The best cycling routes around Fort Valley

The area that Flagstaff sits on has been a crossroads and gathering point for centuries. Many Native people have, and continue, to call the area home. Evidence of their history and ties to the area can be found at the nearby Walnut Canyon and Wupatki National Monuments. Also, Flagstaff sits along the world-famous Route 66, giving it a rich roadside attraction element that only towns along Route 66 can have. Those biking along Route 66 or the Arizona Trail will cross paths here, and perhaps the road and dirt riders will share stories of their different journeys over a beer at one of the excellent breweries in town. Flagstaff is a full service town with everything and outdoor adventurer could need, including bike shops, cafes and restaurants, grocery stores, and many great lodging options. If your legs need a rest for a day or two make Flagstaff your home for a while, you won't regret it.

This is a small paved segment of the FUTS trail system that connects South Walapai Drive to J W Powell Boulevard, where the JWP section of the trail system picks up along the south side of the road.

Flagstaff is a picturesque mountain town and due to its high elevation, it's a runner's paradise. Whether you’re a local or from out of town, you can easily find company for a run. Athletes from all around the world, including NAZ Elite runners, NCAA champions and World Champions—who all come to train here to prepare for their championship seasons. As the saying goes about training in the high altitudes, “there's gold in the hills!”

Much of the Historic Route 66 has been paved over by more modern Highways and Interstates. However, here in Flagstaff this trail aims to preserve a bit of automotive history by allowing people to explore the historic route by foot or by bike.

Lower Lake Mary is sometimes there and sometimes not. During dry spells, the water level tends to be somewhat on the low side. Either way, it makes for a great bike section for its entire length. The views out over the lake are beautiful, and it's a great place for wildlife. You could see elk, deer, bald eagles, or blue herons. It is also a popular place for cyclists. The level road and the pretty much uninterrupted views of the surrounding countryside might have something to do with it.

With its highest point reaching 9,288 feet, it is a formidable challenge for cyclists. The most popular route, Elden Lookout Road, is a 12.5-mile climb with an elevation gain of over 3,500 feet, testing your endurance and legs. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the San Francisco Peaks, the city of Flagstaff, and the surrounding valleys, making the effort truly worthwhile.

Upper Lake Mary is the biggest of Flagstaff's two lakes. It is a long, narrow reservoir, and here in the day-use area, you just get great views of the reservoir. There are picnic tables, barbeque grills, and toilets here. It is a popular place, and in the springtime, and really for most of the summer, the views are super nice and awash with wild flowers.

Lower Lake Mary is sometimes there and sometimes not. During dry spells, the water level tends to be somewhat on the low side. Either way, it makes for a great bike section for its entire length. The views out over the lake are beautiful, and it's a great place for wildlife. You could see elk, deer, bald eagles, or blue herons. It is also a popular place for cyclists. The level road and the pretty much uninterrupted views of the surrounding countryside might have something to do with it.