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5 Top Motorcycle Routes to Show Low

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Arizona’s incredible landscapes and sunsets attract motorcycle riders from around the country. Whether a cyclist is looking for a casual day trip or a more intense journey, the Grand Canyon state beckons motorcyclists to venture out on the road. If riders are looking for rides in and around Show Low and the white mountains of Northeastern Arizona, there are several options that take riders through the world’s largest stand of towering ponderosa pines and the vast diversity of Arizona’s landscapes.

  1. In Show Low: If you are already in the Show Low, Arizona area try a short ride via Mountain Lake Boulevard, Arizona State Route 260, through Lakeside and Pinetop out toward Greer. It provides beautiful scenery, with great views of the many lakes and trees in the area.
    About 49 miles
  2. Show Low to Petrified Forest: Magical views can be found on another short ride from Show Low riding north toward Petrified Forest via AZ-61 E and US-180 W. The scenery offers incredible diversity with the stark beauty of striated bands of red and pink sandstone hills, oddly shaped tabletop mesas and the remnants of trees turned to stone.
    About 60 miles
  3. Globe to Show Low: One of the best, lesser-known motorcycle rides in Arizona is the motorcycle route from Globe to Show Low along Arizona Route 60 (US-60/AZ-77), taking you down and through the Salt River Canyon. The route features a nice, varied collection of turns and scenery, with hairpin turns near the Salt River as the rider navigates the curves with amazing views.
    About 87 miles
  4. Phoenix to Show Low: Looking to extend the above route from the Valley? From Phoenix start on the well-maintained US 60 east towards Mesa. Watch out for traffic until you near the Globe-Miami area where the highway opens up and the views of low-desert vistas extend for miles. From Globe, continue on the route above through the scenic, yet sometimes challenging Salt River Canyon turns.
    About 175 miles
  5. Tucson to Show Low: With so many people choosing to move from Tucson to Torreon, this route may offer a great first glimpse from Tucsonans to the White Mountain lifestyle. Stare east on I-10 to the US 191, exit north on the 191 through Safford and Clifton and then move on through the scenic Apache National forest, Alpine and eventually Show Low. Stop for a bite to eat before heading back south to Globe and Tucson on US 60 AZ77.
    About 530 miles – possible as a one day round trip

During the summer Arizona high country and Show Low experience heavier traffic, especially on holiday weekends as people escape the Valley heat in return for the cool mountain breezes. Cyclists should be aware of speed limits and invest in quality gear before they begin their ride.

Recommended supplies and equipment include:

  • Hydration systems/backpacks that transport water and make drinking convenient and efficient.
  • Cooling vests that soak up water and then release it over time to help carry away excess body heat.
  • Mesh motorcycle gear offers strength and breathability during motorcycle adventures.
  • Headwear controls sweat and decreases the chance of serious injuries.
  • Basic tools to help repair the bike in case of a breakdown. 
  • A fully-charged cell phone and an extra battery are helpful in case help is needed.
  • Food, including nuts, dried fruits, and veggies for the trip.

Memorable trips are the result of being prepared and traveling safely. Enjoy the trip!

Located just three hours from Phoenix in Show Low, Ariz., Torreon is a luxury golfing community nestled in the White Mountains. It offers convenience, world-class recreation, and amenities for the entire family. Offering everything from a sprawling outdoor pool, expansive fitness center to award-winning food at Torreon Grille as well as a family and game center, fishing pond and endless trails throughout the community, every member or guest is sure to enjoy time at Torreon. Learn more at https://torreon.com/

Contact Linda Cedarblade, designated broker for Torreon Realty at (928) 532-3030 or lrc@torreon.com for more information on gorgeous, high-country lots or move-in-ready Golf Villas nestled in the White Mountains.

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