fully taping up your box as TSA will most definitely go through it with you before they accept it.

ARIZONA TRAIL RACE PLANNING AIDS

Welcome to The Project’s Planning Aids, designed to bridge the gap left by the lack of high-quality planning tools within bikepacking. As a Triple Crown thru-hiker, I’m accustomed to comprehensive planning resources, and I noticed that bikepacking needed similar quality tools. That’s why I developed these resources to make your Arizona Trail adventure as smooth and well-prepared as possible.

Our planning aids include four distinct styles to help you plan your ride:

The Data Sheet offers the most detailed information, including distance, elevation +/-, resupply options, notes and more for key POI.
Town List provides cumulative distances between POI, and does the math so you don’t have to.
Mileage Chart and Elevation Gain Chart are simple graphs showing cumulative mileage and elevation gain between POI.

Each tool serves a unique purpose to support your planning and navigation needs.

Explore our offerings to find the perfect combination for your needs and get ready to conquer the AZTR! Don’t forget to checkout our online Arizona Trail Resources as well.

BUNDLES DATA SHEET / TOWN LIST MILEAGE / ELEVATION GAIN CHARTS

BUNDLES

Small Bundles:

Big Bundles:

1 2

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

One package including our two most popular planning aids.

Data Sheet
Town List

1 2

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

One package including all of our planning aids.

Data Sheet
Town List
Mileage Chart
Elevation Gain Chart

Available ONLY in NOBO, US Standard units versions.

Small Bundle – $40.00 + tax (CO only) *You save $10 when you bundle!

Big Bundle – $60.00 + tax (CO only) *You save $20 when you bundle!

Buy Now »

DATA SHEETS / TOWN LISTS

Data Sheets:

Town Lists:

1 2 3

Gives you the most information of any planning aid.

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

Key POI.
Elevation / Pop of POI.
Mileage numbers.
Distance to next.
Elevation +/-.
Max & Min. elevation between POI.
Pavement sections.
Key water sources.
Shows bike shops.
Resupply options.
Important notes.
Elevation profile.
Finish Target Times.

1 2 3

Similar to the Data Sheet, with slightly less information, but displayed showing cumulative mileage and elevation gain.

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

Key POI.
Mileage.
Distance on/off trail.
Important notes about POI.
Cumulative distances to up coming POI.
Elevation Gain to reach up coming POI.
Key water sources.
Shows bike shops.
Finish Target Times added.

All versions of the Town Lists are ONLY available as part of the Small or Big Bundles.

Available ONLY in NOBO, US Standard units versions.

Data Sheet – $25 + Tax (CO only)

Buy Now »

MILEAGE / ELEVATION GAIN CHARTS

Mileage Charts:

Elevation Gain Charts:

1 2 3

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

Quickly find the total mileage between any two POI along the route.

Shows bike shops.
Works for both directions.
Key water sources.

1 2 3

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

Quickly find the total elevation gain between any two POI along the route.
- Shows bike shops.
- Works for both directions.
- Key water sources.

Available ONLY in NOBO, US Standard units versions.

Big Bundle – $60.00 + tax (CO only) *You save $20 when you bundle!

Buy Now »

BAILOUT OPTIONS

Bailing out and getting off the Arizona Trail can be challenging, especially given its remote nature. If you’re riding the AZT 300, the best options for bailing out are Tucson or Summerhaven, where you can enjoy a mostly downhill ride back to Tucson. Beyond these two locations, your options are limited to hitchhiking or arranging a ride with one of the shuttle services.

For those tackling the AZT 800, the most straightforward bailout point is Phoenix (specifically Apache Junction), with Tucson and Summerhaven being the best options if you’re in the AZT 300 section. Other towns along the route would require either hitchhiking or contacting a private shuttle service for assistance (see list above in Transportation Options section).

A simple yet effective way to arrange a ride—whether for bailing out or getting to and from the trail—is to post a request on the AZTR Facebook group. Riders often find quick help through this community.

PARKING OPTIONS

Parking at either of the Arizona Trail’s termini is generally not advisable. At the southern terminus, located right on the U.S.-Mexico border, parking is not available due to security concerns and the lack of facilities. The northern terminus, while scenic, is far from civilization, leaving any parked vehicle vulnerable to theft or vandalism. Although some say it’s safe to leave your car here, it’s a risky gamble—two weeks (or more) is a long time to leave a vehicle unattended in such a remote area.

Your best option is to arrange a drop-off with one of the shuttle services listed above. These services are experienced in transporting riders and their bikes, ensuring a hassle-free start or finish to your adventure. Alternatively, you could coordinate with a friend or family member for pickup or drop-off, but this requires a very flexible schedule on their part, as predicting your exact arrival time can be challenging.

Another option is to ride to or from the trailhead yourself. While this may not be the most appealing choice, especially considering the physical demands of the trail, it’s likely the most cost-effective solution.

More Helpful AZT Resources

Read these next.

Arizona Trail Bikepacking Guide

Your ultimate bikepacking guide to the AZT300/800.

MY PROVEN GEAR LIST FROM THE AZT

ARIZONA TRAIL RACE

A detailed look at what I used on my AZT (ITT), what worked and what didn’t.

“IF I RODE…” SERIES

AZTR

In depth look at what I would bring for gear and why, if I rode the AZT again.

Arizona Trail Race, AZT Featured Resource, AZT Resource, Bikepacking, Bikepacking Resource, IF I Rode, New

Checkout our bikepacking resource page for more planning help.

Bikepacking Resources

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guide, planning aid, coconino 250, bikepacking, resource

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