The best road cycling routes in the Absaroka Range

There are 13 road cycling routes available in the Absaroka Range on komoot, catering to various skill levels. This includes 1 easy, 5 moderate, and 7 difficult routes, offering diverse experiences across the region's rugged terrain.

The Absaroka Range offers a unique and challenging road cycling experience due to its volcanic geology. You can expect routes traversing steep, jagged peaks, dense forests, and vast plateaus, often sculpted by past glaciation. The region borders Yellowstone National Park, providing access to high mountain passes and scenic river valleys with breathtaking vistas.

The prime season for road cycling in the Absaroka Range is generally from late spring to early autumn, typically May through October. High mountain passes like the Beartooth Highway are often closed due to snow outside of these months, so checking local conditions and road closures is advisable before planning your trip.

Yes, the Absaroka Range is renowned for its challenging road cycling. Routes like Beartooth Pass from Red Lodge (61.5 miles with over 2,100m elevation gain) and Beartooth Pass from Cooke (66.8 miles with over 2,000m elevation gain) offer substantial climbs and panoramic views, making them popular choices for advanced cyclists.

While many routes in the Absaroka Range are challenging, there is 1 easy route and 5 moderate routes available. For a moderate option, consider the Jenny Lake Lodge – Jackson Lake Dam loop from Jackson Lake Lodge, which is 33.4 miles long with a more manageable elevation gain, offering scenic views suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

Many road cycling routes in the Absaroka Range offer access to stunning natural landmarks and viewpoints. You might encounter sights such as the Upper Yellowstone Falls, Lower Yellowstone Falls, and the iconic View of Lower Falls from Artist Point. Other notable viewpoints include Lookout Point and Inspiration Point View of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, offering breathtaking panoramas.

Yes, the Absaroka Range features several excellent loop trails for road cyclists. A popular option is the State Line Montana/Wyoming loop from Mount Maurice Trailhead, a 37.9-mile route through mountainous terrain and forests. Another is the Beaver Lake – Twin Lakes loop from Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces, covering 36.6 miles.

For those seeking long-distance rides, the Absaroka Range offers several extensive routes. The Inspiration Point Road – Canyon Village loop from Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces is one of the longest, spanning 74.7 miles with significant elevation gain. Another substantial option is the Inspiration Point Road – Canyon Village loop from Mammoth, which is 73.3 miles long.

The Absaroka Range is highly regarded by the komoot community for road cycling, with an average rating of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. Over 200 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the challenging climbs, panoramic vistas, and the unique volcanic landscapes that define the region.

Absolutely. The Absaroka Range is home to some of the most scenic road cycling in the West. The Beartooth Highway (Route 212), which includes Beartooth Pass, is a major highlight, featuring numerous switchbacks and reaching over 10,000 feet with breathtaking 360-degree views. The Wyoming Centennial Scenic Byway, including Togwotee Pass, also offers immersive views of the rugged mountains.

As part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the Absaroka Range is rich in diverse flora and fauna. While cycling, you might spot various wildlife, including elk, deer, and potentially bears or wolves in more remote areas. Always maintain a safe distance and be aware of your surroundings, especially in wilderness areas.

Yes, there are 5 moderate difficulty routes available. Besides the Jenny Lake Lodge loop, another good option is the Roadbike loop from Mammoth, which covers 37.1 miles with a moderate elevation gain, offering a balanced challenge and scenic beauty.