Payson, Arizona: A Mountain Biking Hub in the Making with 64+ Miles of New Trails

Payson, Arizona, is on the cusp of becoming a major destination for mountain biking enthusiasts, with an ambitious plan to develop over 64 miles of new singletrack trails. This extensive network, currently in various stages of planning and construction, promises to transform the region into a world-class biking hub. Local advocates and volunteer organizations are spearheading these efforts, envisioning a future where interconnected trails offer diverse riding experiences, from high-elevation routes to beginner-friendly paths, significantly enhancing Payson's appeal within the mountain biking community.

One of the most exciting developments is the 6.5-mile trail on Strawberry Mountain. Situated at an elevation exceeding 6,000 feet, this high-altitude trail is already partially complete, with the first 3.5 miles receiving rave reviews from local riders. Trevor Creighton, President of the Rim Country Mountain Bike Association (RCMBA), enthusiastically shared, “It’s incredibly well-designed; the initial section is phenomenal.” This trail is particularly crucial for the annual Fire on the Rim mountain bike race, as its completion will provide an accessible course throughout the year, removing reliance on private land. Construction was temporarily paused for environmental reasons but is expected to resume in the fall, with completion anticipated by the end of 2026.

Further enhancing the area’s trail offerings, the Pine-Strawberry Fuel Reduction (PSFR) volunteer group, in collaboration with the Forest Service, is extending the Pine-Strawberry Loop with an additional 2.5 miles. This group, initially focused on fire prevention, has evolved to become a driving force in trail building. Comprised largely of local retirees, these dedicated volunteers meet regularly to construct and maintain trails, fueled by a passion for outdoor activity and community enhancement. This new connector will link the Strawberry Mountain Trail to the existing Pine-Strawberry Loop, creating a more expansive and continuous riding experience, though its completion is projected for around 2030.

Another significant project by PSFR is the 5-mile Pine to Red Rock Spring Connector. This trail aims to establish a loop with the 63-mile Highline Trail, offering more varied options for riders. PSFR volunteers have already begun preliminary work using donated equipment, anticipating that their efforts will maximize the impact of a secured $150,000 grant. This strategic approach ensures that even before a contractor is selected, substantial progress is made, enabling greater overall mileage development.

In Payson itself, the Granite Dells area, affectionately known as “The Boulders,” is set for a 15-mile expansion. What began as informal paths has now seen 8 miles officially sanctioned, providing a technical playground at the town's edge. RCMBA's vision for this area includes creating a dedicated trailhead to alleviate neighborhood impact and introducing green-rated trails at lower elevations to cater to beginners—a currently unmet need in Payson. With funding already secured for the initial phase, future plans include adding more challenging trails, transforming Granite Dells into a comprehensive network offering extensive riding choices.

Looking ahead, the Houston Mesa area, a large campground within the Tonto National Forest, is slated for a substantial 20-mile trail expansion. This development is expected to feature diverse terrain, stunning vistas, and excellent pedaling sections, potentially establishing it as a prime venue for future races. The plans for Houston Mesa were submitted to the USFS in early 2026, and the community awaits environmental approval. The ultimate goal is the ambitious Rim Country Connector, a 15-mile trail linking Pine and Payson, designed to create a cohesive and sustainable system. While still in its early stages and requiring extensive surveying and environmental review, this connector represents the "final golden spike" in establishing Payson's interconnected trail system, projected to be completed within three to five years after the Houston Mesa network.

Beyond these planned projects, discussions are also underway for an expansion of the Ubuntu Trail, a 3-mile loop built for racing on town land. There's potential to acquire adjacent Forest Service land to create an even longer, dedicated bike-specific race course, leveraging the area's natural topography. The long-term vision extends to encircling Payson with a trail system akin to Prescott’s Circle Trail, connecting all four quadrants of the town. This comprehensive approach, championed by dedicated individuals and organizations, ensures that Payson will continue to evolve, offering new and exciting trails for mountain bikers to explore year after year, solidifying its place as an exceptional outdoor adventure destination.