The best road cycling routes around Zion

The Zion area offers a variety of road cycling routes, ranging from easy, relatively flat scenic drives to more challenging climbs. You'll find routes that traverse massive sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems, with options suitable for various ability levels. There are 6 road cycling routes documented in this guide, with 2 easy and 4 moderate options.

Yes, Zion offers several easy road cycling options. The Lake Andrea loop from St. Catherine's Hospital is an easy 12.5-mile (20.2 km) route with minimal elevation gain, taking about 52 minutes to complete. Another accessible option is the Simmons Island Beach loop from Chiwaukee Prairie State Natural Area, an 18.6-mile (30.0 km) trail through coastal landscapes.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Simmons Island Beach – Petrifying Spring County Park loop from Chiwaukee Prairie State Natural Area is a moderate 36.2-mile (58.3 km) route. Another moderate option is the Simmons Island Beach loop from Winthrop Harbor, which covers 30.2 miles (48.5 km) with gentle rolling hills.

Road cycling around Zion offers stunning views of massive sandstone cliffs, deep canyons carved by the Virgin River, and a transition from arid desert to green valley plateaus and pine forests at higher elevations. The region is known for its unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems.

Yes, several points of interest are accessible near the road cycling routes. You can explore the Illinois Beach State Park, visit the tranquil Pond in Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve, or see the Stone Bridge Over the River, Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve. The Kenosha County Bike Trail — Pleasant Prairie also offers dedicated cycling paths.

Zion National Park offers varied conditions throughout the year. During peak season (typically March through October), the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles, making it a cyclist's paradise. However, for routes outside the main canyon, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling. Summer can be very hot, and winter may bring colder temperatures or snow at higher elevations.

Yes, the nearby town of Springdale offers e-bike rentals. This can be a convenient way to navigate the park and its scenic routes, especially if you prefer an assisted ride or want to cover more ground with less effort.

Within Zion National Park, cyclists are generally permitted on paved roads and the Pa'rus Trail. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is often closed to private vehicles during peak season, allowing cyclists and shuttle buses. However, bikes are not allowed through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. It's always advisable to check the official National Park Service website for the most current regulations and any specific restrictions: nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/bicycling.htm.

Yes, several routes in the area feature lakes and water. The Lake Andrea loop from St. Catherine's Hospital circles Lake Andrea. Additionally, the various Simmons Island Beach loops, such as the Lake Andrea – Simmons Island Beach loop from Winthrop Harbor, offer views of the lake and coastal areas.

The road cycling routes around Zion are popular among the komoot community, with over 40 road cyclists having explored the varied terrain. Riders often praise the stunning natural beauty, the well-maintained roads, and the diverse options available for different skill levels, from gentle scenic rides to challenging climbs.

Yes, the Lake Andrea – Simmons Island Beach loop from Winthrop Harbor is a moderate 30.9-mile (49.7 km) route that offers a combination of lake views and coastal landscapes, providing a diverse and scenic cycling experience.