Arizona

Arizona Gravel

Get off the beaten path
Guest Reviews 21
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  • From $2995
  • Location Tucson, AZ
  • Duration 6 Days / 5 Nights
  • Rider Level 2 / 3 / 4 / 5

Combine can't-miss paved road rides in Tucson with the gravel roads less traveled on this adventure.

A brand new Arizona mixed terrain (gravel/pavement) itinerary is coming in 2022. Since 2005, Tucson camps have been the heart and soul of The Cycling House. The original concept remains intact: an all-inclusive cycling vacation with guided rides, great food in a relaxing setting. What’s new about this trip is that we combine the best-paved road rides – including Mount Lemmon – with some memorable off-road adventuring. This is a perfect opportunity to get off the beaten path, whether it’s your first time riding gravel or you just want an entirely new perspective of Tucson. Refuel with healthy meals and take advantage of the skills clinics, yoga, massages and multi-sport activities – if you feel like it. Just like summer camp, riders love coming back to Tucson year after year. Want to view more Tucson trip dates? Check out our Tucson Road Camps Here

Highlights

  • Five days of supported, guided rides to sunny Tucson’s best paved and gravel cycling routes 
  • The all-inclusive trip covers accommodations, ride support, and bike mechanics.
  • Healthy, delicious, home-cooked meals
  • A relaxed environment in laid-back, comfortable accommodations.
  • Multi-sport elements (optional): trail runs, outdoor lap swimming, yoga, core work, and nature walks.
  • Skills discussions to learn – or reinforce – group riding, nutrition, bike handling, cornering, and descending
  • Optional massages with an experienced sports massage therapist

Food

Using locally sourced ingredients, we create clean and delicious meals to fuel your week of riding. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all included. Each meal is inventive and diverse – often inspired by our chefs’ global travels – and focuses on lean proteins, leafy greens and root vegetables. We focus on food specifically for endurance athletes and accommodate all dietary preferences and restrictions. 

Accommodations

The Cycling House is our original cycling vacation concept. Our home in Tucson offers the opportunity to relax and recover in a spacious setting with friends. Enjoy yoga on the patio, share stories during a hot tub soak or finish a ride by jumping in the pool. This comfortable environment lends itself perfectly to nightly skills discussions over appetizers. Need a quick bike fix? Our garage’s workbench and collection of tools rival most bike shops. Our home has eight bedrooms, seven and a half bathrooms and two yurts in the fenced backyard. Here is a short video house tour.

ITINERARY

Riders arrive in Tucson, and we’ll shuttle to The Cycling House home base. Our mechanics will get to work on fitting riders to rental bikes or building riders’ personal bikes. Enjoy a leisurely rolling lunch by our chefs, ready for you when you arrive.

We’ll get settled into the house, set up everyone’s bikes, and go for an afternoon shakeout spin on mixed terrain.

Today’s Ride:

The arrival spin will be around 20-25 miles with a combination of paved and gravel roads, with 1,382 feet of elevation gain, 1.5-2.5 hours.

The ride includes gravel roads, gravel single-track, and pavement. We point it South from The Cycling House and get our tires dirty on the way to Saguaro East National Park where we can stop for a quick bathroom break. A few more miles of paving then we get up close and personal with the mighty Saguaro Cactus on the Arizona Trail. The views are spectacular and the single-track riding might be new for some guests but it’s all part of the adventure! Sections of the single track are smoother than road sections and it is a great opportunity to work on your handling skills on rolling terrain. After the Arizona Trail, we head back towards Saguaro East National Park. Riders can choose to do the 8-mile paved route or 3 miles of pavement and 3 miles of singletrack. After the park, it’s all downhill back to our house.

Today’s Ride:

30-60 miles, with 2,500 – 3,500 feet of elevation gain, 3-5+ hours

Options abound and there is something for everybody!

The Almost to Mexico ride requires a 1-hour, 15-minute shuttle to Patagonia, Arizona. The ride is fantastic, delivers extensive views of the San Rafael Valley, and offers dramatic views of the Sky islands down to Mexico. All ride options finish up in Patagonia, Arizona, and the staff will serve a picnic lunch before we shuttle back to Tucson. 

Today’s Ride:

30-50 miles, with 2,000 – 3,500+ feet of elevation gain, 2-4+hours

Tucson has over 100 miles of dedicated multi-use paved trails called, The Loop.  We usually ride The Loop after a couple of big rides or the day before Mount Lemmon. The Loop has very little climbing, so it can be a true recovery day.  If riders are looking for more we will have the opportunity to add in Gates Pass and potentially A mountain.  Today is all about options, more miles, more climbing, no problem!  The entire group will finish at El Mercado and have lunch at Seis Kitchen before shuttling home.  Guests will want to bring a change of clothing and we will plan to shuttle home after lunch. Don’t forget, there is always an option to ride home from lunch too!

Today’s ride:

Valley spin & Gates Pass: 32-42+ miles with 500-1,500 feet of elevation gain.

Get ready to experience Mount Lemmon, the crown jewel of Tucson riding and one of the best climbs in North America. Many professional cyclists have made Tucson their winter home for the access to this iconic climb, which switchbacks its way up the Catalina mountain range, topping out at 8,000+ feet.

The ride starts with a 4-10-mile warm-up from The Cycling House en route to mile 0 of the 20.5-mile climb. Mile markers and elevation signs mark your progress, while the amazing views up to the high alpine forest help take your mind off the uphill challenge. You’ll ascend nearly 5,500 feet, climbing at a 5-8% grade over the 20.8 miles, finishing in the small ski town of Summerhaven.

The reward for your efforts is a fun descent on the impeccable pavement with sweeping turns. Mount Lemmon is a challenge for everyone, but it’s a very achievable goal with proper pacing, good fueling, and determination. We will finish by riding back to TCH.

Today’s ride:

Mount Lemmon!

35-57 miles with 4,000- 7,100 feet of climbing. The ride is an out-and-back; it’s easy to self-select how much you want to ride/climb.

Shuttles will be running to the TUS airport all morning, and we’ll make sure you get to the airport with plenty of time to spare.

For those who don’t depart Tucson early, you are welcome to go on an optional self-guided ride on a nearby route.

Today’s Plan:

Checkout by 11 a.m.

For those who don’t have an early flight, there is an optional self-guided departure spin before check out.

DATES & PRICES

We'd love to help you plan a dream cycling trip for you and your riding crew.
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DETAILS

What's Included

  • 5 nights/6 days accommodations
  • Airport transfers to/from Tucson International Airport (TUS)
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Bike build and breakdown
  • Professional cycling guides
  • Vehicle sag support
  • Ride nutrition products
  • Tools available to use in the garage
  • High-quality ride photos

What's Not Included

  • Airfare
  • Bike rentals
  • Gratuity for guides
  • Mid-ride café stops
  • Personal shopping
  • +$ for single room supplement
  • Looking for more Tucson trip dates? Check out our Tucson Road Camps Here.

Optional Activities

  • Trail runs or hikes
  • Lap swim
  • Core/stretching sessions
  • Basic bike maintenance clinic
  • Nature walks

Questions?

Have more questions? View our FAQ page or call us at 406-312-5770.
SEE ALL FAQs

BIKE OPTIONS

RentBike_Icon Icon

Rent A Bike

Traveling through the airport with a bike—and paying for it to fly—is not everyone’s idea of a fun way to start a vacation. Fortunately, we offer high-quality, full carbon bikes on all of our trips across the United States and Europe. Want to just show up and ride? Just bring your shoes, pedals, helmet, and saddle (if you want), and rent one of ours.

Available this trip:
Cervelo Aspero 2021-Tucson Rental Bike
Cervelo Aspero Road/Gravel Bike
Manufacturer: Cervelo
Type: Gravel Bike
Cost: $300 / trip
Specialized Vado SL 4.0 E-Bike
Manufacturer: Specialized
Type: Gravel Bike
Cost: $300 / trip
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Bring Your Own

Your bike is yours—we get it. Bringing your own bike has obvious advantages in terms of individual comfort. Before your trip, we suggest getting a tune-up at your local bike shop so it’s ready to roll for your week of riding. Once you arrive, we’ll be sure to have our mechanics build it and help with any necessary tweaks. Check out some helpful resources here:

Shipping your bike

Flying with your bike.

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Skip The Bike

If you or your travel partner want to enjoy the trip and explore a new destination without a bike, drop us a line and we’ll discuss options. Some trips are better suited for non-rider participants than others.

TRIP TEAM

GUEST REVIEWS

Share your trip experience with others by leaving a review.

LEAVE A REVIEW
Amy C., Steamboat Springs, CO
February 6, 2020
I've been to many cycling camps and this trip exceeded my expectations. The staff was engaged, fun, personable, helpful, competent and worked well as a team. The food had great variety, creative menus and plenty of it.
Jeffrey S., Eugene, CO
November 14, 2023
My wife and I have been participating in supported bicycle tours for over 20 years and have done every possible format. Cycling house is great because we got to stay in the same place with most rides directly from the "house". All of the staff were wonderful and we rented their bikes, which were excellent (they put my wife on a Moots!). We did Arizona mixed surface and the routes were superb. We loved the food and the house setup. We will be back for more trips with Cycling House.
Show All Reviews
Amy C., Steamboat Springs, CO
February 6, 2020
I've been to many cycling camps and this trip exceeded my expectations. The staff was engaged, fun, personable, helpful, competent and worked well as a team. The food had great variety, creative menus and plenty of it.
Jeffrey S., Eugene, CO
November 14, 2023
My wife and I have been participating in supported bicycle tours for over 20 years and have done every possible format. Cycling house is great because we got to stay in the same place with most rides directly from the "house". All of the staff were wonderful and we rented their bikes, which were excellent (they put my wife on a Moots!). We did Arizona mixed surface and the routes were superb. We loved the food and the house setup. We will be back for more trips with Cycling House.
Erik D., Oakville, Canada
January 21, 2024
Tucson gravel was 5star!!! Patagonia was incredible, meals were so delicious and so well thought out and the support staff where engaged and supportive and the accommodation was awesome! see you in Tuscany!
Diane D., El Dorado Hills, CA
February 14, 2022
I had an absolutely fantastic time at the Tucson Gravel Camp in February! This was my first time attending a cycling camp, and I couldn’t have been more impressed. Owen, Chloe, James and Corey were so welcoming and they were clearly focused on creating a wonderful experience for all of us. There were challenging rides in beautiful locations everyday, followed by happy hour treats and time to relax around the pool or in the spa in the afternoon. All the meals were awesome, too - so delicious, and healthy with lots of ethnic variety everyday. The home is absolutely beautiful as well as architecturally interesting, and my bedroom was very cozy and well-stocked with lots of special touches. I loved every minute of my time with Cycling House and look forward to attending one of Montana Camps next year.
Doug W., Omaha, NE
February 16, 2022
The Cycling House team in Tucson was fantastic. Owen, Corey, James, and Chloe made everyone feel at home in 'The House'. The accommodations, the setting, the food, are all over the top. The riding was perfect. A great combination of very challenging, long rides, and the appropriate recovery day in between all with perfect on-course support. I'll be back and I'm bringing more friends.
Will S., Denver, CO
February 24, 2022
The Cycling House is incredible at what they do — incredible staff, gorgeous trip locations and perfectly planned and executed logistics. They go above and beyond to ensure guests have to focus only on the cycling, and they anticipate and fulfill every other need imaginable. Could not recommend them more enthusiastically!
Brett W., San Francisco, CA
November 15, 2021
Had a fantastic week with The Cycling House in Tucson! The guides were all very friendly and really focused on us having a great experience. The facilities were great, and the food was fantastic! It was all around a great experience, and I will definitely be going on additional trips with The Cycling House in the future!
Dave V., Hartland, WI
November 13, 2023
Love the Cycling House trips! I did the Tucson Gravel in the Spring and the Tucson Road in the fall, both were amazing. I'm really looking forward to Mallorca in the Spring. The routes are amazing and provide options for additional miles if you are feeling strong or short cuts if you need a bit of rest. The accommodations were first class. The guides, chefs and mechanics made the trip. It was really fun spending time getting to know all of the other riders. If you enjoy biking, I would highly recommend you try a cycling house trip.
Mo E., Pittsburgh, PA
January 31, 2020
I had one of the best trips I have ever had. I signed up last minute since the hiking trip I was going to do sold out. Not an avid biker but really loved this trip that was actually challenging. Really good group of folks made it very comfortable. Super friendly and very knowledgeable about bikes and riding. Bike I rented was SUPERB! And much better than my own bike... The house is to die for; beautiful scenery and very comfortable. Food and stuff to eat were also great; I ate more good healthy food than I recall. Overall the attention to every detail was incredible.
Rob K., Portland, OR
February 1, 2020
Phenomenal experience. Extremely well run and accommodating of individual rider’s needs. No detail was left unaddressed. The rides were great and the staff was upbeat, engaging and helpful.
Susan K., Bend, OR
February 3, 2020
I had a fantastic time. I liked the routes, the guides, the chef, the food, the accommodations, The team does a great job all around. They are pros not just at cycling but also creating a sense of community among guests and the team. I'll be back!
Tracie W., Etobicoke, Ontario
March 12, 2020
"What a terrific week! I commend the guides and all those involved with making it such a high quality tour. Not to mention the wonderful guests, food and accommodation. This was my first experience in a yurt and I loved it! I thought the rides were well thought out in terms of distance and intensity leading up to the end of the week."
Steve J., Toronto, PA
February 7, 2020
Fantastic! Since 2001 I’ve been in the care of various cycle tour operators in many locations for over 40 weeks. I can’t remember having more fun.
Barbara B., Durango, CO
February 13, 2020
Awesome wonderful trip!! Loved it!! I enjoyed the whole trip!! From the courtesy pick-up, to bike set- up, each and every ride, skilled and capable guides, the healing energy of the sun and desert, magnificent beautiful house, hot tub, free time for solitude or socializing, tech talk by the mechanic, over the top abundant, delicious, and healthy food, morning yoga, friendly, fun top-notch staff, fun guests, lots of laughs, ping pong! I love desert riding! Beautiful all-around! So much gratitude! I highly recommend The Cycling House!
Andrew S., Seattle, WA
February 19, 2020
Great trip. Super well organized. The food was incredible. The staff do a great job and are really fun to spend time with.
Keith C., Parkville, MO
February 19, 2020
I really enjoyed the cheerfulness and helpfulness of the staff. I felt supported at all times, especially through a rough day. I appreciated all the tips they gave along the way. All of them were great, but I really enjoyed riding and interacting with Brendan!
Geoffrey H., Morristown, NJ
February 19, 2020
Great trip. Great guides, great routes, great food, great bikes... overall, a great experience. Great rides, gravel and road. The routes were well thought out, varied and I felt safe. Nice mix of flat and hills.
Mark C., San Jose, CA
February 19, 2020
Such an amazing trip! Memories to last a lifetime. Everyone was really nice. Wish I could of stayed longer. Food was awesome! Pizza night was my favorite. Everything was super fresh and healthy. Better food than what I eat at home!
James H., Birmingham, MI
February 24, 2020
It was outstanding. The organization was great, the people that ran the trip and participated in the rides were great - extremely nice and enjoyable people to be around. The house was amazing!
James B., Lincoln, NE
February 25, 2020
Well organized, executed, no issues.
Andy G., Franklin, TN
March 12, 2020
Fantastic! The Cycling House itself is a luxury. I've done over 5 trips with TCH and can't get enough.