The best cycling routes around St. George

There are over 25 touring cycling routes around St. George, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes traverse the region's stunning red rock landscapes, diverse natural features, and varied terrain.

St. George is renowned for its 'Color Country' landscapes. Cyclists will encounter breathtaking vistas of towering red and white Navajo sandstone cliffs, unique desert terrain, and lush canyons. The area also features geological diversity, including petrified dunes, lava tubes, and ancient volcanic cones, particularly visible in areas like Snow Canyon State Park and the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve.

Yes, St. George offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Virgin River Trail – Virgin River Trail loop from St. George is an easy 12.3-mile path leading through riverine landscapes and red rock cliffs. Another option is the Virgin River Trail – Views of Virgin River loop from Washington, an easy 12.9-mile route.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers more difficult routes. The Lava Boulders – Snow Canyon Road loop from St. George is a difficult 80.2-mile route with significant elevation changes, providing a demanding ride through varied terrain.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in St. George are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular options include the St. George Two Rivers Loop, a moderate 21.4-mile route, and the Airport loop, a moderate 19.0-mile path offering views of the desert landscape.

St. George enjoys an average of 300 days of sunshine annually and a warm desert climate, making it suitable for year-round outdoor recreation. However, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for touring cycling, as summer months can be very hot. Winter cycling is also possible, though cooler.

The routes often pass by significant natural features and landmarks. You can explore the Petrified Dunes within Snow Canyon State Park, ride along the scenic Snow Canyon Scenic Road, or discover the ancient Santa Clara River Petroglyphs. The Hidden Pinyon Overlook also offers stunning views.

Absolutely. The Virgin River Trail system is particularly well-suited for families, offering paved, relatively flat paths. Routes like the Virgin River Trail – Virgin River Trail loop from St. George provide a safe and scenic environment for riders of all ages, winding along the river with views of red rock cliffs.

The touring cycling routes in St. George are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the stunning red rock scenery, the well-maintained trails, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels, from leisurely river paths to challenging mountain climbs.

St. George is considered a 'cycling hub' with a trail system that connects to lodging and amenities, making access convenient. Many routes, especially those within state parks or along the Virgin River, have designated parking areas at their trailheads. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages or local park websites.

Yes, the Virgin River is a prominent feature in many touring cycling routes. The St. George Two Rivers Loop follows both the Virgin and Santa Clara rivers, offering picturesque views. Additionally, the Virgin River Trail – Virgin River Trail loop from St. George is specifically designed to showcase the riverine landscapes and red rock cliffs along its banks.