The best traffic-free bike rides in Southwest

There are over 250 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in the Southwest region. These range from easy, family-friendly rides to more challenging ascents, offering diverse experiences for all skill levels.

The Southwest boasts abundant sunshine, making it ideal for year-round cycling in many areas. Winter months are particularly popular for road cycling in lower elevations, offering warm, dry weather. During summer, it's best to cycle in higher elevations or during early mornings/late evenings to avoid intense heat. Always remember to hydrate adequately and use sun protection.

Yes, the Southwest offers several easy, traffic-free routes suitable for families. Tucson, Arizona, for example, features 'The Loop,' a 131-mile paved urban trail system that connects parks and various parts of the city without vehicular traffic. Another great option is the 8-mile paved, one-way Cactus Forest Drive in Saguaro National Park East, offering immersive desert scenery.

The Southwest offers incredibly diverse terrain. You can find flat desert roads with expansive vistas, such as those around Tucson, or challenging mountain climbs like the epic ascent of Mount Lemmon. Routes can take you through saguaro-filled deserts, pine forests, and past unique geological formations, catering to a wide range of preferences and fitness levels.

Many routes in the Southwest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Lipno Dam – Ferry to Frymburk loop from Lipno nad Vltavou offers a scenic circular ride. You can also find other circular options like the J. K. Tyl Theatre Plzeň – Roundabout loop from Plzeň-Skvrňany or the Paved Rural Road Section loop from Přeštice.

The Southwest is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's stunning natural beauty, the variety of terrain from desert to mountains, and the extensive network of routes that allow for peaceful, traffic-free cycling experiences.

The Southwest is rich in natural and historical attractions. While cycling, you might encounter unique geological features, vast desert landscapes, or even historical sites. For example, you could explore the Klatovy Catacombs or the Old Uranium Mine Tunnel. The region is also home to iconic national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon, offering breathtaking backdrops.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Southwest offers routes with significant elevation gain. A prime example is the climb up Mount Lemmon in Tucson, which ascends from the saguaro-filled desert to pine forests at over 8,000 feet. Flagstaff also offers challenging routes like the climb up Snowbowl. These routes are popular for winter training among professional cyclists.

Parking availability varies by route. Many designated car-free cycling paths, especially those within urban areas or national parks, often have dedicated parking lots at trailheads or visitor centers. For routes like 'The Loop' in Tucson, numerous access points offer parking. It's always recommended to check specific route details on komoot for parking information before you go.

Public transport access depends on the specific location and route. In larger cities like Tucson, some sections of 'The Loop' are accessible via public transit. However, many of the more remote or scenic traffic-free routes in national parks or rural areas may require personal vehicle access. Always check local public transport options and route starting points for accessibility.

Beyond the well-known routes, the Southwest holds many lesser-known gems. The Lake Mary Road ride near Flagstaff, for instance, offers scenic views of pine forests and lakes with notably low traffic. Exploring areas like the Texas Hill Country, with routes like River Road in New Braunfels, can also reveal beautiful, quieter cycling experiences through river canyons.