The best road cycling routes in Prescott National Forest

Prescott National Forest offers over 30 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging rides throughout the diverse landscape.

Thanks to its mild climate and varied elevations, Prescott National Forest is suitable for road cycling year-round. Lower elevation routes are ideal in cooler months, while higher elevation areas offer a refreshing escape during warmer seasons.

Yes, there are several beginner-friendly road cycling routes. The forest features 4 easy routes, providing gentler terrain and less demanding climbs, perfect for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.

The terrain is highly diverse, ranging from Sonoran Desert flora at lower elevations to chaparral, piñon-juniper, and Ponderosa pine forests at higher altitudes. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, with routes featuring challenging climbs and scenic descents through various mountain ranges. Some routes may also include a mix of paved and gravel sections.

Yes, many routes in the forest are designed as loops. For example, the Prescott to Skull Valley via Kirkland loop is a popular option, offering a challenging ride through varied landscapes. Another is the Downtown Prescott – Shanna's sugar shack loop from Prescott, which is a moderate route.

Experienced riders will find plenty of challenging options. Routes like the Prescott to Skull Valley via Kirkland loop, with over 4,200 feet of elevation gain, or the Camp Verde to Cottonwood loop, offer substantial climbs and long distances. The forest's mountain ranges, including the Bradshaw and Sierra Prieta, provide significant altitude changes for advanced cyclists.

Many routes offer breathtaking views. You can enjoy panoramic vistas from areas around Thumb Butte, a distinctive volcanic formation, or from various points in the Bradshaw Mountains. The diverse ecosystems ensure constantly changing scenic backdrops, from desert to dense pine forests. Consider visiting the Thumb Butte viewpoint for stunning views.

Yes, some routes in Prescott National Forest offer a mixed-surface experience. For instance, the Beaver Creek Road via Interstate 17 loop — gravel is a difficult route that incorporates both paved and gravel sections, appealing to riders looking for diverse conditions.

The road cycling routes in Prescott National Forest are generally well-regarded by the komoot community. Riders often praise the diverse ecosystems, challenging climbs, and the opportunity to experience a remarkable shift in scenery from desert to pine forests. The area has an average rating of 3.0 stars from community reviews.

While cycling, you can encounter several natural attractions. The forest is home to four lakes—Lynx, Granite Basin, Mingus, and Horsethief—which provide picturesque settings. Iconic landmarks like Thumb Butte and Granite Mountain are visible from many routes. You can also visit Upper Goldwater Lake or Granite Basin Lake.

While specific crowd levels vary, routes like Shanna's sugar shack – Downtown Prescott loop from Wildwood Estates or the Hassayampa Village Lane, described as a quiet stretch with 'flowy rollers,' might offer a more serene experience away from heavier traffic, allowing for a peaceful ride through scenic views.