The best cycling routes around Mountainaire

There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Mountainaire, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore the region.

Touring cycling routes in Mountainaire feature diverse terrain, from extensive ponderosa pine and aspen forests providing shaded paths to high desert and alpine environments. You can expect stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks and Mount Elden, with some routes offering flat, scenic sections around Lower Lake Mary and others involving significant elevation gain.

Yes, Mountainaire offers several easy touring cycling routes suitable for families or those seeking a relaxed ride. One popular option is the Flagstaff – Historical Route 66 loop from Flagstaff, an easy 10.78-mile path that follows a section of the historic highway. Another great choice is the Flagstaff – Downtown Flagstaff loop from Flagstaff, a shorter 6.04-mile route through the city.

For experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge, Mountainaire has several difficult routes. The Lake Mary Road loop is a difficult 49.45-mile trail known for its wide bicycle lanes and incredible views of the San Francisco Peaks. Another demanding option is the Interstate Tank loop from Northern Arizona University, which covers about 30 miles with notable elevation changes.

Many touring cycling routes in Mountainaire offer access to interesting sights. You can cycle past Lower Lake Mary, known for its scenic beauty and wildlife viewing. The area also features Fisher Point Overlook for panoramic views, and the historic Downtown Flagstaff area. Some routes might even bring you close to unique natural features like the Overhang at Arizona Trail.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Mountainaire are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Lake Mary Road loop, the Flagstaff – Historical Route 66 loop from Flagstaff, and the Fort Tuthill County Park loop from Ponderosa Trails.

The best time for touring cycling in Mountainaire, Arizona, is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months. The region's high elevation (7,000 to over 9,000 feet) means pleasant temperatures during warmer months, offering a refreshing escape from lower desert heat. Fall brings beautiful foliage, especially in the aspen forests. Winters can be cold with snow, making some routes less accessible for touring cycling.

The touring cycling routes around Mountainaire are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the stunning natural beauty, including the extensive ponderosa pine forests and the majestic views of the San Francisco Peaks. The variety of terrain, from flat sections to challenging climbs, and the well-maintained trails are also frequently highlighted.

While this guide focuses on touring cycling, the Mountainaire area, particularly near Flagstaff, is also excellent for bikepacking and mountain biking. The surrounding Coconino National Forest offers numerous dirt roads and singletrack trails suitable for these activities, including routes like the 'Round the Mountain' which encircles Humphreys Peak, and the Mount Elden/Dry Lake Hills Trail System accessible from Schultz Trailhead.

Many touring cycling routes in the Mountainaire area, especially those near Flagstaff, have designated parking areas at trailheads or nearby parks. For routes like the Fort Tuthill County Park loop from Ponderosa Trails, parking is typically available within or near the park facilities. For specific routes, checking the route details on komoot will often provide information on starting points and parking availability.

Yes, the Flagstaff – Historical Route 66 loop from Flagstaff offers a unique cycling experience by following a section of the iconic Historic Route 66. This allows cyclists to immerse themselves in a piece of American history while enjoying the scenic landscape.