The best cycling routes in Iron County

Iron County offers a diverse range of landscapes for touring cyclists. You'll traverse high-desert plateaus, encounter vibrant red rock formations, and cycle through lush forests. Notable features include the dramatic geological formations of Cedar Breaks National Monument and the expansive Markagunt Plateau. The terrain varies from arid western deserts to verdant eastern plateaus, providing a rich visual experience.

Yes, Iron County offers routes suitable for various skill levels. While many routes are moderate, there are options for beginners. For instance, the region features paths that allow you to experience the scenery without overly challenging climbs. You can find a total of 9 touring cycling routes, with 2 categorized as easy, 5 as moderate, and 2 as difficult.

Iron County is rich in natural attractions. Cyclists can encounter the stunning amphitheater of Cedar Breaks National Monument, offering spectacular views. The Parowan Gap Petroglyphs loop from Red Hills takes you past ancient Jurassic rock formations and Native American rock art. Other highlights include Kanarra Creek Canyon & Waterfalls, Point Supreme, and Brian Head Peak, which offers panoramic vistas.

Yes, there are routes that families can enjoy. The Jones Iron Works Park to Coal Creek Trail is a moderate 22.0-mile path that follows the scenic Coal Creek Trail, providing a pleasant journey through the local area suitable for a family outing. Another option is the Coal Creek Trail – East Bench Trail loop from Cedar City, which is also moderate and offers a good experience for families.

The best time to go touring cycling in Iron County is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months. During warmer months, higher elevation areas like Cedar Breaks National Monument and the Markagunt Plateau offer cooler temperatures. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather for exploring the diverse landscapes, from red rock formations to forested mountains. Winter can bring snow, especially at higher elevations, making some routes inaccessible for touring bikes.

Yes, Iron County features several circular routes for touring cyclists. For example, the North Kolob loop from Kolob Reservoir is a challenging 24.9-mile route that offers a full loop experience. Another option is the Parowan Gap Petroglyphs loop from Red Hills, a moderate 13.2-mile circular route that includes historical landmarks.

The touring cycling routes in Iron County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from high-desert plateaus to forested mountains, and the stunning geological formations like those found along the Timber Creek Overlook Trailhead and Kolob View Point via Kolob Canyon Road.

Yes, you can find touring cycling routes that pass by or offer views of water features. The Kolob Reservoir Road is a 15.4-mile trail that leads through forested areas and directly past the Kolob Reservoir, providing scenic views of the water.

Iron County's touring cycling routes feature varied elevation changes, reflecting the region's diverse topography. You can expect routes with sustained ascents, such as those leading to higher elevations near 10,000 feet, offering dramatic views. For example, the North Kolob loop from Kolob Reservoir involves over 700 meters of elevation gain, while other routes like the Jones Iron Works Park to Coal Creek Trail have more moderate climbs.

Absolutely. Iron County is famous for its red rock formations. The region around Cedar City, including areas like the Parowan Gap Petroglyphs loop from Red Hills, features ancient Jurassic rock formations. Many routes traverse canyons carved through vibrant red and pink cliffs, offering stunning views of these iconic geological features.

There are 9 touring cycling routes available in Iron County. These routes cater to various difficulty levels, including 2 easy, 5 moderate, and 2 difficult options, allowing cyclists to choose paths that match their experience and fitness.