The best traffic-free bike rides in Coconino National Forest

Komoot features 6 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in Coconino National Forest. These routes are carefully selected to offer a serene cycling experience away from vehicular traffic, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

Coconino National Forest offers a diverse range of terrain, from high desert scrubland to dense ponderosa pine forests. You can expect varied elevation changes, with some routes featuring significant climbs and others being relatively flat. For example, the Dry Creek Road to Long Canyon Road & Aerie Road route includes over 420 meters of elevation gain, while other routes are flatter.

Yes, there are 3 easy no-traffic road cycling routes available. A great option for beginners or families is the Boynton Canyon Trailhead – Fay Canyon Trailhead loop, which covers approximately 18 km with moderate elevation, making it accessible for various fitness levels.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there is 1 difficult no-traffic road cycling route. The Sunset Crater to Nalakihu Pueblo route is a demanding ride spanning over 91 km with more than 1100 meters of elevation gain, offering a significant test of endurance and providing stunning views.

Many routes offer access to the stunning natural features of Coconino National Forest. In the Red Rock District, you might encounter iconic formations like Courthouse Rock or the famous Devil's Bridge. The Flagstaff District features volcanic landscapes and views of the San Francisco Peaks. Some routes also pass by beautiful lakes such as Bismarck Lake.

Yes, Coconino National Forest is renowned for its scenic beauty. The Red Rock District, in particular, offers breathtaking vistas of red rock buttes and canyons. While cycling, you'll find numerous spots to pause and enjoy panoramic views, especially around areas like Oak Creek Canyon or from higher elevations in the Flagstaff District, such as near Lockett Meadow.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Coconino National Forest, with an average score of 4.86 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet roads, the dramatic changes in scenery from pine forests to red rock landscapes, and the rewarding climbs that offer spectacular views.

Yes, several no-traffic road cycling routes in Coconino National Forest are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Fay Canyon Trailhead – OK Tank loop and the Speeds Tank loop from Village of Oak Creek.

The best time for road cycling in Coconino National Forest generally depends on the elevation. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures across most areas. Summer can be warm, especially at lower elevations like Sedona, but higher areas around Flagstaff provide cooler conditions. Winter cycling is possible, but higher elevation routes may be impacted by snow and ice, particularly in the Flagstaff District.

Parking is generally available near the trailheads and starting points of many routes within Coconino National Forest. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages on komoot. It's always advisable to check the route description for the most accurate parking information before your ride.

While the routes themselves are designed to be traffic-free and often pass through natural areas, towns like Flagstaff and Sedona, which border the forest, offer a wide range of amenities. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and various accommodation options in these towns, making them convenient bases for your cycling adventures. It's recommended to plan your route to pass through or near these towns if you require specific services.