The best cycling routes in Little Book Cliffs Wilderness Study Area

The Little Book Cliffs Wilderness Study Area itself is quite rugged, characterized by dramatic canyons and primitive four-wheel-drive roads that can be challenging for touring cyclists. However, opportunities for gravel biking exist on less rugged dirt and gravel roads surrounding the immediate Wilderness Study Area boundaries. Routes like the Fruit and Wine Byway Loop offer a more challenging, longer ride, while others are easier.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Coal Canyon Trail is an easy 5.5-mile route that offers views along the southern margin of the Wild Horse Range. Another great option is the Fruit and Wine Byway - East Orchard Loop, an easy 10.9-mile path winding through agricultural landscapes and orchards.

The best season for touring cycling in and around the Little Book Cliffs Wilderness Study Area is generally from May to September. During these months, the weather is typically more favorable, and conditions are better for exploring the dirt and gravel roads. Winter and wet conditions can make some primitive roads impassable.

Yes, the Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Area, which encompasses the Wilderness Study Area, is specifically designated to protect wild horses. Approximately 80-120 mustangs roam these lands, offering unique opportunities for observation. The Coal Canyon Trail, for example, offers views along the southern margin of the Wild Horse Range where you might spot them. The area is also home to mule deer, elk, mountain lion, black bear, wild turkey, and various raptors.

The region is known for its dramatic geology, including impressive canyons like Main Canyon, Coal Canyon, Cottonwood Canyon, and Spring Canyon. You can also discover unique geological formations such as natural bridges and hoodoos. The southern edge is dominated by the impressive, 2,000-foot-high face of the Book Cliffs, providing dramatic vistas. The Brown Cycles Bike Shop – Blue Heron Lake loop from Palisade will take you past a lake, adding to the scenic diversity.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. The Fruit and Wine Byway - East Orchard Loop is an easy circular path. For a longer, more varied experience, consider the Brown Cycles Bike Shop – Blue Heron Lake loop from Palisade, which covers 39.2 miles through diverse terrain. The Collbran loop is another challenging circular route.

Access points for routes surrounding the Little Book Cliffs Wilderness Study Area vary. For instance, Coal Canyon Road can be ridden for the first 3.5 miles from the I-70 Cameo Exit. For routes like the Fruit and Wine Byway, access points are typically found in nearby towns such as Palisade. Specific parking information is usually detailed on individual route pages on komoot.

While the immediate Wilderness Study Area is undeveloped, nearby towns like Palisade and De Beque offer amenities. These towns provide access to cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options, especially those catering to visitors exploring the surrounding agricultural and natural landscapes. It's advisable to plan your route to pass through or start from these towns for convenience.

This guide features 6 touring cycling routes, offering a range of experiences from easy to difficult. These routes allow you to explore the diverse landscapes surrounding the Little Book Cliffs Wilderness Study Area.

The interior of the Little Book Cliffs Wilderness Study Area is largely trackless or has primitive 4x4 roads, and is primarily designated for foot and horse travel. For touring cycling on the gravel and backcountry roads *outside* the immediate WSA boundaries, permits are generally not required. However, it's always good practice to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for any specific regulations or closures before your trip. More information about Wilderness Study Areas can be found on the BLM website.

Public transport options directly to the remote access points of cycling routes around the Little Book Cliffs Wilderness Study Area are limited. Most visitors rely on personal vehicles to reach trailheads and starting points. It's recommended to check local transport services in nearby towns like Grand Junction or Palisade for any specific regional connections, but direct access to the more rugged areas is typically by car.

Over 40 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore this region. They often praise the unique blend of dramatic desert landscapes, the chance to spot wild horses, and the varied terrain that offers both easy scenic rides through orchards and more challenging routes on backcountry gravel roads. The solitude and natural beauty are frequently highlighted as key attractions.