Granite Mountain – 15 Mile Training Ride

Scottsdale Mountain Bikers is teaming up with the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy to offer fun and educational group rides.

Description of the Ride: This 15 mile training ride will cover some beautiful trails in the Granite mountain area in east Browns Ranch. Riders should have good cardio and intermediate technical skills. The main objectives of the ride are to build stamina and improve riding techniques — and to have fun with a great group!

This event will carry through to the Conservancy’s 20 mile fitness ride in January 2027, and the 30 mile fitness ride in February 2027. Up your riding level over the winter and join us for this fitness series.

This is a FREE EVENT led by the Conservancy. To join this event:

1. Please click ATTEND on this event in Meetup
2. You must also sign up on the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy website, here is the link. https://mcdowellsonoran.org/event/ride-granite-mountain-15-mile-training-ride-2/

Distance & Elevation Gain: This ride will be 15 miles with 700 feet of elevation gain at an intermediate pace of appx 9mph. We will make several stops for rest and to get to know our fellow riders.

Difficulty Level: This intermediate ride will take appx 3 hours, with a moderate level of climbing. Pace will be steady at 8-10mph. All our rides are “No Drop” meaning no rider will be left behind the group.

Mountain Bike Event Requirements: Helmets are mandatory for all bike events. A mountain bike with wide knobby tires is required – please, no road bikes, hybrids, or folding bikes. Your bike must be in good working order – please check the tires, brakes, chain and general functionality before leaving home.

E-bikes are allowed. You are expected to ride at the group speed and be cautious about passing or encountering others on the trails.

What to Bring: A backpack with 2-3 liters of water, spare tubes and tools plus energy snacks. Restrooms are available at the trailhead. It’s always smart to have a paper map or mapping app in case you get separated from the group.

Arrive 15 minutes before start of the ride for check-in and a brief bike inspection.