The best cycling routes around Yukon

Yukon offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from easier paths suitable for a relaxed ride, such as the Bike loop from Reduction, to more challenging multi-day adventures. The terrain varies from rolling hills to mountainous areas, often traversing vast wilderness and extensive boreal forests.

Currently, there are around 8 touring cycling routes documented for Yukon on komoot. These routes have been explored by over 300 touring cyclists, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from more than 20 reviews.

Yes, Yukon has easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners. An example is the Red Waterfall loop from West Newton, which is 21.6 km long and typically takes about 1 hour 21 minutes to complete. These routes offer a gentler introduction to touring cycling in the region.

For those looking for a moderate challenge, routes like the Uniontown KOA Campground loop from West Newton offer a substantial ride through varied terrain. This route is 71.0 km long and typically takes around 4 hours 30 minutes. Another moderate option is the Red Waterfall – Zorianna Bay loop from West Newton, which is 41.4 km.

Experienced touring cyclists will find challenging routes in Yukon, such as the Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from West Newton. This difficult route spans 171.4 km and features significant elevation gain, typically requiring about 10 hours 56 minutes to complete. The region's mountainous areas provide ample opportunities for demanding rides.

Touring cyclists in Yukon can expect to encounter spectacular mountain landscapes, including the Saint Elias Mountain Range and the Kluane Mountains. The region is characterized by vast wilderness, extensive boreal forests, and significant river systems like the Yukon River. You might also see glaciers, pristine alpine environments, and numerous lakes such as Lake Laberge. Miles Canyon, with its emerald-green waters and volcanic rock walls, is another striking feature.

The touring cycling routes in Yukon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's stunning natural landscapes, the sense of wilderness, and the diverse terrain that offers something for every skill level. The opportunity for wildlife encounters also adds to the unique experience.

Yes, some routes feature scenic attractions. For instance, the Red Waterfall is a notable highlight that can be found along certain touring cycling paths. The region itself is rich with natural beauty, including the dramatic Miles Canyon and the vast Yukon River.

The cycling season in Yukon typically runs from late May/early June to late September. June and July are particularly ideal due to extended daylight hours, which allow for longer rides. During this period, the weather is generally more favorable for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.

Yes, you can find facilities along or near some routes. For example, the West Newton Visitor Center can be a useful stop. Additionally, there are campgrounds like GAP Trail Campground and Cedar Creek Hiker-Biker Campground that cater to cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Yukon is a vast wilderness, and wildlife encounters are a possibility. Cyclists should be prepared for the chance of seeing various animals. It's always advisable to be aware of your surroundings, carry bear spray if appropriate for the area, and know how to react in case of an encounter to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

Yes, for adventurous cyclists, Yukon offers multi-day touring options. Routes like the Golden Circle Route, a 700-km loop, provide spectacular mountain landscapes and minimal traffic. More remote and challenging options include the largely unpaved Dempster Highway or the Canol Road, which require thorough preparation for wilderness conditions.