The best road cycling routes in Mohave County

Embark on an easy road cycling journey around Lake Havasu, covering 21.1 miles (34.0 km) with a manageable 649 feet (198 metres) of elevation gain. This loop, designed for the Olympic Distance Triathlon, offers picturesque views of the lake and the Arizona landscape. You will cycle along London Bridge Road, catching glimpses of the iconic London Bridge, and experience rolling sections with some short, steep climbs in the Crystal Beach residential area, all under clear blue skies. Expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 37 minutes.

To begin your ride, parking is typically available at the south state park entry/exit, which also serves as the starting point for the loop. Be aware that the road surfaces can be rough in places, with sections of sun-baked, cracked asphalt, and sand may occasionally blow onto the road. Always check local conditions before you head out, especially concerning weather, to ensure a safe and enjoyable road cycling experience.

This route is notable for its connection to the Olympic Distance Triathlon, allowing you to experience a course used by athletes. As you reach some of the higher points, you will be rewarded with panoramic vistas that stretch across Lake Havasu and into California. The blend of scenic beauty and a well-defined course makes this a distinctive ride in the region.

If you're after a road cycling route that delivers big on views without demanding too much, the Historic Railroad Trail Loop is a fantastic choice. You'll ride along an old railroad bed, enjoying continuous panoramic vistas of Lake Mead and Boulder Basin, all while passing through five impressive historic tunnels. The trail's surface is mostly hard-packed gravel, making for a smooth ride through the desert landscape, where you might even spot bighorn sheep.

Planning your visit means keeping the desert heat in mind; this trail is within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, so an entrance fee is usually required. To avoid the scorching summer temperatures, aim for cooler morning or evening rides, or consider visiting outside of peak summer. Always bring plenty of water, as shade is scarce, especially at the start of the route.

This moderate 11.1-mile (17.9 km) loop, with 1245 feet (379 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete, making it accessible for most skill levels. The route's historical significance, as it once transported materials for the Hoover Dam, adds an extra layer of interest to the stunning natural scenery and the impressive views of the Hoover Dam and the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure around Lake Havasu City and its island, offering continuous views of the sparkling lake and distant desert mountains. This 24.6-mile (39.6 km) loop, with a total elevation gain of 1149 feet (350 metres), guides you past the iconic London Bridge and a replica lighthouse. You can expect a smooth ride, especially on the recently resurfaced 3.6-mile island section. The route is designed for racebike enthusiasts and typically takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete, providing a comfortable yet engaging experience. You'll enjoy the unique atmosphere of cycling an island trail with urban and natural scenery blending seamlessly.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with convenient parking options available. You can start your journey from the trailhead located at the intersection of McCulloch Boulevard and Beachcomber Boulevard. Additional parking can also be found at various parks and marinas situated along the route. For your safety and the safety of others, remember that cyclists are required to travel the island loop in a clockwise direction. This ensures a consistent flow and helps prevent head-on encounters on the narrower sections.

This trail stands out for its distinctive island setting, a rare feature for a road cycling route. The presence of the historic London Bridge, relocated and rebuilt here, adds a unique cultural landmark to your ride. Beyond the bridge, the route showcases the blend of desert landscape with the expansive Lake Havasu, creating a scenic backdrop. It's an excellent option if you're looking for a well-maintained path that combines natural beauty with interesting man-made attractions.

Embark on the Kingman to Oatman via Route 66, a difficult racebike route that plunges you into Arizona's iconic desert landscape. This challenging ride covers 57.3 miles (92.2 km) and demands a significant 3600 feet (1097 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 14 minutes. You will experience a dramatic shift from flat terrain to a winding ascent through the Black Mountains, offering expansive vistas and unique rock formations as you climb towards Sitgreaves Pass.

Planning your ride requires careful consideration due to the route's demanding nature. The last 15 miles into Oatman are particularly challenging, featuring narrow, winding roads, steep grades, and often a lack of shoulder. Exercise extreme caution, as drivers may have difficulty seeing cyclists on this stretch. The ascent and descent of Sitgreaves Pass demand considerable physical exertion, so ensure you are well-prepared for a strenuous effort.

This route is a journey through a historic and scenic section of America's famous Mother Road. As you crest Sitgreaves Pass, you can enjoy views stretching across three different states before descending into the charming and historic Oatman Ghost Town. Here, you will find yourself amidst the town's famous wild burros, adding a unique touch to the end of your challenging desert adventure.

Embark on a moderate road cycling journey from Kingman to the iconic Hackberry General Store, covering 55.6 miles (89.6 km) with an elevation gain of 1006 feet (307 metres). This route takes you through the raw beauty of the Arizona desert, offering expansive views of mountains and unique rock formations. As you pedal, you'll encounter a landscape dotted with vintage motels, classic signs, and other relics that transport you back to the golden age of Route 66. The ride culminates at the Hackberry General Store, a famous museum-store filled with memorabilia, vintage gas pumps, and classic cars, providing a tangible connection to the Mother Road's storied past. Expect to complete this adventure in about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

When planning your ride, you'll find that this segment of Historic Route 66 is primarily a wide, two-lane highway, generally featuring a shoulder suitable for road cycling. Traffic is usually light, contributing to a pleasant experience. It's wise to consider parking options in Kingman before you begin your journey. Be aware that winds can be a significant factor along this high-altitude route, often blowing from west to east, so check the forecast before you set out.

This route offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in historic Americana and the enduring legacy of the Mother Road. The Hackberry General Store isn't just a destination; it's a living museum, showcasing the vibrant history of Route 66 through its extensive collection of memorabilia. This journey provides a distinct blend of scenic desert cycling and a deep dive into American cultural heritage, making it a notable experience for any road cyclist.

Embark on the Kingman to Hualapai Mountain Park climb, a challenging road cycling route that takes you from the desert floor to cooler mountain air. This difficult ride covers 26.5 miles (42.7 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 3274 feet (998 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 28 minutes. As you ascend, you will notice the landscape transform from arid desert chaparral to lush Pinyon Pine, Juniper, and Oak forests, eventually leading to towering Ponderosa Pine and Gambel Oak at higher elevations.

When planning your ride, be aware that the roadway is well-paved but lacks a dedicated shoulder for cyclists. Traffic is usually light to moderate at the start of the climb, becoming even lighter as you gain altitude. This route is best enjoyed during cooler parts of the day or year, given the desert starting point. Remember to carry enough water and supplies for the duration of this demanding ascent.

This climb offers more than just a physical challenge; it provides expansive panoramic views of the desert basin below, stretching out to the distant Cerbat Mountains. Your destination, Hualapai Mountain Park, is Mohave County's oldest park, offering a unique natural environment. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as deer and elk, especially as you approach the park boundaries.

This racebike route takes you on a scenic journey from Colorado City to the unique Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. You will cycle through classic desert landscapes, featuring vast open spaces, striking red rock formations, and scattered juniper and piñon pine trees. The 38.5-mile (62.0 km) ride, with its moderate difficulty and 1155 feet (352 metres) of elevation gain, offers a distinct visual shift as you approach the destination, where the landscape transforms into a sea of vibrant red sand.

Plan for a ride lasting around 2 hours and 33 minutes, but be prepared for potential strong winds and extreme temperatures, especially if you are cycling during the summer months. While state highways are generally paved, some remote sections might have variable pavement quality. Also, be aware that the final approach to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park on the county road could include unpaved sections with loose sand, and services are minimal along these stretches.

The Coral Pink Sand Dunes are particularly notable for their distinctive hue, which comes from iron oxide present in the Navajo sandstone. Wind erosion has sculpted these dunes into a truly unique natural wonder, making this route a memorable experience. This journey offers a great way to explore the Arizona Strip and southern Utah, culminating in a visit to one of the region's most iconic geological features.

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure from Lake Havasu City to Cattail Cove State Park, covering 32.6 miles (52.5 km) with an elevation gain of 1446 feet (441 metres). This route offers a scenic ride that takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you'll experience sweeping views of Lake Havasu and the surrounding mountains, especially along Arizona Highway 95, with the iconic London Bridge visible near your starting point.

When planning your ride, be aware that Arizona Highway 95 is a main thoroughfare and can experience heavy traffic, particularly on weekends, so exercise caution. The best time to tackle this route is between October and April, when the desert temperatures are most favorable for outdoor activities. You can typically find parking in Lake Havasu City close to the beginning of the route.

This route stands out for its unique blend of desert landscape and vast lake vistas, culminating at Cattail Cove State Park, which provides picturesque lake views and low desert hills. The journey offers a distinct perspective of the region, showcasing both the developed areas around Lake Havasu City and the natural beauty of the Arizona desert.

The Willow Beach to Temple Bar Marina road cycling route offers a deep dive into the rugged beauty of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. You'll pedal through dramatic desert landscapes, encountering colorful rock formations and expansive views that stretch to the horizon. Starting near Willow Beach in the scenic Black Canyon, the route eventually leads you to Temple Bar, where a distinctive rock formation overlooks the vastness of Lake Mead.

This is a difficult 70.0-mile (112.6 km) ride with a substantial 4290 feet (1307 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 6 hours and 20 minutes. It's best suited for experienced cyclists with excellent fitness who are prepared for a demanding day. Be sure to carry ample water, as remote sections mean limited access to supplies, and prepare for potential temperature extremes.

This route takes you through the United States' first national recreation area, known for its diverse natural environment. While much of the surface is paved, some segments can be unpaved and difficult, adding to the challenge. E-bikes are allowed on park roads, providing an option to tackle the significant elevation, and amenities like camping and a restaurant await at Temple Bar Marina.