The best traffic-free bike rides in San Juan County

Komoot currently lists 6 moderate touring cycling routes in San Juan County that are designed to minimize traffic exposure. These routes offer a variety of experiences across both the high desert Four Corners region and the San Juan Islands.

While all listed routes are moderate, the San Juan Islands offer options like the Pear Point Loop around Friday Harbor, which is known for being family-friendly. In the Four Corners region, routes like the Natural Bridges National Monument Drive provide scenic, paved experiences suitable for a range of abilities, though some elevation gain is present.

San Juan County offers two distinct cycling experiences. In the Four Corners region, you'll encounter dramatic red rock formations, deep canyons, and high desert plateaus, with routes often providing views of the Abajo and La Sal Mountains. The San Juan Islands, conversely, feature lush coastal scenery, rolling hills, picturesque farmland, and evergreen forests, with stunning ocean vistas.

Yes, several routes are loops. For example, in the Four Corners area, you can enjoy the View of Owachomo Bridge loop from White Canyon or the John Ford's Point – Camel Butte Overlook loop from Oljato-Monument Valley. The San Juan Islands also feature classic loops like the San Juan Island Loop (43 miles) and the Friday Harbor to Roche Harbor loop (19 miles).

The best time depends on the region. For the high desert Four Corners area, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures, avoiding the summer heat and winter cold. For the San Juan Islands, late spring through early fall (May-September) provides the most favorable weather for cycling, with milder temperatures and less rain.

In the Four Corners region, routes often pass by iconic geological features. For instance, the Natural Bridges National Monument Drive offers views of natural bridges like Sipapu Bridge. In the San Juan Islands, routes can take you past Lime Kiln Point State Park (known for whale watching) and the San Juan Island National Historical Park.

Absolutely! The San Juan Islands are particularly rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot bald eagles, fox, deer, seals, and sea lions. Lime Kiln Point State Park is renowned as one of the best land-based whale-watching spots. In the Four Corners region, you might encounter desert wildlife, though it tends to be more elusive.

The routes vary in length. For example, the Natural Bridges National Monument Drive is about 15 km (9.4 miles), while the John Ford's Point – Camel Butte Overlook loop from Oljato-Monument Valley is approximately 33 km (20.7 miles). The San Juan Islands also offer a range, from shorter loops like Pear Point (6 miles) to the full San Juan Island Loop (43 miles).

Parking is generally available at trailheads and visitor centers for routes within national parks and monuments, such as Natural Bridges National Monument. For routes in the San Juan Islands, parking can often be found in towns like Friday Harbor or near specific attractions and parks. Always check local regulations before parking.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning and diverse natural beauty, from the dramatic red rock landscapes of the Four Corners to the serene coastal views of the San Juan Islands, and the opportunity to experience these unique environments with minimal traffic.

Yes, particularly in the Four Corners region. The Natural Bridges National Monument Drive and the View of Owachomo Bridge loop from White Canyon both provide exceptional views of the area's iconic natural bridges and desert landscapes.