The best cycling routes around Timberline-Fernwood
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Touring cycling around Timberline-Fernwood, Arizona, offers diverse routes through a high-altitude, mountainous environment. The region is characterized by striking volcanic landscapes, including areas shaped by ancient lava flows and cinder cones, providing a unique backdrop for rides. Extensive ponderosa pine and aspen forests cover the area, contributing to scenic routes and cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Timberline-Fernwood provides direct access to the Coconino National Forest, an expansive area with varied ecosystems.
Best touring cycling routes around Timberline-Fernwood
- The most popular…
Last updated: July 13, 2026
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(1)
17
riders
21.5km
01:18
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
35.5km
02:52
430m
430m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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13
riders
22.7km
02:26
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
30.9km
02:07
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
20.7km
01:19
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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.
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Lockett Meadow is an incredible scenic area and has great views of the surrounding mountains. The trail to get up the Locket Meadow is rough in places, but it's worth the effort for the amazing setting.
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Check trail conditions before you go—this area can be muddy or snow-covered well into spring. The climb up is steep and challenging, but the views of the Inner Basin are worth it. Be ready for narrow switchbacks, loose rock, and hikers on the trail. A solid set of tires and good brakes make all the difference on the descent.
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The most northern section of the Karen Cooper Trail passes through Cheshire Park, which backs up to a fair bit of Open Space. This is a popular spot for people walking their dogs or people looking for some quiet green space.
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The Karen Cooper Trail is part of the Flagstaff Urban Trail System and passes right below the Anasazi Ridge neighborhood. There is a head-on view of Elden Mountain from the path. If heading north from here on the trail, be aware that there is a trail intersection coming up in just a couple hundred yards.
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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!”
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The Schultz Trailhead in Flagstaff is a gateway to the Mount Elden/Dry Lake Hills Trail System. These trails are open to mountain biking and horseback riding through ponderosa pine forests and seasonal wildflower fields. The trailhead connects to routes like the Schultz Creek Trail, known for its moderate elevation changes and natural beauty. There are no restrooms, and trail closures are checked for in winter when access roads are affected by snow.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Timberline-Fernwood?
The Timberline-Fernwood area offers diverse terrain for touring cyclists. You can expect striking volcanic landscapes, including areas shaped by ancient lava flows and cinder cones. Routes often wind through extensive ponderosa pine and aspen forests, providing scenic views and cooler temperatures at higher elevations within the mountainous environment.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?
Yes, there are easy routes available for touring cyclists. For example, the Historical Route 66 – Flagstaff loop from Flagstaff Mall is an easy 12.4-mile ride. Another accessible option is the Buffalo Park – Old Duck Pond loop from Coconino High School, which is 6.6 miles long.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the region offers more difficult routes. The Lockett Meadow loop from Eighty-nine Tank is a difficult 14.1-mile route featuring significant elevation gain through forested terrain, taking approximately 2 hours 25 minutes to complete.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
The area is rich in natural beauty and landmarks. You might encounter volcanic landscapes, ponderosa pine forests, and views of the San Francisco Peaks, including Humphreys Peak. The Elden Mountain Lookout Tower offers stunning views, and you can explore the unique red and black landscape shaped by lava flows at Sunset Crater via the Lava Flow Trail.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. Examples include the challenging Lockett Meadow loop from Eighty-nine Tank, the moderate Historical Route 66 loop from Coconino High School, and the easy Historical Route 66 – Flagstaff loop from Flagstaff Mall.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Timberline-Fernwood?
The mountainous environment and ponderosa pine forests provide cooler temperatures, making late spring through early fall generally ideal for touring cycling. Summer offers a refreshing escape from hotter climates, while spring and fall provide pleasant weather and vibrant scenery.
Are there any historical routes or points of interest for touring cyclists?
Yes, the area features routes that incorporate historical elements. The Historical Route 66 loop from Coconino High School and the Historical Route 66 – Flagstaff loop from Flagstaff Mall both follow sections of the iconic historic Route 66, offering a blend of open stretches and views of the surrounding landscape.
What is Buffalo Park and is it accessible for touring cyclists?
Buffalo Park, located in Flagstaff and accessible from Timberline-Fernwood, features a relatively flat and smooth main loop suitable for all ages and skill levels. It also provides access to other trails, including sections of the Arizona Trail, with views of Elden Mountain and Mount Humphreys. The Buffalo Park – Old Duck Pond loop from Coconino High School is an easy touring cycling route that incorporates this area.
What kind of forests will I cycle through?
You will primarily cycle through extensive ponderosa pine and aspen forests. These forests are characteristic of the region's mountainous environment and provide scenic routes, shade, and cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations.
Are there any waterfalls in the vicinity of Timberline-Fernwood?
Yes, the Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve, located near Flagstaff, features a year-round waterfall and is an important wildlife corridor. While not directly on the listed touring cycling routes, it's a notable natural attraction in the broader area.
What is the highest point visible from the cycling routes?
The San Francisco Peaks dominate the skyline, with Humphreys Peak being Arizona's highest mountain at 12,637 feet. You will likely have views of this majestic peak from various points along the touring cycling routes.
What is the Coconino National Forest and how does it relate to cycling in Timberline-Fernwood?
Timberline-Fernwood provides direct access to the vast Coconino National Forest, an expansive area with diverse ecosystems and numerous recreational opportunities. Many touring cycling routes, such as those leading to Lockett Meadow, traverse this forest, offering scenic rides through its unique landscapes.
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