• ARIZONA TRAIL TRANSPORTATION GUIDE

    No hassle travel to and from the AZT.

    A complete Arizona Trail Transportation Guide covering travel logistics for getting to and from the Arizona Trail.

Ultimate Arizona Trail Transportation Guide: Airports, Shuttles, and More

Welcome to The Project’s ultimate Arizona Trail Transportation 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 Arizona Trail Transportation 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:

Table of Contents:

Travel To and From

Airports

Ground Transportation

Shipping Bike

Bailout Points

Parking

AZT Resources

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Popular Resources:

Bikepacking Resources

Planning Aids

Bikepacking Gear

Rider Survey's

TRAVEL TO AND FROM

Getting to and from the Arizona Trail Race requires proper planning, especially for international riders. This section is for non-US riders traveling to the Arizona Trail Race, providing a simplified overview of the basic entry requirements for the U.S. and essential travel details.

For detailed information on passports, visas, VWP, ESTA, customs regulations, and border crossings, refer to our full travel guide:

The rest of this guide covers transportation logistics, including shuttles, buses, airports, lodging, and more to help you plan your trip.

US Entry & Exit Requirement

Entry Requirements for Non-US Citizens

  • Entering the US: A valid passport is required.
  • Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers: Must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before arrival.
  • Non-VWP travelers: Must apply for a B-1 (Business) or B-2 (Tourism) Visa in advance.

For a full breakdown of travel requirements, visas, and border policies, visit our detailed guide.

What the Full Guides Cover

Items covered:

  • Visas: Visa Waiver Program (VWP), ESTA & B-1/B-2 Visas for US entry
  • eTA: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for Canada
  • Passports: Requirements & customs regulations
  • Health: Precautions & vaccinations
  • Safety: Travel insurance & emergency planning
  • Logistics: Border crossing tips & potential travel delays
  • Bike: Shipping & flying with your bike
  • Travel Tips: gear/resupply, pre/post trip considerations, and more

Non-US Riders: Bikepacking in the USA & Canada

WHICH AIRPORT TO FLY INTO?

Arizona Trail Transportation Guide | Know Your Flight Options

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 PLANNING AIDS

Welcome to The Project’s Arizona Trail 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.

Additional Resources

  • Why Use Our Planning Aids: Check out the “Why Choose Our Planning Aids” tab below for an in-depth explanation of their value, including how they simplify preparation, save time, and provide clarity bikepacking adventures and racing.
  • Tour Divide Maps: Explore our companion Ride with GPS maps tab below, to visualize the route, identify POIs, and download files for offline navigation.

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

BUNDLESDATA SHEET / TOWN LISTMILEAGE / ELEVATION GAIN CHARTSWhy Choose Our Planning AidsArizona Trail | Ride with GPS Maps
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BUNDLES

Small Bundles:

Big Bundles:

  • AZTR 300 NOBO Small Bundle cover, bikepacking, guides, planning aids
  • AZTR 800 NOBO Big Bundle Cover- Arizona Trail BIKEPACKING GUIDE PLANNING AIDS, Ultimate Bikepacking and Hiking Resource
  • AZTR, bikepacking, guide, planning aid, Data sheet, arizona trail race, AZT, guide
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The Small Bundle includes our two most popular planning aids, giving bikepackers essential route data in a streamlined format. With key logistics, cumulative mileage, and resupply details at your fingertips, this bundle simplifies planning and keeps you focused on the ride.

  • Data Sheet – The most comprehensive planning tool, packed with mileage, elevation gain/loss, resupply points, and key logistics.
  • Town List – Cumulative mileage and elevation gain between POIs, helping track progress and plan stops efficiently.
  • AZTR 300 NOBO Small Bundle cover, bikepacking, guides, planning aids
  • AZTR 800 NOBO Big Bundle Cover- Arizona Trail BIKEPACKING GUIDE PLANNING AIDS, Ultimate Bikepacking and Hiking Resource
  • AZTR, bikepacking, guide, planning aid, Data sheet, arizona trail race, AZT, guide
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The Big Bundle provides the most complete set of planning tools, ensuring you have everything needed to plan effectively and ride with confidence.

  • Data Sheet – Detailed mileage, elevation, and resupply information for comprehensive planning.
  • Town List – Cumulative distance and elevation tracking for easy route management.
  • Mileage Chart – Quick-reference breakdown of distances between key points.
  • Elevation Gain Chart – Clear elevation changes to help anticipate climbs and descents.

Available in NOBO and US Standard units ONLY.

Small Bundle – $40.00  *You save $10 when you bundle!

Big Bundle – $60.00  *You save $20 when you bundle!

Buy Now »

Craig, I wanted to let you know that your bikepacking guides are incredibly well done and useful.

“Thanks again for a great guide.  I’m have been using it as I prepare for the AZT750 this year.”

“I’m a cartographer at ACA and really wanted to tell you how great it is that you made this guide for prospective riders on TD.”

“I’m reaching out to thank you for the work you’ve put into One of Seven Project. It’s been an incredible resource for me as I transition from supported to unsupported tours and bikepacking.”

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DATA SHEETS / TOWN LISTS

Data Sheets:

Town Lists:

  • AZTR 300 NOBO Data Sheet cover, planning aid, bikepacking, guides
  • AZTR 800 NOBO Data Sheet cover, planning aid, bikepacking, guides
  • AZTR, bikepacking, guide, planning aid, Data sheet, arizona trail race, AZT, guide
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The Data Sheet is our most comprehensive planning tool, packed with detailed route data, including mileage, elevation gain/loss, resupply points, key logistics, and more to support every aspect of your ride. Designed to be the ultimate resupply tool, it ensures bikepackers have the critical information needed to plan their route efficiently and make informed decisions on the go.

  • 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.
  • AZTR 300 NOBO Town List cover, planning aid, bikepacking, guides
  • AZTR 800 NOBO Town List cover, bikepacking, guides, planning aids
  • AZTR, bikepacking, guide, planning aid, town list, arizona trail race, AZT, guide
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The Town List provides cumulative distances and elevation gain between multiple POIs, helping bikepackers track progress and plan resupply stops with ease. By doing the math for you, it saves time and lets you focus on the ride.

  • 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.

Available in NOBO and US Standard units ONLY.

Data Sheet – $25

Town List (ONLY available as part of the Small or Big Bundle.)

Buy Now »

Craig, I wanted to let you know that your bikepacking guides are incredibly well done and useful.

“Thanks again for a great guide.  I’m have been using it as I prepare for the AZT750 this year.”

“I’m a cartographer at ACA and really wanted to tell you how great it is that you made this guide for prospective riders on TD.”

“I’m reaching out to thank you for the work you’ve put into One of Seven Project. It’s been an incredible resource for me as I transition from supported to unsupported tours and bikepacking.”

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MILEAGE / ELEVATION GAIN CHARTS

Mileage Charts:

Elevation Gain Charts:

  • AZTR 300 NOBO Mileage Chart cover, bikepacking, guides, planning aids
  • AZTR 800 NOBO Mileage Chart cover, bikepacking, guides, planning aids
  • AZTR, bikepacking, guide, planning aid, mileage chart, arizona trail race, AZT, guide
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The Mileage Chart provides a quick-reference breakdown of distances between key points along the route, helping bikepackers plan resupply stops and daily targets efficiently.

  • Shows bike shops.
  • Works for both directions.
  • Key water sources.
  • AZTR 300 NOBO Elevation Gain Chart cover, bikepacking, guides, planning aids
  • AZTR 800 NOBO Elevation Gain Chart cover, bikepacking, guides, planning aids
  • AZTR, bikepacking, guide, planning aid, elevation gain chart, arizona trail race, AZT, guide
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The Elevation Gain Chart delivers a clear view of total elevation changes, allowing riders to anticipate climbs, descents, and overall route difficulty at a glance.

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

Available in NOBO and US Standard units ONLY.

Mileage and Elevation Gain Carts are our available as part of the Big Bundle.

Big Bundle – $60.00  *You save $20 when you bundle!

Buy Now »

Craig, I wanted to let you know that your bikepacking guides are incredibly well done and useful.

“Thanks again for a great guide.  I’m have been using it as I prepare for the AZT750 this year.”

“I’m a cartographer at ACA and really wanted to tell you how great it is that you made this guide for prospective riders on TD.”

“I’m reaching out to thank you for the work you’ve put into One of Seven Project. It’s been an incredible resource for me as I transition from supported to unsupported tours and bikepacking.”

PreviousNext

What Are Planning Aids?

Arizona Trail Planning Aids

Our Arizona Trail Planning Aids are comprehensive resources designed to assist bikepackers in effectively planning and navigating their adventures. Whether you’re tackling challenging bikepacking routes, or exploring scenic trails, these aids deliver critical route data and information to simplify your preparation and keep you focused on your journey.

From mileage data to key resupply points and water sources, our Arizona Trail Planning Aids provide the essential details to help you stay on track and fully experience the trail. We aim to support your success, no matter how you choose to explore the outdoors.

Why Use Our Planning Aids?

Arizona Trail Planning Aids

Our Arizona Trail Planning Aids for bikepacking are trusted by experienced bikepackers, and endurance riders, because they simplify preparation and provide clarity where it matters most. With our Arizona Trail Planning Aids, you can:

  • Plan with Confidence: Know exactly what’s ahead, from water stops to elevation changes.
  • Save Time: Get all the key route details in one organized place—no more piecing together scattered info.
  • Stay Focused on the Journey: With your prep done, you’ll spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the experience.

What You Get

Arizona Trail Planning Aids

When you choose our Arizona Trail Planning Aids, you gain access to reliable and organized route-specific data, including:

  • Point-of-Interest (POI) Data:
    • Mileage markers, cumulative distances, and key stops along the route.
    • Locations for resupply points, water sources, bike shops, and other critical services.
  • Route Metrics:
    • Elevation gain/loss, max/min elevations, and pavement mileage.
    • Detailed charts to help you anticipate climbs, descents, and varying terrain.
  • Practical Notes for Riders:
    • Guidance for navigating remote areas, staying prepared for dry stretches, and hitting resupply points.
    • Finish targets and other planning details to set achievable goals for each ride.
  • Convenient Formats:
    • Delivered as easy-to-use PDF files, available in both SOBO (Southbound) and NOBO (Northbound) formats where applicable.
  • Free Updates Throughout the Year:
    • Planning Aids include the most current data available at the time of purchase and are valid through December 31 of that year. If new information becomes available, you’ll receive free updates via email to ensure you’re always using the latest data.

Craig, I wanted to let you know that your bikepacking guides are incredibly well done and useful.

“Thanks again for a great guide.  I’m have been using it as I prepare for the AZT750 this year.”

“I’m a cartographer at ACA and really wanted to tell you how great it is that you made this guide for prospective riders on TD.”

“I’m reaching out to thank you for the work you’ve put into One of Seven Project. It’s been an incredible resource for me as I transition from supported to unsupported tours and bikepacking.”

PreviousNext

Arizona Trail Race Maps

Ride with GPS Maps

Plan Smarter with our Arizona Trail Maps and Planning Aids

The Arizona Trail Race is one of the most challenging bikepacking routes in the world, stretching thousands of miles through remote terrain and breathtaking landscapes. Proper preparation is essential for success, and these interactive maps, based on the official race route, are designed to complement the One of Seven Project’s Arizona Trail Planning Aids, giving you a powerful combination of tools to streamline your planning process.

  • Route visualization: Use the maps to explore the route, identify Points of Interest (POIs), and understand the trail’s layout. Icons represent water sources, resupply points, towns, and bike shops, offering a high-level view of critical stops along the way.
  • Downloadable backup: By downloading these maps from Ride with GPS, you’ll have a reliable backup GPX file to use if your GPS device runs out of battery or breaks.
  • Detailed insights: Dive deeper into the Planning Aids for essential data like mileage, elevation gain/loss, resupply strategies, and water details—organized to help you tackle the unique challenges of the Arizona Trail Race with confidence.

Together, these resources provide everything you need to map out a realistic strategy for tackling the Tour Divide, whether you’re racing or touring. Start planning your adventure today!

As an affiliate partner, One of Seven Project earns a commission for purchases made through any product, brand logo links, or banner ads on this page. Thanks for your support!

TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

Why Shuttles Are Key to the Arizona Trail Transportation Guide

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. The ATA has a even larger list.

Map for the southern terminus of the AZTR.

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.

Home Grown MTB

Homegrown MTB Tours - Arizona Trail Transportation Guide

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

Arizona Trail Transportation Guide: To Ship or Fly With 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.

Checkout our full guide on Shippling or Flying With Your Bike below.

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!

Shipping or Flying With Your Bike

Shipping or flying with your bike is a crucial part of the logistics for a bikepacking trip. To ensure your bike arrives safely and without extra costs, check out our detailed Guide on Shipping or Flying with Your Bike, where we cover everything from avoiding airline fees to preventing damage and handling transit hassles.

  • Traveling to and from the Arizona Trail, covered in the Arizona Trail Transportation Guide, with desert landscapes along the way.

Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey

Arizona Trail Transportation Guide: See How Others Got To/From the Route

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

BAILOUT OPTIONS

Arizona Trail Transportation Guide: Know Your Options
for Getting Off Trail

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

Arizona Trail Transportation Guide: Know Your 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

Everything you need to plan a bikepacking trip on the Arizona Trail.

Arizona Trail Planning Aids: Resupply, Mileage, and More

  • AZTR 800 NOBO Big Bundle Cover- Arizona Trail BIKEPACKING GUIDE PLANNING AIDS, Ultimate Bikepacking and Hiking Resource
  • AZTR 300 NOBO Big Bundle Cover- Arizona Trail BIKEPACKING GUIDE PLANNING AIDS, Ultimate Bikepacking and Hiking Resource
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Checkout our full line of AZTR Planning Aids at our store. Only available in NOBO US standard units.

Arizona Trail: My Prove Triple Crown Bikepacking Gear

  • Ultimate Bikepacking and Hiking Resource

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

Arizona Trail Gear: What Worked Well and What’s Even Better

  • Slider for Arizona Trail Gear guide for bikepacking the AZTR—what worked and what I'd use next time

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

Arizona Trail Rider Survey: Essential Gear Insights for New Riders

Curios to know what gear other riders used to get to the finish line? Checkout our Rider Surveys to find out what works or to take the survey yourself.

Ultimate Arizona Trail Guide:

Route, Resources, and More

 

Arizona Trail Resource Cover Photo

Checkout our bikepacking resource page for more planning help.

Bikepacking Resources

CHECKOUT ALL OUR GUIDES

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thermarest sponsor support - about
Jefe Velo bikepacking gear and accessories
Affiliate-Lasportiva
Bike Flights - shipping bikes

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