The best road cycling routes in Grand Canyon National Park
5.0
(5)
237
riders
10
rides
Road cycling in Grand Canyon National Park features routes traversing the South Rim and North Rim, offering diverse terrain. The landscape is characterized by vast canyon vistas, varying elevations, and high desert environments. Roads often follow the rim, providing access to numerous viewpoints, or connect key visitor areas. The region presents a mix of moderate and challenging climbs suitable for road cyclists.
Best road cycling routes in Grand Canyon National Park
- The most popular road cycling route is Grand Canyon Rim Trail, a 19.4 miles (31.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 50 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers views along the South Rim.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Grand Canyon Village to Desert View Point, a moderate 47.1 miles (75.8 km) path. This route follows Desert View Drive, providing access to multiple canyon viewpoints.
- Local road cyclists also love the Bright Angel Point to Jacob Lake via Grand Canyon Highway, an 87.1 miles (140.2 km) trail leading through varying elevations, often completed in about 6 hours 3 minutes.
- Road cycling in Grand Canyon National Park is defined by immense canyon views, high desert landscapes, and varying elevations. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate rim routes to difficult climbs.
- The routes in Grand Canyon National Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. More than 160 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Grand Canyon National Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
5.0
(2)
96
riders
31.3km
01:51
380m
380m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
21
riders
75.8km
03:30
720m
720m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(1)
12
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
22.7km
01:02
190m
190m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
2
riders
140km
06:04
1,230m
1,230m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The Grand Canyon Greenway Trail connects the village of Tusayan with Grand Canyon Village. This easy trail features a steady incline along a paved path, surrounded by trees. It's a great option for a quiet ride compared to the busier routes around the canyon.
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Hermit's Rest is the endpoint of a stunning and epic ride in the Grand Canyon. Built in 1914, the structure is named after Louis Boucher, a Canadian-born prospector who staked claims near the site around 1891. With help, Boucher carved the trail into the canyon and lived alone at nearby Dripping Springs for many years. The ride is smooth and scenic, offering breathtaking canyon views. No cars are allowed on Hermit Road, making the experience even better, though shuttle buses still run. There's a small snack bar at Hermit’s Rest for a quick break. This is a must-do for any cycling enthusiast!
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Mohave Point offers incredible views over the Grand Canyon, especially at sunset. You’ll also get a perfect view of the Tonto Trail winding deep into the canyon. The trail to the very tip of the point isn’t paved, so you can stop your bike and take a short hike to check it out.
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At Pima Point, you can both see and hear the rumbling Colorado River with the Hermit Rapids in sight.
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As one of the highest points along the South Rim, Desert View Point offers amazing views into the Grand Canyon. Most viewpoints keep the mighty Colorado River hidden, but from this view point, you can see the river in its full glory winding through Marble Canyon. If you are lucky and look closely, you might be able to spot hikers on the Tanner Trail way below you. Desert View is also famous for the watchtower, a stone tower built in 1932 and designed by Mary Colter. If you climb up the circular staircase to its top, you are at the highest point of the South Rim at 7,522 feet. The Desert View Visitors Center and a bookshop are close by.
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Tusayan is an Arizona Trail Gateway Community. It is a small town close to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. You will find some motels, restaurants and a grocery store. Due to the proximity to the touristy South Rim, everything is very pricy, even McDonalds. The grocery store at the Grand Canyon Village is cheaper with a larger variety. Free WiFi is available in the lobby of the Holiday Inn. The Mexican restaurant has a nice and affordable breakfast buffet. The Tusayan Post Office in the General Store will NOT accept General Delivery packages, so send them to the Post Office at Grand Canyon Village.
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Tusayan is an Arizona Trail Gateway Community. It is a small town close to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. You will find some motels, restaurants and a grocery store. Due to the proximity to the touristy South Rim, everything is very pricy, even McDonalds. The grocery store at the Grand Canyon Village is cheaper with a larger variety. Free WiFi is available in the lobby of the Holiday Inn. The Mexican restaurant has a nice and affordable breakfast buffet. The Tusayan Post Office in the General Store will NOT accept General Delivery packages, so send them to the Post Office at Grand Canyon Village.
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Hermit's Rest is the endpoint of a stunning and epic ride in the Grand Canyon. Built in 1914, the structure is named after Louis Boucher, a Canadian-born prospector who staked claims near the site around 1891. With help, Boucher carved the trail into the canyon and lived alone at nearby Dripping Springs for many years. The ride is smooth and scenic, offering breathtaking canyon views. No cars are allowed on Hermit Road, making the experience even better, though shuttle buses still run. There's a small snack bar at Hermit’s Rest for a quick break. This is a must-do for any cycling enthusiast!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in Grand Canyon National Park?
Road cycling in Grand Canyon National Park features routes traversing both the South Rim and North Rim. You can expect diverse terrain characterized by vast canyon vistas, varying elevations, and high desert environments. Routes often follow the rim, providing access to numerous viewpoints, or connect key visitor areas, offering a mix of moderate and challenging climbs.
How many road cycling routes are available in Grand Canyon National Park?
There are 8 road cycling routes documented in Grand Canyon National Park on komoot. These include 1 easy route, 5 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Grand Canyon National Park?
Yes, there are routes suitable for families. For instance, the Grand Canyon Village Greenway to Tusayan is a moderate 22.7 km route with a relatively gentle elevation gain, making it a good option for a family outing.
What are some notable viewpoints or landmarks accessible by road bike in Grand Canyon National Park?
Many routes offer access to stunning viewpoints. For example, the Grand Canyon Village to Desert View Point route follows Desert View Drive, providing access to multiple canyon viewpoints. You can also find highlights like Ooh Aah Point and Cedar Ridge along various trails.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Bright Angel Point to Jacob Lake via Grand Canyon Highway is a difficult 140.2 km route with over 1200 meters of elevation gain, offering a demanding ride through varying elevations.
What do other road cyclists say about their experience in Grand Canyon National Park?
The road cycling routes in Grand Canyon National Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the immense canyon views and the variety of terrain available.
Can I find any waterfalls along the road cycling routes in Grand Canyon National Park?
While road cycling routes primarily follow the rim and main roads, the Grand Canyon region is home to several impressive waterfalls. Some notable ones include Ribbon Falls View and Deer Creek Falls, though these may require venturing off the main cycling paths.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the park?
Many routes in the park are designed to be out-and-back or connect different points along the rim. While a fully circular route encompassing the entire park might be extensive, you can create loops by combining segments or utilizing shuttle services where available. For example, the Grand Canyon Village, Yaki Point, and Grandview Point via Desert View Drive offers a loop-like experience to multiple viewpoints.
What is the best time of year for road biking in Grand Canyon National Park?
The Grand Canyon experiences distinct seasons. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and potential snow or ice in winter, especially at higher elevations on the North Rim. Always check current weather conditions before your ride.
Are there any easy road cycling routes for beginners?
Yes, there is at least one easy road cycling route available. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances, providing a comfortable experience for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride.
What are the typical elevation changes on road cycling routes in Grand Canyon National Park?
Elevation changes vary significantly depending on the route. Moderate routes like the Grand Canyon Rim Trail can have around 380 meters of ascent, while more difficult routes, such as the Bright Angel Point to Jacob Lake via Grand Canyon Highway, can involve over 1200 meters of climbing.
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