New mountain bikers of any age from toddlers to retirees can (and do) ride along this forgiving trail without fear. It gradually slopes 150 feet up a 1.2-mile path before it branches off to the National Trail and gets "technical" — meaning steep, rocky and spine-jangling. But it's not boring. You'll stay entertained with hills and valleys along the climb, and once you turn around at the bench, it's a free-wheeling "wheeee" the whole way back. The scenery is another draw. Once you're a few feet into the canyon, the city drops away and you're enveloped within a serene desert oasis surrounded by all sorts of Sonoran flora and fauna. Yes, this is a busy trail used by hikers, dog walkers and equestrians, but it's also wide, so as long as you stay alert and yield to them, you're fine (although a handlebar bell is recommended to announce yourself). And if you're interested in trying a mountain e-bike, which makes the sport accessible for most fitness levels, Bike Masters of Ahwatukee offers free loaners on Friday mornings from fall through spring.