The best cycling routes around Apple Valley

There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Apple Valley, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find 33 easy routes and 20 moderate routes to explore the High Desert landscape.

The routes in Apple Valley are primarily situated in the High Desert region, characterized by arid, rugged terrain and wide-open desert vistas. The elevation typically ranges between 2,000 and 4,000 feet, featuring basin and range topography with parallel mountain ranges and valleys. You'll encounter both paved paths and more challenging desert roads.

Yes, Apple Valley offers several easy touring cycling routes. An example is the Skills Park loop from Sherwood, which is a shorter, accessible ride. Another easy option is the Cobblestone Lake – East Lake loop from Jaycee Park, offering pleasant views over a distance of about 14.4 km.

While cycling in Apple Valley, you can experience the unique beauty of the Mojave Desert. The intermittent Mojave River flows through the area, a distinctive feature in the desert landscape. For those willing to venture slightly further, destinations like Deep Creek Hot Springs offer scenic hiking trails, and the Mojave National Preserve, with its ancient lava tube, is within a 1.5-hour drive.

Yes, there are several circular routes available. For instance, the Cobblestone Lake and East Lake loop is an easy, circular route that takes about 55 minutes to complete. Another popular option is the Burnsville and Apple Valley loop, a moderate 40.3 km trail.

The touring cycling routes in Apple Valley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, from wide-open desert vistas to local lakes, and the variety of routes suitable for different ability levels.

For those seeking a more extensive ride, the Minnesota River and Minnesota Zoo from Apple Valley route is a moderate 51.4 km path featuring varied terrain. The broader Mojave Desert also offers miles of paved and dirt roads for longer tours, though these require self-sufficiency due to scarce amenities.

Given its High Desert location, the best time for touring cycling in Apple Valley is typically during the cooler months, from late fall through spring. Summers can be very hot, making early mornings or late afternoons more suitable if cycling during that season. Always check weather forecasts and carry ample water.

Yes, many of the easy routes are suitable for families. The local bike paths, such as the Mojave Riverwalk in nearby Victorville, offer accessible and relatively flat terrain, perfect for a family outing. Shorter loops like the Cobblestone Lake and East Lake loop are also good choices for families.

Many routes in and around Apple Valley, especially those connected to parks or trailheads, offer designated parking areas. For example, the Mojave Riverwalk in Victorville provides access points with parking. When planning your ride, check the specific route details on komoot for information on starting points and available parking.

While direct public transport access to all trailheads might be limited, the Victor Valley Transit Authority serves Apple Valley and surrounding areas. You may be able to reach certain starting points or connect to local bike paths via bus routes. It's advisable to check the local transit schedules and bike-on-bus policies when planning your trip.

Given the desert environment, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, especially for longer rides. Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), appropriate clothing layers, a repair kit for your bike, and navigation tools are also highly recommended. Cell service can be scarce in some remote desert areas, so consider offline maps.