The best road cycling routes around Cedar

The Cedar area offers a remarkable range of road cycling experiences, from relatively flat loops to challenging mountain climbs. You can traverse through brilliant red rock formations, towering forests, deep canyons, and high alpine plateaus. Routes often include scenic byways like the Patchwork Parkway National Scenic Byway (SR-143) and the Cedar Breaks Scenic Byway (SR-148), providing diverse terrain and breathtaking views.

Yes, Cedar offers options for various fitness levels. For an easier, scenic ride, consider routes like the Coal Creek and East Bench Trail Loop within Cedar City, which is about 10.4 miles and offers views along Coal Creek and the paved East Bench Trail. While the provided komoot routes are generally moderate, the region has options for less experienced riders.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the region provides routes with significant elevation gain. The Cedar City to Cedar City 90-Mile Loop is a demanding option with substantial climbs and descents, passing through the Red Hills of the Escalante Desert. Another challenging aspect can be found on routes incorporating climbs to Cedar Breaks National Monument, rewarding riders with panoramic views.

Road cycling routes around Cedar offer access to stunning natural attractions. You can experience the colorful sandstone and limestone formations of Cedar Breaks National Monument, often compared to a miniature Bryce Canyon. Other routes showcase the red rock formations and scenic drives of Kolob Canyons, a section of Zion National Park, or the alpine landscapes of Dixie National Forest.

Yes, loop routes are a popular option in the Cedar area. For example, the Parowan Gap Scenic Cycling Route is an approximately 50-mile, relatively flat loop that takes riders past ancient Native American petroglyphs. Another option is the Enoch to Parowan Loop, a moderate 38.7-mile loop featuring desert views. The komoot community also enjoys routes like the Leelanau Peninsula Loop, which is a 47.0-mile loop.

The diverse terrain around Cedar means cycling is enjoyable across multiple seasons. Lower elevation routes are pleasant in spring and fall. For higher alpine routes, such as those reaching elevations above 10,000 feet or traversing Dixie National Forest, summer offers cooler temperatures and clear conditions, making it ideal for exploring these scenic byways.

Route durations vary significantly based on distance, elevation, and your cycling pace. For instance, a moderate 45.2-mile route like Hickory Meadows – West End Beach loop from Traverse City typically takes around 4 hours. Shorter loops within Cedar City might take an hour or two, while challenging 90-mile routes can be an all-day endeavor.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and dramatic landscapes, the variety of routes catering to different skill levels, and the breathtaking views encountered along scenic byways and towards national monuments like Cedar Breaks.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Cedar utilize paved roads and scenic byways. Within Cedar City, the East Bench Trail is a paved 5.5-mile path offering views of the surrounding mountains and canyons. Longer routes often follow well-maintained state highways and scenic byways, providing smooth surfaces for road bikes.

Cedar City serves as a convenient base with various amenities, including parking options. Many routes start directly from the city, where you can find public parking. For routes outside the city, specific trailheads or designated parking areas along scenic byways are usually available. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended starting points and parking facilities.

Absolutely. Cedar City's location makes it a gateway to several major national parks and monuments. While cycling directly within all national parks might have restrictions, routes often lead to or offer stunning views of areas like Cedar Breaks National Monument, Kolob Canyons (part of Zion National Park), and Dixie National Forest, allowing you to experience their grandeur from your bike.

Yes, some routes offer a blend of scenic beauty and historical interest. The Parowan Gap Scenic Cycling Route, for example, takes riders past ancient Native American petroglyphs, providing a unique cultural experience alongside the natural landscapes of Iron County.