The best cycling routes in Coconino County

Coconino County offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 80 routes available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 34 easy, 30 moderate, and 18 difficult options.

The touring cycling routes in Coconino County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from the red rock formations of Sedona to the expansive ponderosa pine forests.

For stunning red rock views, consider the Red Rock Scenic Byway. If you're looking for a route through forest roads with lake views, the Lake Mary Road loop is a great choice. For dramatic canyon scenery, the Grand Canyon Greenway Trail offers an unforgettable experience.

Yes, Coconino County is home to challenging routes like the Coconino Loop, a demanding bikepacking route spanning 240-250 miles. Segments of the 800-mile Arizona National Scenic Trail (AZT) also pass through the county, offering extensive unpaved surfaces and significant elevation changes for experienced touring cyclists.

Coconino County offers incredibly diverse terrain. You'll find everything from high desert landscapes and flatlands to dense ponderosa pine forests, alpine tundra, and ancient volcanic peaks. Routes can range from paved scenic byways to rugged singletrack and forest roads, often with significant elevation changes.

While specific family-friendly touring routes are not detailed in the guide data, the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) offers a 56-mile non-motorized network that includes easier, paved sections suitable for families. Additionally, Fort Tuthill County Park has a bike park and extensive trail system with options for various skill levels.

You can explore various natural landmarks. Near Sedona, you'll find the iconic red rock formations. The Grand Canyon's South Rim is accessible via the Grand Canyon Greenway Trail. Other notable points include Point Imperial Viewpoint and the San Francisco Peaks. The region also features volcanic sites like Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

The best time for touring cycling generally depends on the elevation. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures across most areas. Summer can be hot in lower desert regions but is ideal for higher elevations like the San Francisco Peaks. Winter brings snow to higher areas, making some routes inaccessible, but lower elevation routes might still be rideable.

Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. The Lake Mary Road loop is a popular option. For those exploring the Grand Canyon area, the Arizona Trail North Rim Loop and East Rim and Arizona Trail Loop provide scenic circular tours.

Absolutely. You can cycle a section of the historic Route 66 on the Gran Canyon Caverns to Seligman via Route 66 route. Additionally, the Red Rock Scenic Byway offers a picturesque ride through Sedona's iconic landscape.

Near the Grand Canyon, you can explore routes like the Grand Canyon Greenway Trail on the South Rim. On the North Rim, consider the Cape Royal Drive, which leads to stunning viewpoints like Point Imperial Viewpoint. Another option is the Point Imperial via Cape Royal Road.