The best road cycling routes around Mountainaire

Komoot features 6 road cycling routes around Mountainaire, offering a variety of experiences through the Coconino National Forest. These routes range from easy loops around lakes to more challenging rides with significant elevation gain.

Road cycling in Mountainaire is characterized by its stunning natural setting within the Coconino National Forest. You'll ride through dense Ponderosa pine forests, enjoy views of prominent mountain peaks like the San Francisco Peaks, and cycle alongside scenic lakes such as Lower Lake Mary and Mormon Lake. The diverse landscape provides a refreshing escape into nature.

The road cycling routes around Mountainaire are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 12 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the continuous scenic views, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Ponderosa pine forests and serene lakes.

Yes, Mountainaire offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. A popular choice is the Lower Lake Mary – Lower Lake Mary loop from Fort Tuthill, an easy 30.2-mile path that circles Lower Lake Mary, providing generally level terrain and continuous scenic views.

While the listed komoot routes are mostly easy to moderate, the region around Mountainaire does offer more challenging options. For instance, the Flagstaff to Snow Bowl via North Snow Bowl Road is a demanding 30.8-mile route with a significant elevation gain of 2,826 feet, rewarding cyclists with breathtaking mountain vistas. Another route, Flagstaff to Sedona via 89A, is classified as difficult with over 1,300 meters of elevation gain.

Many road cycling routes in Mountainaire are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A favorite is the Canyon Vista Campground to Mormon Lake loop via Lake Mary Road, a moderate 46.4-mile trail through pine forests and past lake views. Another option is the Mormon Lake Lodge Pond – Upper Lake Mary Overlook loop from Lowell Observatory - Anderson Mesa Station, which covers 37.9 miles.

Road cycling routes in Mountainaire offer numerous scenic viewpoints. You'll often find continuous views of Lower Lake Mary and Mormon Lake. The Fisher Point Overlook, accessible near some routes, provides stunning vistas of Walnut Canyon, Flagstaff, and the Elden Peaks set against the San Francisco Peaks. The region's Ponderosa pine forests also create beautiful, immersive scenery.

Absolutely! While cycling, you'll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the Coconino National Forest. Keep an eye out for wildlife around Lower Lake Mary, including elk, deer, and various bird species. The majestic San Francisco Peaks dominate the skyline, and you might even pass through beautiful aspen groves, such as Aspen Corner, on routes heading towards Snow Bowl.

The best time for road cycling in Mountainaire is typically from late spring through early fall. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the routes are clear of snow. Summer offers warm days, while spring and fall provide cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, especially in aspen groves.

Yes, the generally level terrain around Lower Lake Mary makes for excellent family-friendly cycling. Routes like the Lower Lake Mary loop from Flagstaff offer an easy, scenic ride suitable for various skill levels, allowing families to enjoy the outdoors together.

Many road cycling routes around Mountainaire start from accessible points with parking. For example, the Lower Lake Mary – Lower Lake Mary loop begins near Fort Tuthill, which typically has parking facilities. Routes originating from Canyon Vista Campground or near Lowell Observatory - Anderson Mesa Station also offer starting points where parking is generally available.

While many routes in the Coconino National Forest are through natural areas, some routes pass by or are near small communities or facilities. For example, the Mormon Lake Lodge is located near the Canyon Vista Campground to Mormon Lake loop, offering potential stops. For more extensive amenities, the nearby city of Flagstaff provides numerous cafes and services.