Arivaca Series: 300k, 400k
The Arivaca Series will visit the southern reaches of Arizona, near the Mexican border.
But, before you head south, you will go north to escape the Tuscon Metropolis. This escape, while most are sleeping, should put you in the Saguaro National Park around sunrise. The photo below is a preview of the beauty you will encounter. Traffic will be light and the air will be crisp. The next 50 miles will take you south to the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge. In this area, you will see more Border Patrol than any others. Reaching Arivaca will give you a much needed break while you replenish your bottles and belly.
After Arivaca, there is a short climb followed by a long, and fun descent to Amado. Get your cameras ready for a selfie or group photo at the Longhorn Grille! It's a stop that no rider misses. From there, you'll continue your journey south visiting the small town of Tubac. 300k riders will turn around in Tubac and head back north. 400k riders will continue their journery south to Rio Rico. You'll then skirt Nogales (border town) and turn back north at Beyerville. This northerly turn will usher in a long and gradual (30 mile) climb. Patagonia and Sonoita will offer opportunities to water up, eat and rest a bit. If it's getting late, make sure to stock up in Patagonia! These are small towns and 24 hour convenience stores don't exist.
The high point of the 400k route is ~5200'. You can pretty much guarantee that it will be COLD from Sonoita to the finish. This arid, high elevation prarie holds none of the daily heat and the temperatures drop quickly when the sun gets low. Heed this warning and take extra layers for this return. You're welcome!
You will get about 30 miles of descending before you meet up with the 300k route near the Helmet Peak climb. Both routes will finish on identical roads after Helmet Peak. They will also both predominately descend all the way back to the finish.
Neither route has challenging climbs, but the length of the climbs will be fatiguing. The cold evenings can make for an uncomfortable finish if you're not prepared for it. The routes are fun to ride and are picturesque. Come on out and join us!
The 300k details may be found HERE
The 400k details may be found HERE
Last Minute Notes may be found HERE. This link will be valid once available, generally the day after registration closes. Please read them. There will be a lot of information posted there. I will also send them out to registered riders. If you don't receive them, please check your spam folder.
