Watch for Cyclists as El Tour de Zona Returns to Cochise County

El Tour de Zona ia back. This annual event is becoming increasingly popular. Mark you calendar, because the event happens next weekend, April 9–12.

Cyclists and visitors come from all across the country, and even around the world, to cycle through Cochise County. Once again, organizers expect attendees from more than thirty states and multiple countries.

For three days, cyclists will explore Sierra Vista, Bisbee, and Tombstone. They’ll ride by day, and enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, food trucks, and craft beer in Veterans Memorial Park in Sierra Vista.

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A Boost for Local Tourism

According to a press release from the City of Sierra Vista, this event is a great boon for our area. The event attracts over 500 riders, plus their families and support crews, who participate in El Tour de Zona.

According to the City of Sierra Vista, this is the fifth year the event has taken place, and it brings folks from at least 24 states and four countries to Sierra Vista and our surrounding communities. Over 30 percent of registrants travel to this event from outside of Arizona.

This event brings a welcome surge of visitors who will spend time in our local hotels, restaurants, shops, and other attractions throughout Cochise County.

The event is a “vacation on wheels,” and participants are encouraged to stay multiple nights and explore our area’s unique communities.

This is a great addition to our local economy. This multi‑day tourism occasion has a measurable economic impact, which helps our local businesses, something we can certainly use in today’s economy.

READ ALSO: Enjoying Nature: The Mental Health Benefits Of Arizona's Outdoors

Cochise County Road Closures & Safety Reminders

We want to keep all of the riders safe over the weekend. El Tour de Zona covers major routes around the city and county, including the scenic loops to Ramsey Canyon, Bisbee, and Tombstone.

It’s important to plan ahead throughout the weekend. Drivers should expect delays, particularly during key times.

For example, Charleston Road will be closed between Moson Road and Louis Road during the Tombstone ride window, with access limited to emergency vehicles and local residents.

READ MORE: Sierra Vista Earns Bronze-Level Bicycle Friendly Status

Click here for a complete list of closures and alternate routes.

As you drive around Cochise County next weekend, plan ahead, take an alternate route if necessary, allow extra travel time, and stay alert for cyclists. These precautions help keep both riders and drivers safe as the community hosts this large‑scale event.

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