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Routes
Road cycling routes
United States
Arizona
Maricopa County
Scottsdale

Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt loop

Moderate

4.8

(8098)

8,099

riders

Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt loop

04:00

83.6km

310m

Road cycling

Cycle the 51.9-mile Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt loop in Scottsdale, a moderate route through parks, golf courses, and desert scenery.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

1.81 km

Taliesin West

Highlight • Historical Site

Taliesin West served as the winter home of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. These days the home has been converted into an architectural school. Anybody with an interest in design will enjoy a visit.

Tip by

2

13.5 km

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Highlight • Cafe

If you need a coffee, tea, or snack this is a good place to stop. They have a good selection of interesting teas in addition to the standard fair of coffee and pastries. The building is clean and staff are friendly and efficient.

Tip by

3

21.8 km

Camelback Park

Highlight • Rest Area

Located along the Indian Bend Wash Greenway, Camelback Park is an oasis in the desert. The park has a small lake, great multi-use paths, and large open areas for picnicking. If you need a destination or place for a break on your ride, you could do much worse than this.

Tip by

4

27.5 km

Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

This greenbelt runs for 11 miles through the center of Scottsdale. It passes a number of parks, small lakes, & golf courses and is a great place for a leisurely ride.

Tip by

5

31.3 km

Salt River View

Highlight • Viewpoint

This is where the intermittent Salt River flows into Tempe Town Lake. The water level varies throughout the year as much of the river is held in reservoirs and used as drinking water for the Phoenix Metro Area.

Tip by

6

51.0 km

The Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum is a must for anyone with even a passing interest in aviation. They have a number of historic aircraft that you can climb aboard and if that isn't enough you can book a flight on one of 6 different restored WWII aircraft.

Tip by

B

83.6 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

51.6 km

13.2 km

9.84 km

8.36 km

601 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

68.9 km

12.2 km

2.46 km

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (580 m)

Lowest point (360 m)

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Weather

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Sunday 17 May

33°C

21°C

-- %

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt loop?

The Greenbelt runs through numerous parks, many of which offer parking. Popular access points include Chaparral Park, Camelback Park, and Eldorado Park. These parks often have facilities like restrooms and picnic areas.

Is the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the Greenbelt is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs should always be kept on a leash, and you should be mindful of other users on the multi-use path. Always clean up after your pet.

What is the best time of year to cycle the Greenbelt?

The best time to cycle is typically during the cooler months, from fall through spring (October to April), when temperatures are more pleasant. Summer can be extremely hot, making early morning or late evening rides necessary. The path is mostly lit at night, offering flexibility.

Are there any permits or fees required to cycle the Greenbelt?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and cycle the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt loop. It is a public multi-use path.

What is the terrain like on the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt loop?

The terrain is primarily flat and consists of a paved, multi-use path, making it ideal for road cycling. There are numerous grade-separated crossings (underpasses and overpasses) that help you avoid major road traffic for an uninterrupted ride.

Is this route suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the Greenbelt is considered an easy and accessible ride, making it very suitable for beginners and families. Its flat terrain and wide, paved surfaces are welcoming for cyclists of all skill levels.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the Greenbelt?

You'll experience a diverse landscape, often described as an 'oasis' in the desert. The path winds through lush parks with ponds, streams, and fountains, alongside golf courses, and occasionally features towering Saguaro cacti. You might also spot waterfowl near the waterways.

Are there any notable points of interest along the way?

Absolutely! The route passes by several interesting spots. You can see Taliesin West, the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum, and enjoy views from Salt River View. The path itself is a highlight, known as the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, and it also goes through Camelback Park.

Are there places to eat or drink near the Greenbelt?

Yes, there are various dining and drinking establishments conveniently located near the Greenbelt. For a quick stop, you can find places like The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf directly along the route or nearby.

Does the Greenbelt connect to other cycling paths?

Yes, the Greenbelt offers excellent connectivity. Its southern end connects to paths along Tempe Town Lake, and it also links to other regional trails such as the Rio Salado Pathway and the Arizona Canal Path. The route itself incorporates sections of the Maricopa Trail and the Sun Circle Trail.

Is there a recommended direction to cycle the loop for an easier ride?

Some cyclists report that riding from the north to the south end of the Greenbelt can feel easier due to a slight downhill grade in that direction. Consider this if you're looking for a less strenuous experience.

What should I know about potential flooding on the Greenbelt?

While generally smooth, the underpasses along the Greenbelt can occasionally flood during infrequent rain events. It's important to avoid entering any flooded areas for your safety.

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