The best road cycling routes around Mullan

Komoot features over 15 road cycling routes around Mullan, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes range from easy, paved paths to more challenging mountain roads, catering to different skill levels.

The Mullan area is renowned for its rail-trails, which provide excellent road cycling opportunities. The most prominent is the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, offering a long, paved, and relatively flat or gradual downhill ride. While often ridden on mountain bikes, the Route of the Hiawatha is also suitable for gravel bikes and offers a unique downhill experience with tunnels and trestles.

Yes, the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is an excellent choice for families. Its paved surface and gentle gradients, especially the section from Mullan to Wallace, make it accessible and enjoyable for riders of all ages and abilities.

The best time for road cycling in Mullan is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October), when the weather is mild and trails are clear of snow. Summer offers warm temperatures, while spring and fall provide cooler rides and beautiful scenery.

While the famous rail-trails offer gentler gradients, the surrounding Bitterroot Mountains provide opportunities for more challenging road cycling. Routes venturing into the National Forest will feature more significant elevation gains and descents, appealing to cyclists looking for a workout.

A truly unique experience is cycling the Route of the Hiawatha, known for its 10 dark tunnels and 7 sky-high trestles, including the 1.66-mile St. Paul Pass Tunnel. While primarily a gravel/mountain bike trail, it's a memorable ride. For a historical perspective, the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes offers scenic views tracing the historic Mullan Road.

Yes, Mullan has a rich history. The eastern trailhead of the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is near the Captain John Mullan Museum, which showcases the town's mining history and the Mullan Road. The Mullan Road Historic Site also offers an interpretive hiking trail nearby.

Parking is generally available at the trailheads for major routes. For instance, the eastern trailhead of the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes in Mullan typically has parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for precise parking information.

While many routes are point-to-point, especially the rail-trails, you can create loop experiences by combining sections of trails with local roads. Some komoot routes, like "Roadbike loop from Gortaheran" or "Joey's Bar loop from Gortaheran", offer circular options, though these may involve varying terrain.

The Route of the Hiawatha is a 15-mile downhill trail famous for its tunnels and trestles. It's generally suitable for gravel bikes. Shuttle services are available to transport riders and their bikes back to the top. For more details, you can visit Visit Spokane or Visit Montana.

Mullan and nearby towns like Wallace, which is accessible via the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, offer various cafes, pubs, and restaurants where cyclists can stop for refreshments. It's advisable to carry water and snacks, especially on longer or more remote sections of trails.

Yes, the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is a fully paved rail-trail, making it perfectly suitable for road bikes. It offers a smooth and scenic ride through the Idaho Panhandle.