The best cycling routes in the Pelly Mountains

There are 8 touring cycling routes available in the Pelly Mountains on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 3 easy, 4 moderate, and 1 difficult option.

Yes, there are several routes suitable for families. For an easier ride, consider the Yukon River loop from Riverdale, which is 7.7 km long and has minimal elevation gain. This allows for a pleasant experience for riders of varying abilities.

The best time for touring cycling in the Pelly Mountains is generally during the summer months. The region's higher elevations can retain snow into the summer, and the weather is most favorable for exploring the remote gravel roads and enjoying the natural landscape.

The Pelly Mountains are rich in wildlife. Cyclists often have opportunities to spot inland grizzly bears, Alaska-Yukon moose, caribou, thinhorn sheep, wolverines, and black bears. Sightings of bear, wolf, caribou, or moose are common, especially along the Pelly River.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the Pelly Mountains are loops. For example, the Whitehorse Dam – Miles Canyon Suspension Bridge loop from Yukon Arts Centre offers a 26.6 km circular path through river valleys and forested areas.

The Pelly Mountains offer diverse and striking topography. You can expect to traverse vast mountain landscapes, endless valleys, and pass alongside numerous rivers. Notable landmarks and points of interest include Grey Mountain Summit Trail, Grey Mountain Ridge, and Grey Mountain Cave. The region also features crystal lakes and dramatic mountain ranges like the Saint Cyr Range with views of Needle Rock and Granite Canyon.

Touring cycling in the Pelly Mountains can range from easy to difficult. The region is known for its rugged and remote wilderness, often involving remote gravel roads and significant elevation changes. For instance, the Rotary Centennial Bridge – Whitehorse Dam loop from Whitehorse is considered difficult due to its length and substantial elevation gain, while routes like the Shipyards Park – Yukon River loop from Whitehorse are moderate.

The Pelly Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the sense of solitude, the vast mountain landscapes, and the immersive natural experience offered by the remote gravel roads and diverse terrain.

The North and South Canol Roads are prominent routes for touring cyclists seeking long-distance adventures. These remote gravel roads offer hundreds of miles of riding through forests, alongside small lakes and rivers, providing quiet and solitude. Multi-day trips are common on these routes, sometimes involving a Pelly River cable ferry crossing.

The terrain in the Pelly Mountains is diverse. You'll encounter boreal forests at lower elevations, dominated by spruce, pine, and aspen. Above the 4,500-foot timberline, the landscape transitions to alpine tundra. Routes often feature remote gravel roads, rolling hills, and areas affected by old forest fires, leading to high alpine vistas.

Yes, there are easy options for beginners. The Yukon River loop from Riverdale is a good choice, being only 7.7 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for those new to touring cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.

Given the remote and rugged nature of the Pelly Mountains, it's crucial to pack for self-sufficiency. Essential items include navigation tools, repair kits, sufficient food and water, appropriate clothing layers for varying weather conditions (including potential snow at higher elevations), and bear spray due to abundant wildlife. Be prepared for challenging conditions and limited services.