Hot Loop

Hot Loop is a short, intense mountain biking route in Arizona's Red Rock Ranger District of Coconino National Forest, managed by the Forest Service. The trail is a compact out-and-back of about 0.78 miles, but it packs in a steep, technical ride with a front-loaded climb that reaches a high point of 4,997 feet. The route is rated hard, and it demands advanced skills to handle the loose rock and steep sections that make up the terrain. The climb starts at about 4,517 feet and rises to nearly 5,000 feet within the first 0.18 miles, with the steepest grade reaching 21 percent. The total elevation gain is 677 feet, and the round trip covers about 1.6 miles. The trail's short length means every pedal stroke counts, and the desert setting adds to the challenge of the ride. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times to go. Typical averages from the nearby Oak Creek Canyon weather station show October highs around 74°F with lows near 44°F, while July highs reach about 90°F. Hot Loop A #40A is a hiking route just 0.1 mile away, and Hot Loop #40 is about 0.6 mile off. Climbers can head to Oak Creek Spire, about 2.2 miles away, and Chavez Crossing campground is roughly 5.7 miles from the trail.