Usery Loop and Salt River

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Mesa, AZ, US

Route Overview

East Side Cycling

Mountain/Road Biking

27 mi.

1,498 ft.

A loop that includes the scenic area just below Saguaro Lake and the ever popular Usery loop.

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Route Details

This is a moderately hilly route that takes the rider through some of the best scenery the East Valley has to offer.  Great views of Red Mountain, riding along the Salt River, impressive cliffs, a longish climb up the backside of usery pass and then back to home.

This route starts at the corner of @point[Thomas and Power](d,2.79).  There is a Walgreens on the corner and the last word was they didn't mind people parking in the back.  You head north on Power into an ever improving view of Red Mountain @slice[as you approach a steep downhill known to locals as Kong](d,2716.71,3614.22).  At the bottom you will ride along the side of the Salt River until you start to climb up the hill known as little Kong.  @slice[It is only a mile or so of 5 - 6 percent grade](d,5360.91,6911.07).  Upon cresting, you will enter a flat section and then at the four way stop sign,  you will have the choice to take a right and shorten your ride by a few miles, or proceeed to do @slice[a quick out and back to the Cliffs just below Saguaro lake and the Water Users area](d,11463.53,25304.12).  This entire route has good shoulder for the most part.  There are some fun rollers as you head out to the cliffs and back. Once back at the four way you @slice[have a 4 mile hill that is a pretty constant 5-6% grade](d,24953.95,31003.65).  A lot of locals train on this hill.  It's not too bad if you are just patient,  often times it doesn't look that steep but your legs will say otherwise!  Just over the top of Usery Pass is the @poi[Visitor center](1319051) on the left where there is a drinking fountain if you are out of water.  Once past the park entrance you have @slice[a nice descent to McDowell road](d,31003.65,34857.91) and then as a parting shot @slice[a short climb up Hawes](d,36690.62,38978.21) and a descent through Las Sendas back to your car.

# Water Sources

The only potable water source on the route is after most of the climbing is done at the top of Usery so be sure to take enough water.

Usery Loop and Salt River

Route Overview

Route Details

Other routes by East Side Cycling

Hawes Wild Horse

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