The best traffic-free bike rides in Walnut Canyon National Monument
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Gravel biking in Walnut Canyon National Monument offers routes through a landscape characterized by a deep canyon, revealing millions of years of geological history with limestone and sandstone layers. The surrounding area features diverse life zones, where desert cacti grow alongside mountain firs, creating a varied environment for cycling. While the immediate monument trails are for hiking, the broader region provides extensive no traffic gravel bike trails, including systems like Campbell Mesa, offering views of Elden Mountain, mesas, and the…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
2
riders
17.8km
01:22
160m
150m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
13.2km
01:09
100m
100m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
riders
51.0km
03:42
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Walnut Canyon National Monument
Tips from the Community
The area that Flagstaff sits on has been a crossroads and gathering point for centuries. Many Native people have, and continue, to call the area home. Evidence of their history and ties to the area can be found at the nearby Walnut Canyon and Wupatki National Monuments. Also, Flagstaff sits along the world-famous Route 66, giving it a rich roadside attraction element that only towns along Route 66 can have. Those biking along Route 66 or the Arizona Trail will cross paths here, and perhaps the road and dirt riders will share stories of their different journeys over a beer at one of the excellent breweries in town. Flagstaff is a full service town with everything and outdoor adventurer could need, including bike shops, cafes and restaurants, grocery stores, and many great lodging options. If your legs need a rest for a day or two make Flagstaff your home for a while, you won't regret it.
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The most northern section of the Karen Cooper Trail passes through Cheshire Park, which backs up to a fair bit of Open Space. This is a popular spot for people walking their dogs or people looking for some quiet green space.
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Flagstaff is a picturesque mountain town and due to its high elevation, it's a runner's paradise. Whether you’re a local or from out of town, you can easily find company for a run. Athletes from all around the world, including NAZ Elite runners, NCAA champions and World Champions—who all come to train here to prepare for their championship seasons. As the saying goes about training in the high altitudes, “there's gold in the hills!”
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Walnut Meadow Trail is a fun and easy trail for all levels of riding. Combine it with the Campbell Mesa Trail to make it longer.
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All the trails surrounding this area are part of the Campbell Mesa Trail System. These trails offer views of Elden Mountain and its ridge towering over Flagstaff along with the mesas, meadows, and canyons of Walnut Canyon National Monument. This is a really popular hiking, biking, and running spot, but there are so many trails that the paths never feel too crowded.
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Old Duck Pond is a peaceful pond found along the Flagstaff Urban Trail System, with a wide diversity of resident birds and ducks. The paved path runs along Buffalo Park, and is a smooth, flat trail with views of the meadows, Elden Mountain, and Mount Humphreys in the background.
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Buffalo Park is a really popular park in Flagstaff. The main loop in the park is a couple miles, pretty flat, and smooth enough for wheelchairs and strollers. There are views of both Elden Mountain and Mount Humphreys, and you can access a bunch of other hiking and biking trails (including the Arizona Trail) from the trails in the park.
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Flagstaff has a wonderful bike trail on Route 66 that runs many kilometers from the eastern edge of the town right into the city center to the train station. Since there is a lot of traffic in Flagstaff, this trail is definitely recommended. The city itself is worth a stop and has a lot to offer. An ideal stop for a day of rest. It has good bike shops, restaurants, even a good brewery and a number of leisure activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in the Walnut Canyon National Monument area?
Our guide features 3 curated no-traffic gravel bike routes in the broader Walnut Canyon National Monument area. These routes offer a mix of easy and challenging terrain, allowing you to explore the scenic landscapes without vehicle interference.
Are bikes allowed directly within Walnut Canyon National Monument?
While the specific trails within Walnut Canyon National Monument itself, such as the Island Trail and Rim Trail, are primarily for hiking, the surrounding area offers excellent gravel biking opportunities. The routes in this guide are located near the monument, providing access to similar landscapes and views.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on these gravel bike trails?
The trails in this area traverse diverse landscapes, from high desert to pine forests, often revealing stunning views of the canyon and geological formations. You'll encounter areas with Kaibab limestone and Coconino Sandstone, similar to those found in the Grand Canyon, along with a rich variety of plant life and potential wildlife sightings like mule deer and coyotes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly gravel bike trails in the Walnut Canyon area?
Yes, there is an easy route suitable for most riders. The Gravel loop from Peaceful Valley Memorial Park is a great option, covering 13.2 km with a manageable elevation gain of just over 100 meters, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.
What are some of the more challenging gravel bike routes available?
For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, routes like the Historical Route 66 – Buffalo Park loop from Flagstaff Mall (72.4 km with 718 m elevation gain) and the Buffalo Park – Flagstaff loop from Northland Preparatory Academy (51 km with 499 m elevation gain) offer more demanding terrain and longer distances.
What is the best time of year for gravel cycling in the Walnut Canyon area?
The Walnut Canyon area experiences distinct seasons. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for gravel biking. Summers can be hot, especially in exposed areas, so early mornings are recommended. Winters can bring snow, particularly at higher elevations, which might limit access to some trails.
Are there any loop gravel bike routes in this guide?
Yes, all three routes featured in this guide are loop trails. This allows for convenient starting and ending points, such as the Gravel loop from Peaceful Valley Memorial Park, the Historical Route 66 – Buffalo Park loop from Flagstaff Mall, and the Buffalo Park – Flagstaff loop from Northland Preparatory Academy.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on these trails?
The Walnut Canyon area is a biological hotspot. While cycling, you might spot various wildlife, including coyotes, mule deer, elk, and javelina. Birdwatchers can look out for canyon wrens and turkey vultures. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the Walnut Canyon area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning canyon views, the sense of solitude on the no-traffic routes, and the diverse terrain that keeps rides interesting.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest near the gravel trails?
While the gravel trails themselves focus on natural landscapes, the nearby Walnut Canyon National Monument is renowned for its well-preserved cliff dwellings inhabited by the Sinagua people between A.D. 1100 and 1250. You can learn more about these ancient sites by visiting the monument directly. For planning your visit to the monument, you can check nps.gov.
Where can I find parking for these gravel bike routes?
The routes in this guide typically start from locations with available parking. For instance, the Gravel loop from Peaceful Valley Memorial Park starts near a memorial park, and the Historical Route 66 – Buffalo Park loop from Flagstaff Mall begins from a mall, both offering parking options. Always check the specific route details for precise parking information.
Most popular routes in Walnut Canyon National Monument
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