Desert Trails Park in Mesa is unique in that it’s not a playground park – it’s a bike park! And an epic one at that. This is a teenagers dream, with 37 acres of dirt bike paths, while also welcoming to younger children that may be still learning the ropes of trail riding to try out smaller paths. We don’t know of any park like this in the Phoenix area!
Check out this map when you first arrive, located at the parking lot by the ramada, to familiarize yourself with the trails available. As you can see, the majority of the park is open dirt trails. Experienced trail riders might want to just start exploring! If you need some practice, or are a beginner, head over to the beginner track just beyond the ramada.
The skills track was perfect for our 8 year old to get adjusted to the ups and downs found in trail riding. It’s a small area, but sufficient for practice and has lots of variety in types of ramps. One even is a see-saw type, so watch out!
Down the hill to the right of the ramada is another beginner track. This one has more small hills than ramps. It’s another great place to practice! Our daughter preferred the skills track over the pump track.
There’s also a 3/4 mile loop of trail at this point, for those wanting to test their skills without committing to the longer and more difficult trails. We didn’t explore this portion but will next time!
While this bike park is open to everyone, we have a few suggestions to offer. First, balance bikes and scooters would work ok (the former more than the latter), but not bicycles with training wheels, or tricycles. The ramps are simple not wide enough. Second, unless there is no one else using the skills track or pump track, keep little ones off so that older children can ride safely. We witnessed a wipeout as a beginner swerved to miss a running toddler on the track. The pump track may be better suited for younger ones on balance bikes.
Also, please wear appropriate footwear and helmets, even on the beginner tracks! The ground may be dirt and not concrete, but it’s hard packed dirt and could cause injury.
We were so glad to have bookmarked this park, and can’t wait to go back! Two thumbs up to the City of Mesa for this unique addition to the area.
Desert Trails Park in Mesa is open sunrise to sunset, and is closed if it’s raining or if the trails are muddy. It is located at the northeast corner of McDowell and Reckner. There is a 30 space parking lot and restrooms. Picnic tables, with two being shaded, are also available.
Desert Trails Park
2955 N Recker Rd
Mesa, AZ 85215
480-644-7529
parksrecinfo@mesaaz.gov
Looking for more activities in the Mesa area? Check out our favorites here, with indoor and outdoor ideas for all ages.
