The best gravel rides in the Mollogon Rim

The Mogollon Rim offers 10 distinct gravel biking routes, catering to various skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars.

Gravel biking in the Mogollon Rim features diverse terrain, from extensive Ponderosa pine forests to high cliffs of limestone and sandstone. You'll encounter a mix of thick gravel and fast dirt on forest roads, with routes reaching elevations around 8,000 feet. The region's dramatic escarpment provides varied experiences, from challenging climbs to scenic forest paths.

Yes, there are routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Balanced Rock – Balanced Rock loop from Reata Pass is rated as easy, covering 9.3 miles (15 km) with moderate elevation changes, making it a good option for those new to gravel biking in the area.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Double Springs Campground – Old Railroad Track loop from Kachina Village offer significant elevation changes over 46.8 miles (75.4 km). Another difficult option is the Fort Tuthill County Park loop from Ponderosa Trails, which is 9.7 miles (15.6 km) long.

The Mogollon Rim is rich in natural beauty. You can expect panoramic views of Arizona's wilderness, extensive Ponderosa pine forests, and pristine mountain lakes such as Woods Canyon Lake and Willow Springs Lake. Specific viewpoints like Rim Lakes Vista and Military Sinkhole offer stunning vistas. While gravel biking, you might also encounter sections of the Arizona Trail, which passes through areas like Pine Canyon.

Many of the gravel biking routes in the Mogollon Rim are loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. Examples include the View of Red Mountain loop from Schlechts Butte and the Gravel loop from Northern Arizona University.

The extensive Ponderosa pine forests of the Mogollon Rim offer a cool escape from the desert heat, making summer months a popular time for gravel biking. However, spring and fall also provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Winter biking is possible but requires checking weather conditions due to potential snow and ice at higher elevations.

While many routes involve significant elevation changes, some sections of forest roads or shorter, easier loops can be suitable for families. The region's numerous lakes and campgrounds also provide excellent opportunities for combining a short ride with other family activities like picnicking or fishing.

Many gravel biking routes in the Mogollon Rim start from established trailheads or campgrounds, which typically offer parking facilities. For instance, routes may begin near locations like Fraesfield Mountain Trailhead or Double Springs Campground, where parking is generally available.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 40 gravel bikers. Reviewers often praise the dramatic geological formations, the extensive pine forests providing a cool escape, and the spectacular panoramic views from the Rim's edge.

Yes, the Mogollon Rim region is known for its dramatic topography, including canyons and potential seasonal waterfalls. You can find highlights like Boulder Pools, which is a waterfall, and various canyons such as Fossil Creek Canyon and Pine Canyon. The Salt River Canyon - Cibecue Creek Crossing is another notable canyon in the area.