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Pemberton is close to 16 miles of trail. About 2/3 singletrack and 1/3 jeep road. The only reason I don’t ride Pemberton more often…the race loops. If I’m going to drive an hour to get to the trailhead I’d rather hit fast and fun singletrack than grunt uphill on Pemberton and then push through the jeep road. There are some great sections, just not enough to keep me coming back for more.

Every time I’m on Pemberton I wish I was back on the race loops or on the Sonoran Preserve. I’d rather do the long loop twice than Pemberton once. It’s a good trail, and very worthy of riding. Everyone should ride Pemberton at least once. I’m just not a big fan, so don’t take my word for it. Read the reviews on MTBR and go ride it yourself. No love for Pemberton.

During the summer months the McDowell Mountain Park offers moonlight rides on Pemberton. Maybe Pemberton is more fun at night? I’ll have to give it a try.

Maricopa Park Map (Updated May 6, 2009)

McDowell Mountain Cycles