The best cycling routes in Apache County

There are over 10 touring cycling routes available in Apache County, offering a range of experiences from easy to difficult. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, including high desert flatlands and the verdant Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

Apache County's touring cycling routes feature a dramatically diverse landscape. You'll encounter high desert flatlands, mountainous terrain, vibrant rock formations, majestic buttes, and towering cliffs. Routes can include both paved and unpaved segments, with significant elevation changes, especially in areas like the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

Yes, Apache County offers several challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists. For instance, the Little Brushy – Aniceto Knoll loop from Pinetop Country Club is a difficult 79.4 km route with over 1,045 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Little Brushy – Pierce Mountain loop from Pinetop Country Club, which covers 54.3 km with nearly 600 meters of climbing.

Apache County is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along your cycling routes, you might encounter geological marvels like those found in Petrified Forest National Park, renowned for its colorful petrified wood and the Painted Desert. Specific highlights include the Blue Mesa Trail, Kachina Point, and the Agate Bridge. You can also explore cultural sites such as Puerco Pueblo & petroglyphs.

While many routes in Apache County feature significant elevation changes, there are options suitable for families or those seeking a more moderate ride. The Los Burros Campground loop from Los Burros is a moderate 13.3 km route with less than 200 meters of elevation gain, offering a pleasant experience through forested areas.

Apache County boasts over 270 days of sunshine annually and low humidity, making it favorable for outdoor activities for much of the year. Summer temperatures average around 80°F. Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable cycling conditions with milder temperatures, while summer mornings can also be pleasant before the heat of the day.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Apache County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Little Brushy loop from Pinetop Country Club, a 37.3 km moderate ride, and the Reservoir Tank loop from Big Lake Knoll, a 13.7 km moderate route.

Yes, Apache County offers potential for multi-day touring. The Coronado Trail Scenic Byway, while challenging with its numerous curves and steep descents, provides primitive and developed campsites along its remote route through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, making it suitable for multi-day excursions. The Big Lake Recreation Area also offers camping facilities.

For those preferring less strenuous rides, the Brushy Mountain Tank loop from Pinetop Country Club is a moderate 23.7 km route with approximately 140 meters of elevation gain, offering a more gentle cycling experience through varied landscapes.

Northeastern Arizona, including Apache County, is celebrated for some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country. The remote nature and clear skies away from urban light pollution make it an ideal location to enjoy the night sky after a day of cycling. Consider planning your rides to include an overnight stay in areas with minimal light interference.

The Coronado Trail Scenic Byway is a notable route for touring cyclists seeking an extreme experience. It winds through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, known for its challenging terrain, hairpin turns, and steep descents, offering breathtaking views of remote, undeveloped land. Cyclists should be prepared for a demanding ride on this byway.