The best traffic-free bike rides in San Juan County
4.6
(12)
7,999
riders
6
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in San Juan County traverse a landscape dominated by dramatic high desert terrain and ancient red rock formations. This region, part of the Four Corners area, features deep canyons, towering rock pillars, and expansive plateaus. Routes often provide views of distant mountain ranges, offering a unique backdrop for cycling. The geology, shaped by millennia of erosion, creates a rugged and distinctive environment for outdoor exploration.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in San Juan County
…Last updated: April 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
2,602
riders
15.2km
01:01
220m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2,574
riders
16.1km
01:05
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
2,563
riders
14.3km
00:58
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
20.4km
01:21
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
33.5km
02:52
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A dirt road that leads from the Kane Creek Parking Lot to the start of HyMasa.
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The narrow rock bridge stands out little from its surroundings in terms of shape and color, making it not immediately recognizable from the vantage point.
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Camel Butte is located 2.75 miles southeast of the Monument Valley Visitor Center on Navajo Nation land. Its name refers to its resemblance to a seated camel facing west.
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We experience the impressive Monument Valley on a 1.5-hour tour. We are accompanied by an experienced Navajo guide who leads us through the valley and introduces us to the diverse Native American culture. During several photo stops we have the opportunity to take a look at the monumental rock formations. The terrain of Monument Valley is ancient, resilient and breathtakingly beautiful. This distinctive landscape was created by the erosion of the sandstone deposits of the Rocky Mountains and geological uplift and was further shaped over many centuries by the relentless forces of wind and water. Contrary to what some may assume, Monument Valley is not a national park but a tribal park as it lies within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation. The tribal park designation is important to preserve its unique heritage and geological wonders.
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We experience the impressive Monument Valley on a 1.5-hour tour. We are accompanied by an experienced Navajo guide who leads us through the valley and introduces us to the diverse Native American culture. During several photo stops we have the opportunity to take a look at the monumental rock formations. The terrain of Monument Valley is ancient, resilient and breathtakingly beautiful. This distinctive landscape was created by the erosion of the sandstone deposits of the Rocky Mountains and geological uplift and was further shaped over many centuries by the relentless forces of wind and water. Contrary to what some may assume, Monument Valley is not a national park but a tribal park as it lies within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation. The tribal park designation is important to preserve its unique heritage and geological wonders.
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We experience the breathtaking Monument Valley on a 1.5-hour tour. We are accompanied by an experienced Navajo guide who leads us through the valley and introduces us to the diverse Native American culture. During several photo stops, we have the opportunity to admire the monumental rock formations. The terrain of Monument Valley is ancient, resilient, and breathtakingly beautiful. This distinctive landscape was formed by the erosion of the Rocky Mountains' sandstone deposits and geological uplift, and has been further shaped over many centuries by the relentless forces of wind and water. Contrary to what some might assume, Monument Valley is not a national park, but a tribal park, as it lies within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation. The tribal park designation is important to preserve its unique heritage and geological wonders.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available 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.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes in San Juan County?
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.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on no-traffic touring cycling routes in San Juan County?
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.
Are there any loop touring cycling routes that avoid traffic in San Juan County?
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).
What is the best time of year for no-traffic bike touring in San Juan County?
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.
What attractions can I see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
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.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on these routes?
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.
What are the typical lengths of the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
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).
Where can I find parking for no-traffic touring cycling routes in San Juan County?
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.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in San Juan County?
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.
Are there any routes that offer views of significant geological formations?
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.
Most popular routes in San Juan County
Most popular attractions in San Juan County
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