The Gravel House

Explore Southern Arizona on two wheels at this bike-themed Patagonia guest ranch.

The rustic yet stylishly appointed units at this high-desert property sit just steps from some of the top gravel cycling and trail systems in the state, namely the Patagonia 50, a moderate 50-mile loop that ribbons through the bucolic beauty of the San Rafael Valley. Book either the Straw Bale House or Raven’s Nest; both offer full kitchens, quaint patios and bike maintenance and cleaning stations. $170-240/night, 316 Naugle Ave., Patagonia, 406-370-4573, thegravelhouse.com

3 Patagonia Excursions

Arizona National Scenic Trail

Casa Blanca Canyon Trailhead is your gateway to the Arizona Trail’s Passage 4, a 21-mile sweep through Sky Islands ecosystems like grasslands, oak savannah and pine forest. Free, aztrail.org  

Patagonia Lake State Park

Cool off in this 250-acre lake or ply its placid surface in a pontoon, canoe or paddleboat (prices vary per watercraft) available to rent at Patagonia Lake Marina. $20/vehicle day-use permit, azstateparks.com/patagonia-lake 

Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve

At this wildlife-rife preserve managed by The Nature Conservancy, a 2.1-mile hiking loop follows a converted railroad line along Sonoita Creek, past sun-drenched meadows and through a riparian corridor of flitting birds and butterflies. $8/person,  santacruzheritage.org/patagonia-sonoita-creek